More Shipwrecks, Famous Dead People and Ghosts in Mystic Seafarer’s Trail

Mystic author Lisa Saunders has revised her travel memoir, Mystic Seafarer’s Trail: Journey to 7 Wonders, Titanic’s Shoes, and Amelia Earhart’s Secret Wedding, to include more shipwrecks off Watch Hill, famous dead people such as the headless major at Fort Griswold, and local celebrities like Ernie the Ledge Light Ghost.


Saunders will present her latest historical findings at the Stonington Free Library on February 6.

Thursday, Feb 6, 2014, Noon
Lisa Saunders and her memoir Mystic Seafarer’s Trail

“Books Sandwiched In” (bring a sandwich; tea & coffee are provided)
Stonington Free Library
20 High Street, Stonington, CT 06378    

 

New chapters in the humorous and historical memoir, Mystic Seafarer’s Trail: Journey to 7 Wonders, Titanic’s Shoes, and Amelia Earhart’s Secret Wedding, include how a beer shortage affected New England’s history and scary ghost stories from the Daniel Packer Inne and Denison Homestead. She will also discuss the mysterious tomb and calendar chambers hidden in Groton’s Gungywamp site and her quest to turn her Mystic Stein Hoist win into a national one at Boston’s Samuel Adams Brewery. Although the updated Mystic Seafarer’s Trail  now has a different conclusion, it still begins: “Shortly after stepping out of my new home with my hound for our first stroll through the historic seacoast village of Mystic, a woman pulled over in her van and yelled, ‘Excuse me.’ Assuming she was a tourist wanting directions to Mystic Pizza or some other attraction, I wasn't prepared for what she really wanted to know: ‘Do you realize the back of your skirt is tucked into your underwear?’”

 

Lisa Saunders will be on hand afterwards to answer questions and autograph books. For more information, contact Susan Martin, Programs, Stonington Free Library at:  susanpdcm@gmail.com, 860.535.0658, or visit:  www.stoningtonfreelibrary.org

 

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About the Presenter: Lisa Saunders of Mystic is an award-winning writer, TV host, part-time history interpreter at Mystic Seaport and member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. A graduate of Cornell University, she is the author of several books and presents writing workshops for children and adults.  Visit Lisa at: www.authorlisasaunders.com.

 

Reviews (critics and readers)

 

 

“You will laugh out loud at Lisa’s adventures in this part travel guide, part historical reference and completely hilarious tale.” Bree Shirvell, Editor, Stonington-Mystic Patch

 

“Author Lisa Saunders has mastered the art/science/gift of writer-reader communication. She’s not writing at you; she’s talking to you…no holds barred. Her frequently disarming candor evokes reader reactions ranging from chuckle to head-shaking laughter.“ George Nammack, Long Island Boating World

 

“With a keen, self-deprecating wit, Saunders tells the tale of each of the 7 Wonders [of Mystic], beginning with Wonder #1, the whaleship Charles W. Morgan.” Windcheck magazine

 

“Lisa Saunders has written an engaging and solidly researched narrative which should capture the attention of all who are interested in early New England history and the traditions of the sea that were one of its foundations.” David S. Martin, Ph.D., Professor/Dean Emeritus, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC

 

“Mystic Seafarer's Trail is full of local history, adventure, misadventure, and laughs.  Lisa Saunders has thought long and hard about the historic homes, landmarks, graveyards, and dead people of Mystic, Connecticut.  As a newbie in an old seaside town, Lisa sets out to explore what life was, is, and will be (for her) in Mystic.  She brings with her basset/beagle hound, Bailey, and a unique, thoughtful, and - often - quite humorous perspective. As you walk the streets of this small seaside town with Lisa and you get to know her, you find yourself interested, engaged, and (seriously) laughing out loud. This book is perfect for Mystic area locals, history buffs (she's done her research), sightseers, and those who could use a good laugh.  And, if they ever make the "Mystic Seafarer's Trail - The Movie," Lisa should definitely be in it. (If you've read the book, you know what I mean ;-). If you live in, or are traveling to the Mystic, Connecticut area, this book is for you.” TripAdvisor (Suzanne Doukas Niermeyer)

 

"Hi Lisa - your book was a big hit at our son's wedding!  I sent the book out early so guests could read it while traveling to Mystic and everyone said it made their trip much more interesting." K.S.

