A Brief History of Women in Brewing

Lost in the stereotype of the male dominated brewing industry is the fact that women were the original brewers of beer. Women were concocting fine beverages made from barley, fruit, and herbs in the ancient civilization of Sumer back in 1800 BC according to the Pink Boot Society, and they were well respected for their craft. Beer was often considered the beverage of the Gods and it was even consumed through a straw made from precious metals, certainly this was not a job for amateurs.
Throughout the Middle Ages, women were heavily involved in the brewing process in England. They not only brewed the beer, but also sold it. Beer was consumed by everyone including children as it was far safer than drinking water, making this trade a necessity. Eventually, around 1600, men took over due to beer becoming a commercial trade. Here in the United States women took to brewing in the home long before it was industrialized and much like in Europe, the entire family consumed it. Any homebrewer would know that to brew on top of the many daily chores of that time would have been a major accomplishment. Today, many women are heavily involved in homebrewing clubs across the country and are helping to spearhead the Craft Beer movement. One notable local example is Director of Quality Assurance at Summit Brewing Gerry Kutelski who is a 40-year veteran of the brewing industry. Summit was at the forefront of the Craft Beer movement locally as they have been brewing in St. Paul since 1986. One of the best Craft Beer radio shows in the country is hosted by Lisa Morrison (Portland, Oregon) who is also the author of the book Craft Beers of the Pacific Northwest. Lisa's show is outstanding and she's definitely worth following on Twitter @Beer_Goddess. Carol Stoudt was the first female brewmaster since prohibition and her brewery—based in Adamstown, Pennsylvania—is celebrating 25 years of business this year. The list could go on and on but the point is, despite what you've read about the brewing industry, it's time to give credit where it is due. Respect is in order for the original brewers: Women. Cheers!