The U.S. marked National Beer Day on April 7th. Although that day has passed, here’s some positive news for you: May 8th holds a distinct celebration in Florida with its own dedicated Beer Day.
National Beer Day marks the day in 1933 when the federal government classified beer with an alcohol content below 3.2% by weight (or 4% by volume) as “non-intoxicating.” This classification permitted its manufacture and sale despite the ongoing national ban on alcoholic beverages imposed by the 18th Amendment.
Although the reintroduction of beer led to widespread jubilation throughout most of the country, Florida remained unaffected because of its ongoing state-level ban from 1919. Following extensive discussions, the Florida legislature eventually approved a measure legalizing 3.2% beer. Governor David Sholtz declared that he would endorse this legislation but gave regulators four days to get ready first; thus, the signing took place at 9 a.m. on Monday, May 8th, 1933.
Steamships full of beer quickly began floating toward the Sunshine State from Havana and New Orleans. Trucks and trains also made their way southward from breweries in Philadelphia, Milwaukee, Chicago, and New York. While still technically illegal, Florida prohibition authorities agreed to let this beer flow in so long as it remained secure in bonded warehouses until the “beer-o hour” of legalization arrived.
On the morning of May 8th, beer distributors in Florida began loading their trucks in preparation for the significant announcement. At precisely 9:01 a.m., radio stations revealed that Governor Scholtz had signed off, indicating that following over 14 years, legally sold beer would return at last.
Across the state, lunch spots buzzed with activity despite many places saving limited stock for evening celebrations. On May 8th, beer usually sold for about 30 cents per bottle. Seemed affordable enough, yet this price was notably lower compared to the usual rate elsewhere in the nation, which hovered at roughly ten cents.
Miami’s beer supply was notably limited, comprising mainly of 300,000 bottles of Cuban imports. Over a third of this stock was acquired by local Piggly Wiggly grocery stores, with the remainder distributed among area restaurants, hotels, pharmacies, and service stations.
By mid-morning, Miami’s eateries serving beer found themselves swarmed with patrons. At a notably boisterous establishment, a short man shouldered his way through the packed throng and instinctively yelled at the bartender for “a glass of milk.” Blushing profusely, he swiftly amended his request: “Actually, make that a beer. Guess I got ahead of myself!”
In West Palm Beach, the city commissioners decided to overturn the long-standing local ban on alcohol and opened a case to celebrate. Following several moments of revelry, they imitated a barbershop quartet, performing classic drinking tunes like “Sweet Adeline.”
Across Florida on May 8, 1933, similar events unfolded with people singing, dancing, whooping, and hollering. More significantly, the return of legally sanctioned beer contributed to a notable economic upturn during that spring season. This marked an important shift as the country began emerging from the Great Depression, which had started almost four years prior.
By fast forwarding to today, we see that Florida’s approximately 400 craft breweries play a significant role by providing direct employment for around 26,000 people locally and contributing more than $240 annually per adult statewide through their economic activities. The founders of these enterprises often collaborate with the Florida Brewers Guild to support the growth and sustainability of the state’s flourishing brewing sector. At present, we’re spearheading efforts aimed at enabling small craft breweries to sell products directly to establishments like bars, restaurants, and retail outlets. Implementing this change could result in increased earnings for smaller business owners as well as greater variety and affordability for consumers within the community.
We frequently overlook our basic liberties, such as the freedom to enjoy a cold beer. Surprisingly, this privilege was revoked from Floridians during the years 1919 to 1933. Therefore, on May 8th, let’s toast to liberty. Cheers to Florida Beer Day!
Brian Detweiler serves as the President of the Florida Brewers Guild.
Jason E. Taylor wrote “The Brew Deal: How Beer Aided in Tackling the Great Depression” (Palgrave Macmillan).
JOIN THE CONVERSATION
Submit letters to the editor (a maximum of 200 words) or Your Turn essays (approximately 500 words) to
letters@tallahassee.com
Please provide your address solely for verification reasons, and if you submit a Your Turn, make sure to add a photograph along with a brief 1-2 line biography about yourself. Additionally, you have the option to send in anonymous Zings.
Tallahassee.com/Zing.
Submissions are published based on available space. They might be modified regarding content, clarity, and length, and could also appear across various parts of the USA TODAY NETWORK.
The article initially appeared in the Tallahassee Democrat.
Toast to liberty: It’s Florida Beer Day! | Commentary
Leave a Reply