 

“I found Lisa’s anticipation of her sailing adventure just plain entertaining and could relate to her internal dialogue, misgivings, and somewhat grandiose fantasies. She is a person worth spending time with.” Ann Kuehner, LCSW

 

“I laughed out loud on a number of occasions. It’s interesting, humorous and touching.” Glenn Gordinier, author of Surfing Cold Water: A New Englander's Off-Season Obsession

 

“This book is a splendid way to tie Mystic's history to life today—a bridge from the past to the present—for any age.” Lou Allyn, Masons Island

 

“An historical—and sometimes hysterical—look at Mystic. I can’t wait to visit!” Marianne Greiner, Illustrator, New York

 

“Entertaining, witty, informative—and cute! It covers a range of topics from personal loss to finding life, history and new friends.” Kristin Hartnett, Executive Director, Laughworks, Mystic, Connecticut

 

“What a read—fascinating!” Kathleen Poole, former Chesapeake Bay waterwoman

 

 

REVIEWS ON AMAZON:

 

“If you're a native of coastal CT or even just love to go there on vacation (or want to), the Mystic Seafarer's Trail is a humorous and informational guide to the area through the eyes of local author Lisa Saunders and her dog Bailey. Through mishaps like a skirt being tucked into underwear and a sailing trip gone awry, you get a taste of the area and will laugh along the way. I would highly recommend for fans of Bill Bryson and Jenny Lawson, or people looking for a good read.” Jackie T.

 

“Mystic Seafarer's Trail is an adventure that takes you through a journey in a wonderful and humorous way. The author does an amazing job in making this book a very addicting book to read that truly I did not want to put down. It was a great journey of which I laughed, cried, and captured new meaning into my own life.” Kendra M.

 

“This author has a way of making even the most routine activities of life, like walking her dog, into a search for adventure. With her slightly self-deprecatory sense of humor, the author, a newcomer to Mystic, learns the local etiquette as well as the lore and legends of this seaside town. Readers will learn about a wide variety of topics ranging from shipwrecks to genealogy to how to become an extra in a movie. You will enjoy the author's friendly tone as she explores the history of the region and tries to create a little history of her own. Enjoyable and informative read.” ThatzRight

 

“So enjoyed reading this book--Lisa has a great way of storytelling--can hardly wait to visit Mystic and see where all of these adventures took place :)”  Marti Perhach

 

“It is really amazing to be reading a book that is written about the area in which I live. Gained a lot of knowledge about the history of the locations.” Lorraine M Sanborn

 

“Mystic Seafarer's Trail is funny, fun and informative. Funny because Lisa Saunders' adventures (real and imagined) made me smile and yes laugh! Fun because the author captured the spirit that historians experience as they undertake their adventures of discovery. Fun because the serendipity of finding "cousins" in a cemetery is not lost on any researcher. Informative? Well that is obvious. I learned a lot about Mystic and Lisa - and it was all interesting. I can't wait to visit Mystic again - and walk the Seafarer's Trail!” Marjory

 

“Settling into a new town is never easy but for Lisa Saunders and her hound Bailey the process is more adventure than nesting. From the very first page to the last you'll laugh out loud. And anyone with a fondness of Mystic, Conn, will appreciate the tour of the tiny village and the history Saunders was able to uncover. Saunders has created a hilarious story that is part travel guide, part memoir and part historical reference.” Bridget Shirvell

 

“Interesting read makes you think and wonder. drift into the past and travel with the sea folk who take their chances to better their future, no knowing what is ahead.” A. White "world traveler" (kerrville, Texas)

 

“Well written and very interesting stories. I enjoyed how she tied all the stories together and yet each one was different.” Judy H.

