After 66 days at sea, the Pilgrims arrived at Cape Cod on November 11, 1620. Originally bound for the Hudson River, they changed course due to poor weather and dwindling rations. Among their most critical provisions was beer, a staple of early brewing traditions.
Beer proved to be a better travel companion than water. Stored in wooden barrels, water quickly became contaminated, while beer’s brewing process kept it safe to drink. This made it essential for long voyages, ensuring hydration without the risks of spoiled water.
Beer or Cider at the First Thanksgiving?
A year later, William Bradford and the Pilgrims gathered with the Wampanoag tribe to celebrate the first Thanksgiving. Historians debate what they drank during the feast. Some argue that beer was on the menu, but evidence suggests that limited supplies made hard cider the more likely beverage.
The Wampanoag, already familiar with local resources, likely introduced the Pilgrims to ingredients like corn, which could have been used in brewing. However, several species of native apples grew in Massachusetts, making cider a more accessible option.
The First Colonial Brewery and Brewing Traditions
Hard cider was a familiar drink to the English settlers, and it remained a staple long after Thanksgiving. However, it wasn’t until 1636—16 years later—that the first brewery opened. Established by Captain Robert Sedgwick, it marked the beginning of America’s brewing traditions.
While records don’t show when Sedgwick’s brewery closed, it was the first of many craft breweries that followed. These pioneers played a key role in keeping settlers hydrated and even helped sailors stay safe at sea!
