Beer was the cornerstone of early civilization. It gave us writing, built the pyramids, and was eventually a cultural anchor in colonial America. Beer led us to agriculture, hygiene and medicine, and helped define social standards. Tastes and methods may have changed, but beer’s important social role has remained for thousands of years. This panel of experts in the history, archaeology, science, and visual culture of ancient, medieval, and colonial brewing will not only explore the age-old insights beer can provide, but also how ancient beer styles have been resurrected for the modern beer community.

With Frank Clark (Colonial Williamsburg), Lucas Livingston (Art Institute of Chicago), Randy Mosher, Travis Rupp (University of Colorado, Boulder), and Dr. Ryan Williams (Field Museum).

In-person at the Field Museum.