Brewing Herstory: The Untold Contributions of Women in Beer
Women have brewed beer throughout most of human history. Their role as family and village brewer lasted for hundreds of thousands of years--through the earliest days of Mesopotamian civilization, the reign of Cleopatra, the witch trials of Medieval and Renaissance Europe, and the settling of colonial America.
Ever wondered about the hidden history of women in brewing? In this episode of 'New Books in Drugs, Addiction and Recovery', host Rebecca Buchanan chats with Tara Nurin about her fascinating book, 'A Woman's Place is in the Brewhouse: A Forgotten History of Alewives, Brewsters, Witches, and CEOs'. Nurin takes us on a journey from ancient Egypt to colonial America, revealing how women were the original brewers, crafting beer for their families and communities.
Their roles, however, have often been overshadowed by politics, religion, and capitalism, which pushed them out as the industry grew profitable. Nurin's book isn't just about looking back; it's also about celebrating the present. She highlights women like Carol Stoudt, a pioneering brewer in the 1980s, and Rosemary Serto, who continues to make waves in the industry. These stories are not just inspiring but also a call to action for greater inclusivity.
Nurin emphasizes the importance of collaboration, sharing a heartwarming story of a husband and wife team who run a brewery together, each appreciating the other's hard work. The episode also tackles pressing issues like the lack of diversity in craft brewing. With only about 1% of craft breweries owned by black individuals, Nurin underscores the efforts of organizations like Women of the Bevolution, which support women of color and those who have faced trauma in the industry.
This episode is a treasure trove of stories and insights that shine a light on the often-overlooked contributions of women in brewing. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or someone interested in gender equality, you'll find plenty to ponder and appreciate.