<

"Making Beverages in Early America" Class with Tony Shahan

  • March 20, 2026 6:00 PM

  • Historic Rock Ford

    881 Rockford Road
    Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17602
Ticket Price $32.55-$43.06 Register Now
Description

Historic Rock Ford welcomes Tony Shahan of Flavors of History as he presents a class on “Making Beverages in Early America.” 

“'One bowl more and then” was a common phrase in early America that reflected the heavy consumption of alcohol. Where did all of these beverages come from? Follow the presenter's personal experience brewing beer in an 18th century farmhouse, an 1803 brewery, and an 1850 German brewery. Then learn about his experience working in George Washington's Distillery at Mt. Vernon. Through documentary research and hands-on experience, discover the equipment and techniques used for brewing and distilling in early America. This will be paired with a tasting of two 18th century beverage samples. This program also includes light complimentary refreshments. 

This program will be held in the Langmuir Education Room on the first floor of the Rock Ford Barn.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER:  During his over 38 years working in museums, Tony Shahan has worked to ensure that the stories of our shared past remain alive and accessible. He also developed a passion for historic food and beverage. He mostly works with 17th and 18th century receipts but has recreated beverages and dishes from ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, Medieval Europe, and the 19th century. His specialty has become fundraising dinners featuring historic food and drinks. Tony regularly creates historic drinks during classes and for curated tastings.

 

Date & Time

Fri, Mar 20, 2026 6:00 PM

Venue Details

Historic Rock Ford

881 Rockford Road
Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17602 Historic Rock Ford
Rock Ford Foundation

Historic Rock Ford is comprised of the circa 1794 General Edward Hand Mansion and the John J. Snyder, Jr. Gallery of Early Lancaster County Decorative Arts. Our historic site is situated on 33 acres of gardens, woods and grounds surrounded by Lancaster County Central Park located in the southeast corner of Lancaster City.  This remarkable estate offers visitors the opportunity to encounter the outstanding original late-Georgian style architecture of the Hand Mansion, to experience its rooms furnished in exquisite period style while, in the Snyder Gallery, to explore a nationally recognized collection of Lancaster County decorative arts dating from circa 1760 to 1820 including furniture, portraiture, long rifles, tall case clocks, silver, and much more. 


Find more Rock Ford Foundation Events