This day in Booze: Beer Pump

On May 9th, 1785, the British inventor Joseph Bramah patented the beer-pump handle, also known as a beer engine. using hydraulics, it allowed beer to be dispensed by simply pumping the handle, which connected to the keg via a flexible hose. Prior to his invention, beer had to be dispensed from a wooden tap in the end of the keg. With the invention of the beer pump, the kegs were able to be stored beneath the bar, in the cool earthen basement.

Through time, improvements were made, gas delivery systems were invented, and the beer pump eventually evolved into the modern beer tap that we all know and love today. So the next time your sitting at the bar, enjoy a fresh cold pint, just remember that you owe it all to Mr. Joseph Bramah and his beer pump.