 

“This book was a wonderful read. I felt as if I was on some of the adventures that Lisa wrote about. Her chapters pertaining to her "voyage at sea" was very entertaining and funny. As I read this book, it really sparked an interest to visit Mystic, CT, and surrounding area someday and venture to all of the places mentioned within the book. Lisa has a great sense of humor and I found myself laughing out loud many times. I have enjoyed Lisa's previous books and look forward to her next literary adventure. Another great book from Lisa Saunders!” Daniel Elser (Dallas TX USA) -

 

“I found out through reading this that the author & I are related! This was a fun, fact-filled book. Love the history of this area.”  Michele Rolfe "Wolfpug" (Bridgeport, NY USA):

 

Hound Bailey & Cindy Modzelewski's White Wine Chicken Chili

Pulling over on High Street in Mystic, Conn., to enjoy the view of Mystic River, I couldn't resist taking a photo of my kayaking friend Cindy snuggling with my beagle/basset hound, Bailey.
Cindy Modzelewski, who is a featured kayaker in my travel memoir, Mystic Seafarer's Trail, agreed to share one of her recipes:

White Wine Chicken Chili 

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 1/2 c chopped onion
3 cloves garlic finely chopped
2 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp powdered ginger
1 1/2 c chicken broth
1/2 cup dry white wine
1 bay leaf broken in half
2 cups cooked chicken shredded
2 cups cooked, drained white beans
1 1/2 c grated Monterey Jack Cheese
Ingredients for 4 servings. Put all ingredients in crock pot on low for 6 hrs. Garnishes: diced tomatoes, chopped scallions, sliced black olives.

Enjoy!

Beer, Scurvy and the Mayflower Pilgrims

Beer—Don’t Leave Home Without It

by Lisa Saunders.

If you asked the Pilgrims what they valued most on their Mayflower journey to New England, hands down they’d tell you beer. It was considered part of a healthy diet and a trusted source of water--even the children drank it. Long after they reached the slimy bottoms of their water casks during the 66-day sail across the Atlantic, their beer remained drinkable.

But not all beer is created equal for a long voyage—some styles stay fresher longer, depending on the brewing process. Patrick Bailey, Import Craft Manager, F & F Distributors, said, “There is no definitive answer to what style of beer the pilgrims were drinking.  However, they came over prior to the creation of Porters or IPAs.  They were probably drinking cask ale, which featured an English Bitter in it. This was the most popular beer at the time that could last the journey.”

The Mayflower passengers were desperate to land when their beer supply ran low. Although it is unclear if they put a vitamin C containing plant such as pine needles in their beer, when they began rationing it, they saw the first signs of scurvy -- bleeding gums, loosening teeth and bad breath that, according to Dr. Lee McDowell, author of Vitamin History, the early years, “was an intolerable stench of putrefaction.” A professor and cruise lecturer, McDowell amuses his audience by smelling their breath, checking for signs of scurvy. He warns them they can begin suffering from it in as little as six weeks, “though generally it takes 10-12 weeks for scurvy to develop.” One recommended treatment for scurvy in the early 1500s was to rinse one’s mouth in urine.

According to McDowell, scurvy led to the majority of deaths among the Mayflower passengers their first 1620-1621 winter in New England when half of the 102 died. As scurvy progressed, the settlers become too weak to walk. “With scurvy, there is weakening of collagenous structures in bones, cartilage, teeth and connective tissue; swollen bleeding gums, with loss of teeth; fatigue and lethargy; rheumatic pain in legs; and degeneration of muscles and skin hemorrhaging. Old healed wounds and scars can suddenly break open, and fresh wounds and sores show no tendency to heal.” Some of the Mayflower deaths were a direct result of scurvy, “while other deaths may have resulted from an indirect effect of scurvy, with the lack of vitamin C resulting in a lower resistance and greater susceptibility to disease organisms (e.g. pneumonia).”

