Poems and Thoughts    by Frank Maurer

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George Washington's 'Small Beer.' A reminiscence on our Revolution's 250th anniversary. In 1757, George Washington was only 25-years-old And in charge of troops during the Seven Years' War. To prevent sickness from bad, untested water, He brewed his 'Small Beer' for the men. He documented this, handwritten, in his military journal. This 'low-alcohol, molasses-sweetened brew provided A safe, bacteria-free, everyday beverage for his troops.' The ingredients included bran-hops, molasses, yeast, and water. Hops were sifted and boiled for three hours, Strained into a cooler, together with the molasses. When the mixture was 'blood warm,' yeast was added. It was left to ferment for a day and night, then bottled. The molasses, caramelized sugar, and gingerbread spice, Gave it a sweet taste with an alcohol level of 2 to 3 percent. This brew saved lives and prevented many intestinal problems, Plus, it gave a little kick for all the work they were doing! Frank Maurer 27 June 2026 1520 Hours. .