Tapping into History: Brewery Tap Marker Relics

Taverns have served as hubs of social interaction while enjoying beloved beverages that bring people together. Yet, beyond the exquisite taste of their brews lies a fascinating history of the tools used to dispense these libations. From the humble brewery tap markers to the creative tap handles of today, each element tells a story of innovation and tradition along with regulation.

As brewing techniques evolved, so did the need for more sophisticated dispensing methods. Early brewery tap markers were likely simple wooden pegs or symbols carved into casks, serving as identifiers for the brews within. By the 19th century, as industrialization swept through the brewing industry, tap markers evolved into more standardized forms. These markers, typically made of wood, brass, or porcelain enamel steel, bore the brewery’s logo or name, serving as both a branding tool and a functional component of the tap system.

In the United States, during the 1920’s Prohibition dealt a severe blow to the brewing industry forcing many breweries to close or change their business model since the production, transport, sale, and consumption of alcohol was illegal. However, with the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, breweries faced a new challenge including U.S. government mandates for the authenticity and quality of their products.

To address these mandates, all brewery products must bear a marker of some kind, establishing a system of accountability and consumer confidence. This mandate led to a surge in creativity among breweries, as they sought to design distinctive tap markers, ball knobs, and handles to set their brands apart with elaborate designs incorporating materials such as porcelain and glass transforming these tap handles into works of art.

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Some of the forms of early 1930’s era tap markers that we know today were made of glass produced by J. E. Newman Company located in Pittsburgh, PA; these tap handles were only in production for about 6 months due to how fragile they were. Both J. E. Newman Company and Harry Davis Company were the first pioneers in manufacturing tap knobs. As time went own however, ball knobs (named for their spherical shape) became a popular choice for breweries looking to distinguish their products.

Below are a few tap marker manufacturing companies:

During the 1940s into the 1960s, drivers of stock cars and race cars would often replace their 6-speed gear shifter knobs with beer ball tap knobs as a way of customization and support of their favored breweries. Even today these knobs can be found amongst automotive flea markets and swap meetings.

Throughout the 20th century, tap handles continued to evolve alongside advancements in manufacturing and design. As the craft beer movement gained momentum in the 1980s, tap handles became a crucial aspect of brewery branding and marketing. Brewers embraced the opportunity to express their creativity through unique tap handle designs, further enhancing the consumer experience.

Today, brewery tap handles come in a staggering array of shapes, sizes, and styles, reflecting the diversity and creativity of the modern brewing landscape. From sleek and minimalist designs to elaborate sculptures, each tap handle tells a story and invites patrons to embark on a journey of taste and discovery. As we raise a glass to this rich brewery history, let us toast to the pioneers, artisans, and innovators who have transformed these humble objects into symbols of craftsmanship and tradition.