Seafarers have suffered from scurvy throughout the ages. McDowell said, “Many more sailors in the world’s navies were lost to scurvy than in battle, and more explorers died of it than from any other cause. From lacking sufficient access to fresh fruits and vegetables, it is estimated that over a million seamen died from scurvy during the 17^th and 18^th centuries.”  In 1749, an onboard experiment showed that oranges and lemons cured scurvy, but it was not until the late 1700s that the British navy required ships to carry citrus juice.

 

It was the high death rate of British seaman that led to one of the causes of the War of 1812. Often finding themselves short of able-bodied crew as a result of scurvy, the British would seize Americans off shore to serve in the Royal Navy. One Mystic resident forced to serve as a seaman against his will was Jeremiah Holmes. Escaping after three years, Holmes later joined other local militia volunteers in defeating the British at the Battle of Stonington.

 

One scurvy prevention drink was thought to be spruce beer, which was made by adding spruce twigs and needles to the brew. Used to keep scurvy away from the time of the Vikings, even George Washington, a brewer himself, ensured the Continental Army drank beer infused with the tips of spruce trees. Dr. McDowell cautions, “There would be some question as to how much vitamin C the drink would contain as fermentation, heating and drying all would result in some destruction of the vitamin.  However, if the twigs and needles were put in the beer, or whatever beverage, after fermentation and/or heating, then the drink would be a good source of vitamin C.”

Spruce beer is still being brewed today for its unique flavor. Beer distributor Patrick Bailey said, “There are some craft brewers experimenting with them. For generations, spruce has been used as a substitute for hops. Spruce gives off a piney resinous flavor, which is a big flavor profile in many Northwest Hops.”

Some home brewers such Alex Buckley, a field service engineer for a medical device company, use blue spruce needles as a bittering agent. “I add the needles to the boil with the hops to bring out a more citrus and pine flavor."

But spruce beer isn’t for everyone. Dr. Bradley Saunders, a physical therapist who has tasted 900 types of beer from all over the world, said, “Apparently, I have allergies to pine—spruce beer caused my face to swell up.”

Learn more about the Mayflower, scurvy and beer and Lisa's travel memoir, Mystic Seafarer's Trail.

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First published as an article in: Jan 2014: Beer--Don't Leave Home Without It (pg 30-31)

Travel Memoir, Mystic Seafarer’s Trail, Revised

Travel Memoir, Mystic Seafarer’s Trail, Revised

 

Includes More Shipwrecks, Famous Dead People and Ernie the Ledge Light Ghost

 

Mystic, CT—Mystic author Lisa Saunders has revised her travel memoir, Mystic Seafarer’s Trail, to include more shipwrecks off Watch Hill, famous dead people such as the missing headless major at Fort Griswold, and area ghosts including Ernie the Ledge Light Ghost.

 

Although her memoir ends differently, it still begins: “Shortly after stepping out of my new home with my hound for our first stroll through the historic seacoast village of Mystic, a woman pulled over in her van and yelled, ‘Excuse me.’ Assuming she was a tourist wanting directions to Mystic Pizza or some other attraction, I wasn't prepared for what she really wanted to know: ‘Do you realize the back of your skirt is tucked into your underwear?’”

 

Saunders has since sprinkled new information throughout such as the mysterious tomb and calendar chambers hidden in Groton’s Gungywamp site. New chapters include how a beer shortage affected New England’s history, scary ghost stories from the Daniel Packer Inne and Denison Homestead, plus Lisa’s quest to turn her Mystic Stein Hoist win into a national one at the Samuel Adams Brewery in Boston.

The basic story line remains: While searching for the “7 Wonders of Mystic” with her beagle/basset hound, author Lisa Saunders uncovers the secrets behind the Titanic's shoes and Amelia Earhart's Noank wedding. But will she ever find an adventure of her own--one that will make her thin and famous? When walking the Mystic Seafarer's Trail (which Lisa designed for those who don't like to go uphill), she meets a blind sailor who invites her on a long, winter voyage. Can this plump writer defy squalls, scurvy, and her fear of scraping barnacles to survive this epic journey?

