How many speakeasies were open in New York City during Prohibition?

The real answer will never be known, for obvious reasons, but “official” estimates ranged from 20,000 to 100,000. Texas Guinan, Manhattan’s most famous speakeasy hostess, managed more than half-a-dozen joints herself, including the 300 Club, the Texas Guinan Club, the Century Club, Salon Royale, Club Intime and the Club Argonaut.

Advertisement, “Rheingold Extra Dry Lager Beer,” 1950-1960. New-York Historical Society

“Rheingold Extra Dry / Lager Beer,” 1950-1960. Printed paper sign. New-York Historical Society

Free Beer! @BrooklynBrewery is pouring their ‘05 Black Chocolate Stout today (5-8pm) at New-York Historical: http://brooklynbrewery.com/blog/event/vintage-black-chocolate-stout-tasting-new-york-historical-society/ 

Beer, historical and presidential!

Thanks to Tom Price of @BrooklynBrewery for guiding our tasting for the Young Friends last night! #BeerHere

Ever Ready Label Corporation, “Bring Back Beer, ‘We’re for it,’ Prosperity, Employment,” 1920-1933. Sticker. New-York Historical Society Library

Exhibition Designer Brianne Muscente about the challenges and surprises of designing the exhibition Beer Here: Brewing New York’s History, plus her possible future designing bars!

Brewer trade sign, “Peter Doelger,” 1890-1920. Metal. New-York Historical Society, Gift of Bella C. Landauer 2002.1.2168

Inspired by ‘Beer Here: Brewing New York’s History’, the terrific summer show at the New-York Historical Society, the latest Bowery Boys NYC History podcast explores the story of one of America’s greatest, most treasured products— beer.

To get this week’s episode, simply download it for FREE from iTunes or other podcasting services, subscribe to their RSS feed or get it straight from their satellite site.