Well before we discuss some history of Guinness in Port Jefferson, we need to give credit to the most honorable Arthur Guinness who started the St James brewery in Dublin back in 1759. Within eight years Sir Arthur as he would later be called, was a master of the Dublin Corporation of Brewers. In 1761 he married Olivia Whitmore and with their ten surviving children established a dynasty which has spread this magical, Irish brew around the world. Unfortunately it was till the late 20th century when a long time resident of Port Jefferson and former Suffolk County District Attorney had the good sense to bring the creamy brew to Port Jeff village . So how did Guinness begin?
It begins with a signature.
Arthur Guinness signs a 9,000-year lease on an unused brewery at St. James’s Gate, Dublin. It costs him an initial £100 (about $147 US dollars) with an annual rent of £45 (about $66 US dollars) – this includes crucial water rights. The brewery covers four acres and consists of a copper, a kieve, a mill, two malthouses, stabling for 12 horses and a loft to hold 200 tons of hay. Arthur begins brewing porter and ale.
1815 European campaign victories.
GUINNESS® is now well known on the Continent – reputedly aiding the recovery of a cavalry officer wounded at the Battle of Waterloo (as recalled by this 1930s advert).
1861 Black Velvet born in London.
While the city grieves over the death of Albert, the Prince Consort, a bar steward at Brookes Club has an unusual idea. According to legend, he decides that even the champagne should be in mourning, and adds Guinness Extra Stout to the bubbly. With this respectful gesture he has invented ‘Black Velvet’ – a drink still enjoyed today. Not sure about this piece of history. Interesting but?
1890 Stout, hope and charity.
Edward Cecil is appointed the first Lord of Iveagh and establishes the Guinness and Iveagh Trusts to provide homes for the poor in Dublin and London. He makes substantial contributions to Trinity College Dublin and Dublin hospitals. His brother Arthur landscapes St. Stephen’s Green and gives it as a gift to the public. Drinking Guinness just makes you a nicer person
1959 Launch of GUINNESS® Draught in Great Britain.
Guinness Draught appears on tap in British pubs for the first time. Its design will go through many stages of evolution over the years. The beginning of the Guinness Draught in bars!
1988- Advanced technology miniaturizes pub.
The first ‘widget’ beer, GUINNESS® Draught in a can, is launched. Three years later it wins the Queen’s award for technological achievement. The beginning of the Guinness Draught at home!
2001 World drinks two billion pints.
Almost 2 billion GUINNESS® pints a year were sold around the world and over 1 million pints of GUINNESS® a day were sold in Great Britain alone. Way to go England
Guinness Finally Comes to Port Jefferson!
It’s hard to believe but Port Jeff was deprived of Dublin’s Magical Brew for most of the 20th century. There were lots of bars and restaurants in Port Jeff but no Guinness! Finally, sometime around 1980, James Catterson brought Guinness to The Printers Devil ( now Ruvo’s) on Wynn Lane. Glorious times they were. In the old days there was a hugh copper still behind the bar and as I remember Pat, the bartender knew how to to pour a proper pint! In 2006 after a long run, The Printers Devil, Guinness and the pub menu disappeared and the torch passed to Ruvo’s with their sophisticated ambiance and gourmet Italian menu.
Guinness is alive and well in Port Jefferson
The Printers Devil is gone but Guinness is here to stay. On a recent fact finding tour of the village I was able to confirm the availability of Guinness in the immediate Village at The Old Port Pub, The Village Way, Tommy’s Place and Billie’s 1890 Saloon.
2011-more Guinness news!
I’m happy to report, Ruvo’s (formallyPrinters Devil) recently started to serve Guinness! The better news is if you decide to have a pint at Ruvo’s during happy Hour it is only $3.25. The large copper still behind the bar is gone but the copper clad bar with brass rail remain and Chris pours a perfect pint! This Thursday is Saint Patty’s day. Unfortunately James Catterson passed away in 2007 but I’m sure the Guinness will be flowing at Ruvo’s and all over Port Jeff Village. When you are celebrating, remember we have Mr. James Catterson to thank for bringing Guinness to Port Jefferson and spreading the Cheer.
Drink Responsibly and Never Drink and Drive!
Ahhh my favorite brew Guinness..I have a Guinness Shrine in my house. Many a great nite in PJ spent drinking Sir Arthurs wonderful brew..