Bank Square Books carries autographed copies of Mystic Seafarer’s Trail and it is available as an e-book. Visit Lisa at www.authorlisasaunders.com.

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About the Author: Lisa Saunders is an award-winning writer and local TV host living in Mystic, Connecticut, with her husband and hound. She works as a part-time history interpreter at Mystic Seaport, is the parent representative of the Congenital CMV Foundation and is a member of the Daughters of American Revolution (Anna Warner Bailey Chapter). A graduate of Cornell University, she is an instructor at New London Adult & Continuing Education and holds writing/publishing workshops for children and adults. A consulting publicist, she received the National Council for Marketing & Public Relations Gold Medallion. Lisa can be reached directly at saundersbooks@aol.com or visit her at: www.authorlisasaunders.com.

 

 

Reviews (critics and “fans”)

 

 

“You will laugh out loud at Lisa’s adventures in this part travel guide, part historical reference and completely hilarious tale.” Bree Shirvell, Editor, Stonington-Mystic Patch

 

“Author Lisa Saunders has mastered the art/science/gift of writer-reader communication. She’s not writing at you; she’s talking to you…no holds barred. Her frequently disarming candor evokes reader reactions ranging from chuckle to head-shaking laughter.“ George Nammack, Long Island Boating World

 

“With a keen, self-deprecating wit, Saunders tells the tale of each of the 7 Wonders [of Mystic], beginning with Wonder #1, the whaleship Charles W. Morgan.” Windcheck magazine

 

“Lisa Saunders has written an engaging and solidly researched narrative which should capture the attention of all who are interested in early New England history and the traditions of the sea that were one of its foundations.” David S. Martin, Ph.D., Professor/Dean Emeritus, Gallaudet University, Washington, DC

 

“Mystic Seafarer's Trail is full of local history, adventure, misadventure, and laughs.  Lisa Saunders has thought long and hard about the historic homes, landmarks, graveyards, and dead people of Mystic, Connecticut.  As a newbie in an old seaside town, Lisa sets out to explore what life was, is, and will be (for her) in Mystic.  She brings with her basset/beagle hound, Bailey, and a unique, thoughtful, and - often - quite humorous perspective. As you walk the streets of this small seaside town with Lisa and you get to know her, you find yourself interested, engaged, and (seriously) laughing out loud. This book is perfect for Mystic area locals, history buffs (she's done her research), sightseers, and those who could use a good laugh.  And, if they ever make the "Mystic Seafarer's Trail - The Movie," Lisa should definitely be in it. (If you've read the book, you know what I mean ;-). If you live in, or are traveling to the Mystic, Connecticut area, this book is for you.” TripAdvisor (Suzanne Doukas Niermeyer)

 

"Hi Lisa - your book was a big hit at our son's wedding!  I sent the book out early so guests could read it while traveling to Mystic and everyone said it made their trip much more interesting." K.S.

 

“I found Lisa’s anticipation of her sailing adventure just plain entertaining and could relate to her internal dialogue, misgivings, and somewhat grandiose fantasies. She is a person worth spending time with.” Ann Kuehner, LCSW

 

“I laughed out loud on a number of occasions. It’s interesting, humorous and touching.” Glenn Gordinier, author of Surfing Cold Water: A New Englander's Off-Season Obsession

 

“This book is a splendid way to tie Mystic's history to life today—a bridge from the past to the present—for any age.” Lou Allyn, Masons Island

 

“An historical—and sometimes hysterical—look at Mystic. I can’t wait to visit!” Marianne Greiner, Illustrator, New York

 

“Entertaining, witty, informative—and cute! It covers a range of topics from personal loss to finding life, history and new friends.” Kristin Hartnett, Executive Director, Laughworks, Mystic, Connecticut

 

“What a read—fascinating!” Kathleen Poole, former Chesapeake Bay waterwoman

 

 

REVIEWS ON AMAZON:

 

“If you're a native of coastal CT or even just love to go there on vacation (or want to), the Mystic Seafarer's Trail is a humorous and informational guide to the area through the eyes of local author Lisa Saunders and her dog Bailey. Through mishaps like a skirt being tucked into underwear and a sailing trip gone awry, you get a taste of the area and will laugh along the way. I would highly recommend for fans of Bill Bryson and Jenny Lawson, or people looking for a good read.” Jackie T.

