George Washington’s 1757 beer recipe brought back to life ahead of America’s 250th birthday The New York Public Library, in collaboration with TALEA Beer Co., has recreated George Washington’s 1757 beer recipe from his military journal. The historic ‘small beer,’ made with molasses and hops, was historically a safer and everyday beverage. A modern version, Liberty Lager, has also been developed to appeal to contemporary palates.

• The New York Public Library (NYPL) has recreated George Washington’s 1757 beer recipe.
• The recipe was found in Washington’s military journal housed in the NYPL’s research collections.
• TALEA Beer Co. partnered with NYPL to recreate the historic ‘small beer’ and a modern Liberty Lager.
• Washington’s ‘small beer’ used molasses as the primary fermentable sugar and was quick to make and safer than water.
• Liberty Lager offers a modern interpretation with more hops for balance and palatability.
• The beers are being offered as part of America250 events and TALEA’s taprooms.
• The project aims to bring people together through a shared appreciation for history and brewing.