Venture into the spirited side of American history with a lively lecture exploring boozy folklore associated with U.S. presidents and political powerbrokers. From George Washington’s distillery at Mount Vernon to Andrew Jackson’s raucous inaugural celebration, and FDR’s Oval Office happy hours to JFK’s famous daiquiris, discover how alcohol and the culture around it have intersected with American politics for more than two centuries.

Cheers to the Chief! will feature samples of four different cocktails favored by past U.S. presidents and politicians: Harry Truman’s Old Fashioned, John F. Kennedy’s Daiquiri, the classic Manhattan (said to have been invented to honor the election of New York Governor Samuel Tilden in 1874), and the Gin Rickey, which is a style of drink invented in Washington DC in the late 19th century by a lobbyist, Colonel Joe Rickey. Samples are included with admission.

Raise a glass with Phil Greene, co-founder of the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans, to an unforgettable evening of history, lore, and American cocktail culture.

Philip Greene is an award-winning attorney, historian, and writer. As a co-founder of the Museum of the American Cocktail in New Orleans, he has presented at food and drink events worldwide. Phil is the author of five books, including his most recent, SOURS: A History of the World’s Most Storied Cocktail. All five titles will be available for purchase at the program.

History Happy Hour is a monthly evening program featuring presentations by historians, authors, and subject-matter experts on a wide variety of historical and cultural topics. Light refreshments will be served. VIP tables are served with refreshments and complementary sparkling water.