 

“Mystic Seafarer's Trail is an adventure that takes you through a journey in a wonderful and humorous way. The author does an amazing job in making this book a very addicting book to read that truly I did not want to put down. It was a great journey of which I laughed, cried, and captured new meaning into my own life.” Kendra M.

 

“This author has a way of making even the most routine activities of life, like walking her dog, into a search for adventure. With her slightly self-deprecatory sense of humor, the author, a newcomer to Mystic, learns the local etiquette as well as the lore and legends of this seaside town. Readers will learn about a wide variety of topics ranging from shipwrecks to genealogy to how to become an extra in a movie. You will enjoy the author's friendly tone as she explores the history of the region and tries to create a little history of her own. Enjoyable and informative read.” ThatzRight

 

“So enjoyed reading this book--Lisa has a great way of storytelling--can hardly wait to visit Mystic and see where all of these adventures took place :)”  Marti Perhach

 

“It is really amazing to be reading a book that is written about the area in which I live. Gained a lot of knowledge about the history of the locations.” Lorraine M Sanborn

 

“Mystic Seafarer's Trail is funny, fun and informative. Funny because Lisa Saunders' adventures (real and imagined) made me smile and yes laugh! Fun because the author captured the spirit that historians experience as they undertake their adventures of discovery. Fun because the serendipity of finding "cousins" in a cemetery is not lost on any researcher. Informative? Well that is obvious. I learned a lot about Mystic and Lisa - and it was all interesting. I can't wait to visit Mystic again - and walk the Seafarer's Trail!” Marjory

 

“Settling into a new town is never easy but for Lisa Saunders and her hound Bailey the process is more adventure than nesting. From the very first page to the last you'll laugh out loud. And anyone with a fondness of Mystic, Conn, will appreciate the tour of the tiny village and the history Saunders was able to uncover. Saunders has created a hilarious story that is part travel guide, part memoir and part historical reference.” Bridget Shirvell

 

“Interesting read makes you think and wonder. drift into the past and travel with the sea folk who take their chances to better their future, no knowing what is ahead.” A. White "world traveler" (kerrville, Texas)

 

“Well written and very interesting stories. I enjoyed how she tied all the stories together and yet each one was different.” Judy H.

 

“This book was a wonderful read. I felt as if I was on some of the adventures that Lisa wrote about. Her chapters pertaining to her "voyage at sea" was very entertaining and funny. As I read this book, it really sparked an interest to visit Mystic, CT, and surrounding area someday and venture to all of the places mentioned within the book. Lisa has a great sense of humor and I found myself laughing out loud many times. I have enjoyed Lisa's previous books and look forward to her next literary adventure. Another great book from Lisa Saunders!” Daniel Elser (Dallas TX USA) -

 

“I found out through reading this that the author & I are related! This was a fun, fact-filled book. Love the history of this area.”  Michele Rolfe "Wolfpug" (Bridgeport, NY USA):

 

 

 

 

 

How to Brew Beer in New England

How to Brew Beer in New England

by Lisa Saunders

 

Anyone with a stove can brew beer—it’s not that hard and it doesn't cost much to get started. Our forefathers brewed it--George Washington and Sam Adams just to name a few. The Vikings even learned how to brew it at sea.

 

New Englanders (lobster eaters anyway) already own one of the largest pieces of necessary equipment—a stock pot for steeping the grains and boiling the brew. Recently legalized in all 50 states, everyone from President Obama to the lady next door is brewing beer.

