Join us on October 1st, 2026 for a special History After Dark presentation at North Pillar Brewing Company! Our topic and host site will be sure to quench your thirst for knowledge

Before Oktoberfest: The Archaeology of Ancient & Medieval German Beer

Although beer is made from just a few simple ingredients, it has changed quite a bit over several thousand years. This presentation will trace the development of beer in what is now called Germany from its earliest beginnings to something closer to the drink we might enjoy at an Oktoberfest today. We will look at key archaeological evidence, including ancient residues along with opulent drinking vessels, and consider why ancient beer was so important to society and what it may have tasted like! Our trip will start in the Neolithic with the introduction of agriculture and brewing. It will continue through the Celtic Iron Age, with beer-drinking chieftains, to the Roman period, where common Roman soldiers at the border of the Empire drank beer as often as wine. The presentation will conclude in the Middle Ages, when the bittering hops plant so closely associated with today's beverage finally arrived on the scene.

Joshua Driscoll

Joshua Driscoll is an archaeologist at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Archaeological Research Laboratory Center as well as an adjunct lecturer in Celtic Studies. His 2023 PhD dissertation at UW-Milwaukee explained the strategic use of alcohol in Iron Age Europe and included an experimental component involving the recreation of ancient-style beer. He has authored several publications about archeology, history, and archaeochemistry of ancient beer.

Please join us at North Pillar Brewing Co., located at 212 E North Street, Waukesha, WI, for our special presentation and enjoy some great beer on tap from our friends here as we dive into the history of the drink we enjoy the taste of!

Members will receive $1 off the beer of your choice. Please bring your membership card for proof

October 2026 History After Dark!

Choose your tickets

General Admission: Museum Members ticket

General Admission: Non-Museum Members ticket

Donations

Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum