Wisconsin Historic Taverns & Bars

How did Wisconsin get its reputation for brewing? Join us for a “tipsy” history lesson when the Marathon County Historical Society presents “Wisconsin Historic Taverns and Bars,” another topic in our History Speaks series, at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 6, at the Woodson History Center, 410 McIndoe St., Wausau. The speaker is Jim Draeger, author of “Bottoms Up: A Toast to Wisconsin’s Historic Bars & Breweries.” He has worked in the field of historic preservation and architecture at the Wisconsin Historical Society for more than 20 years. Beginning with inns and saloons, Draeger will explore the rise of taverns and breweries, the effects of temperance and Prohibition, and attitudes about gender, ethnicity, and morality. He’ll trace the development of the megabreweries, dominance of the giants, and the emergence of microbreweries. Learn the story of how Wisconsin came to dominate brewing, and the place that bars and beer hold in our social and cultural history. There is no admission fee for the April 6 presentation by Jim Draeger; however, donations are appreciated. Registration is not required. The Historical Society is grateful to Janke Book Store and to Compass Properties for their sponsorship of the History Speaks series. This presentation will preview the Historical Society’s May fundraiser, the Westside Wausau Historic Tavern Tour on May 19. Buses will take patrons to hear costumed storytellers recount tales from each tavern on the route. Watch for details about ticket prices, times and locations on the Historical Society website and Facebook page.