Influential Bartenders Throughout History

Bartending is a notable profession that has been around for centuries. From the early innkeepers in England to today’s creative mixologists, the bartending world has evolved significantly over the years. When you hire a professional bartender to work at your next event, you can expect friendly and engaging service that will delight all of your guests. To trace bartending back to its roots, read on for a look back at some of the most influential bartenders throughout history.

Jerry Thomas

Jerry Thomas is one of the most notable bartenders to have ever set foot behind a bar. This master craftsman was alive in the early to mid 1800s, and he wrote The Bon Vivant’s Companion, which remains a canonical bartending text to this day. Thomas worked in establishments around the United States and Europe, and he was behind master concoctions, such as the Prince of Wales Punch.

“Cocktail” Bill Boothby

The heyday of the cocktail occurred in the United States, and spanned the decades between the end of the Civil War and the height of Prohibition. One of the master bartenders of this era was “Cocktail” Bill Boothby. Boothby worked in the noted Palace Hotel Bar of San Francisco, where he created some of the classic cocktails that we know and love today.

Ada Coleman

Women bartenders were also important in the formation of cocktail culture as we know it. One of the female pioneers of the bartending profession was named Ada Coleman. Starting in 1899, Coleman worked at the Savoy Hotel’s American Bar, where she developed enticing drinks, such as the classic Hanky Panky cocktail.

When you are hosting a festive summer party, Professional Bartenders Unlimited can provide you with expert bartending services. Whether you are looking for bartending equipment, or you would like to hire a bartender in Tucson, our company will be there to assist you. Call us at (520) 721-1577 to reserve a date for our beverage catering services.