History Happy Hour
Run Time: 120 min.
On March 17, 1932, a big story started to break in Lancaster County. That day, an unassuming headline in the New Era read “Beer Pipe is Found in Sewer.” The next day, splashed across the front page in big, bold letters were the words “12 Arrests Near in Beer Line Probe.” On March 21, the paper’s front page revealed more, reading: “250 Ft. of Beer Hose Taken from Sewers.” And on the 22nd, the Intelligencer had still more of the story, led by the headline: “Beer Runners Used Several Breweries to Escape Raiders.” The story went on for months, but the gist of it was this: Max Hassel, a Reading bootlegger, had run an 18-inch hose 3,000 feet (a half mile!) from the Rieker Star Brewery at 554 West King Street to an empty warehouse at 112 North Water Street where he and his men packaged and distributed the beer illegally for consumption around the region in violation of the 18th Amendment of the US Constitution.
Today, 112 Water Street is home to Zoetropolis, a local social hotspot with a movie theater, restaurant, and stillhouse. It’s only fitting that on Tuesday, June 4, LancasterHistory brings its sold-out History Happy Hour series to this lively, historical location. Over drinks and light bites, we’ll give attendees “the scoop” on Lancaster during Prohibition, from the infamous hose to the police commissioner bent on bringing down a bootlegger and a corrupt judge.
The doors (and bar) open at 5:30pm at Zoetropolis on Tuesday, June 4. The program will begin at 6pm. Attendees are welcome to stay until 7:30pm. Ticket purchase of $30 per person includes admission to the program, light snacks, and one complimentary beverage. (Please note that additional drinks and merchandise are not included in the purchase of a ticket. Zoetropolis’ kitchen will be closed on Tuesday, so attendees may wish to make dinner reservations at one of many fabulous restaurants downtown after the event.) Event is suggested for ages 18 or older, and individuals must be 21 years or older to consume adult beverages.
You may also call 717.392.4633 to purchase your tickets over the phone. Advance registration strongly recommended as sell-out is likely and walk-in tickets are not guaranteed.