2025 Fall Speaker Series | The American Revolution Wasn’t Fueled by Water! Rum, Cider, and the Punch of Independence

How did mugs of ale and fiery conversation in smoky taprooms help ignite the birth of a nation? The bottle says it all: “Samuel Adams, Brewer, Patriot.” While “Sam the Maltster” wasn’t particularly business savvy, his role in stirring the spirit of revolution was undeniable. As gathering spots for Patriots, merchants, laborers, and spies alike, taverns served as the unofficial town halls of the American Revolution. Join Dr. Matt Warshauer, professor of history at Central CT State University, for an intriguing exploration of how the American Revolution was plotted in taverns.

About the Speaker

Matt Warshauer is a professor of history at Central Connecticut State University, where he received his bachelors in American Studies. Fascinated by what he calls “the American paradox,” the ever-challenging conundrum between the nation’s founding document and the difficulties of pursuing essential ideas of freedom, Warshauer pursued an MA and PhD at Saint Louis University. He has spent the last 30 years exploring the great American experiment in self-government. The author of six books and countless articles and reviews, Warshauer has written extensively on Andrew Jackson, slavery and the Civil War, and, most recently, 9/11 and how the most important and devastating event of the 21st century has impacted the world in which we live.  Creating and Failing the 9/11 Generation: The Real Story of September 11 was just released from Routledge Press. He is currently studying the Declaration of Independence and the Revolutionary War era, as the 250^th anniversary allows the nation to reflect on the origins and meaning of America. With a unique ability to draw in his audience, Warshauer guides listeners through the complexities of American political and constitutional history so that we can all think more clearly and gain a better of understanding of our role as citizens.

About the 2025 Fall Speaker Series – At the Tavern

Join the Fairfield Museum for a series inspired by our new exhibition Eat, Drink, and Start a Revolution! Fairfield’s Taverns. Colonial taverns were the center of social and political life throughout New England. The series explores popular food and drink served in taverns while showcasing taverns as vital community hubs. Co-sponsored by Keeler Tavern Museum and History Center.

Additional Lectures in the Series:

November 16 | The Flowing Bowl: A History of Punch | Catherine Prescott

November 23 | A Taste of the New England Tavern | Keith Stavely & Kathleen Fitzgerald

Light refreshments provided. Registration is required. Per talk: $15 for Members, $20 for Non-Members

Ticketing Policy

• No refunds will be given unless the program is cancelled by the Fairfield Museum.
• We do not pro-rate fees for missed days of the series.