Although it continues to grow in popularity with people from all walks of life, according to Chris Timmann, co-owner with his wife Melissa of Craft Brews Supplies in Wyoming, R.I., “Chefs, chemists and engineers get particularly excited about the science behind different varieties.”

Melissa, pictured above brewing beer,  added, “Many of my girlfriends enjoy making beer, too. Their husbands have no clue how it’s done, and some don’t care—but they sure love having a fresh, tasty supply of inexpensive beer in the house.”

Beer has been an important and vital medicinal drink throughout the ages and was used as scurvy prevention when infused with spruce needles or other vitamin C containing ingredients. The Mayflower passengers certainly wouldn’t have left England without it (read more about it in the historical—and sometimes hysterical--adventure book, Mystic Seafarer’s Trail).

Homebrewer Alex Buckley, a field service engineer who loves history, searches for historic brews online. He said, “A lot of homebrewers are getting interested in recipes that our ancestors brewed and try to brew them using the ingredients that they had available to them.” Beer brewing recipes are available everywhere--including on an ancient Mesopotamian tablet--and even one of George Washington’s homebrewing recipes can be found online.

 

The White House also publishes their beer brewing recipes. Sam Kass, author of the White House blog post, “Ale to the Chief: White House Beer Recipe,”  states, “As far as we know the White House Honey Brown Ale is the first alcohol brewed or distilled on the White House grounds.” Like many homebrewers, after working with a recipe from a local brew shop, the White House added a “secret ingredient” to make their beer unique. In their case, they add honey tapped “from the first ever bee-hive on the South Lawn. The honey gives the beer a rich aroma and a nice finish but it doesn't sweeten it.” This White House Honey Ale recipe from the blog post, which includes an excellent video of how beer is made, will give you an idea of the whole brewing process from start to finish (see: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2012/08/29/ale-chief-white-house-beer-recipe):

More than one million Americans brew beer at home. You, like the current president, can join them right away by purchasing a homebrewing kit for your kitchen. Beer making equipment kits for brewing five gallons (48, 12-oz. bottles) cost from $89 - $203 depending on how many time-saving gadgets you want, and the ingredient kits range from $38-60, depending on the kind of beer you want. Not an expensive way to launch a new hobby that will ensure you have an inexpensive, ready supply of beer in the house.

Chris of Craft Brews Supplies said that a homebrewer can complete his first batch of beer within three hours of bringing home the needed supplies—and that includes clean up time. Within a month, the beer will be ready to drink. Although Chris admits yeast does not wear a watch, you can expect the following timeline for your brew (but the actual time from boiling to drinking your brew depends on the style of beer you are making):

• Brewing: 2 Hours (the brew at this stage is called “wort,” which means unfermented beer.
• Fermentation: 2 weeks (1 week fermenting + 1 week conditioning)
• Bottling the Beer: 1 Hour
• Bottle Conditioning (allows beer to carbonate): 2-4 Weeks

 

Sample ingredient kit includes English pale ale (Bass Ale style), malt extract, hops, yeast, priming sugar, specialty grains, steeping bag and direction sheet.

 

  Chris holds up the steeping bag containing the malt to let the excess fluid drain out after he has let it steep for 25-30 minutes at 155 degrees F. Steeping the malt (grain) is similar to steeping tea. Chris then throws the spent grain in his garden to use as fertilizer. Some brewers use spent grain to make bread, pretzels, pie crusts, and even dog biscuits.

 Christ stirring the boiling wort in preparation to pour in the malt extract--a processed sugary malt product that is ready to use.

 

Although one person can handle the whole operation, Melissa stirs while Chris pours in German Hallertau Hop pellets.

Chris said, “Homebrewers like to share beer and push the envelope with their creative recipes by adding unique flavorings from star anise to pine needle to coffee to bourbon soaked oak chips. There are also the brewers that like to stay the way of traditional brewing and try to emulate the brewers from centuries past.  We start any beginner brewers off with extract brewing, which uses the malt extract as the sugar base. There are also advanced homebrewers that use no malt extract, but rather extract the sugars from the grains in a process called mashing. This is called all-grain brewing--a much more involved but exact brewing method.”

