Beer Gardens

Beer gardens were introduced to the United States by German immigrants, who also brought with them lager beer, the familiar light-colored, effervescent beverage. In the days before refrigeration, brewers planted trees to cool the ground above the cellars where aging lager was kept cold. In good weather, beer was sold to the public in the “garden.” The Germans believed that beer was best enjoyed in social settings, preferably with food, fresh air, and music. They gathered in outdoor venues planted with groves of trees and filled with rows of tables. Beer gardens were places where people from all social classes could mix on an equal basis. Everyone was welcome, including women, children, and non-Germans. Prices were kept low to allow even those of modest means to visit often.