Black History Month
How black bartenders shaped the history of cocktails
It’s taken us a few days to decide on a fitting subject for this month’s blog. But we knew it had to be in honour of Black History Month. Luckily during our research we found a few articles highlighting some influential, historical bartenders.
The history of Black bartenders in the United States is a rich and complex story that reflects the broader struggles and achievements of African Americans across the country. Black bartenders have played a significant role in shaping cocktail culture, overcoming racial barriers, and contributing to the evolution of mixology, but are so often hidden in the footnotes. A regular problem, but one which feels particularly prominent in bartending.
During the early 19th century, the American bar scene was heavily segregated, with Black individuals often excluded from bartending roles in white-owned establishments. However, some free Black individuals managed to establish their own taverns and bars, serving both Black and white patrons. These early Black bartenders faced challenges and discrimination but laid the groundwork for future generations.
One prominent figure in the history of Black bartenders is Tom Bullock, who in 1917 became the first Black author to publish a cocktail recipe book, titled "The Ideal Bartender." Bullock's book offered a wide range of recipes and demonstrated that Black mixologists had the knowledge and skill to excel in their craft.
The Prohibition era presented both opportunities and challenges alike for Black bartenders. While the ban on alcohol forced many bars to close, some Black-owned speakeasies thrived, serving as important social hubs for the Black community. These establishments played a pivotal role in the Harlem Renaissance, a cultural movement that celebrated Black art, music, and literature.
Despite the end of Prohibition, racial discrimination continued to hinder the progress of Black bartenders. Many had to navigate restrictive employment practices and a lack of access to training opportunities. However, some persevered and made significant contributions to the cocktail industry. Such as John Dabney, who despite being born a slave, went on to make cocktails for Edward VII. Or Richard Francis, the bartender for US Senate who managed to befriend various racist politicians due to his skill.
The history of Black bartenders is a testament to the resilience, creativity, and determination of African Americans in the face of adversity, and their influence on the world of cocktails is undeniable.
If you’d like to read more in depth into the fascinating history of black bartenders we highly recommend the following articles and books;
Tom Bullock and the Forgotten Legacy of African American Bartenders - PUNCH (punchdrink.com)
The History of Black Bartenders | SevenFifty Daily
Black Mixcellence by Tamika Hall
The Ideal Bartender by Tom Bullock (reprinted by Cocktail Kingdom)