If you know the style of beer you want to brew, you can call someone like Chris and he will prepackage the ingredients for you accordingly. “Many of the recipes of popular, commercial beers can be cloned from online recipes. The homebrewed beer won’t taste exactly the same because of equipment and storage differences, but it will get pretty close to the flavor you are looking for.“

Chris and his wife, Melissa, enjoy making beer every weekend to try new recipes for their monthly newsletter. They host four beer competitions a year where they invite brewers to submit their best for a taste testing among themselves. The winner takes home a gift certificate to their shop.  Melissa said many of their customers have become friends as they enjoy tastings and sharing their favorite recipes with each other.  Chris and Melissa publish their recipes, such as their “Winter Wass-ale,” a brew that includes cinnamon and nutmeg, on their website.

According to Chris, the basic ingredients for beer can be purchased separately or in a prepackaged kit:

·        Malt--a dried grain such as barley, wheat or rye, that provides the sugar base for the yeast to eat (a process called fermentation), which creates the alcohol.  

·        Hops--the bitter, female flowers (also called cones) of the hop plant that offsets the sweet of the malt. In addition to balancing the inherent sweetness of beer, hops also act as a preservative. Hops are sold as compressed green pellets or dried whole cones.

·        Yeast--a single-celled fungus that ferments sugars and other carbohydrates.

·        Optional ingredients: spices, herbs, fruits, fruit flavorings, etc.

The primary ingredient of beer, of course, is water. Most any kind of water will do without treating it, but the water quality can affect the taste of beer.  

The following basic equipment, which can be purchased separately or in a kit, is needed to make a 5-gallon batch:  

Thermometer: Controlling temperature is critical to beer making.  For example, the temperature of the wort when the yeast is thrown in (pitched) affects the type of beer produced. If the yeast is pitched when the wort is too hot, it will kill the yeast.  “Yeast are like bumble bees,” said Chris. “If the brew is too cold, the yeast becomes ‘lethargic’ and are slow to do their job.” Chris said to make ale, the yeast should be pitched when the wort is at 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit.  To make lager, the yeast should be pitched when the wort’s temperature is in the mid-50s.

Primary fermentor: Usually a large plastic pail—needs to hold an extra gallon or so to accommodate the foam that forms during fermentation (known as Krausen).

Cover: An airtight lid to place over primary fermentor.

Carboy: A large glass (or plastic bottle) that is used as the secondary fermentor.

Fermentation lock: Also called a water seal. It’s a device that fits into the carboy to allow carbon dioxide to escape without letting oxygen in.

Hydrometer: This is used to measure the density of the wort and beer in regard to the amount of fermentable sugar at various stages of fermentation.

Siphoning hose: Used to transfer liquid between containers.

Bottles: Bottles are long-neck for ease of capping. Popular sizes are 12 and 22 oz.

Capper: A little device that helps you clamp on bottle caps.

For more information about beer brewing or beer brewing supplies, contact Chris or Melissa of Craft Brews Supplies at 401-539-2337, or visit: www.craftbrewssupplies.com.

For folks who are serious about learning how to brew beer, Chris recommends the following books: “How to Brew” by John Palmer and “The complete joy of Home Brewing” by Charlie Papazian.

 

Who knows, if not drunken to excess, beer just might save your life someday. During the age of the Egyptian pharaohs, it was prescribed to treat scorpion bites. 

For free online brewing instructions, visit the American Homebrewers Association at www.homebrewersassociation.org. This website includes information on every state’s law regarding homebrewing. Though homebrewing is legal in every state, it is not legal to sell home brewed beer.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

 Lisa Saunders,  author of Mystic Seafarer’s Trail, is the winner of the 2013 Samuel Adams Stein Hosting contest in Mystic, Connecticut. See: Descendent of Insurrectionist Wins Samuel Adams Steinhoisting Competition