Women of Chicago Make History at the Berghoff Bar…Again
Female leaders of Chicago recreate historic all-male Prohibition photo andcelebrate a woman’s right to beer
“New Beer’s Eve” at the Berghoff Bar, April 7, 1933
(CHICAGO, March 18, 2011) – On April 7, 1933, 81-year-old Herman Berghoff, secured the first two liquor licenses issued by the City of Chicago after the repeal of Prohibition (the Volstead Act) – liquor license number one for the Berghoff Bar and number two for the restaurant. Patrons flooded into the (then all-male) Berghoff Bar to celebrate “New Beer’s Eve.” History was captured in a photo that still hangs proudly next to the bar today. This April 7, the historic photo will be accompanied by a sister version.
On Thursday, April 7, 2011 at 7:00PM several Chicago business and civic leaders will come together at the Berghoff Bar to recreate the historic all-male photo with entirely women. Carlyn Berghoff, CEO of the Berghoff Catering & Restaurant Group, is gathering these women together to honor the role women have played in shaping Chicago and its business community, as well as to recognize the women who have blazed trails for a better future.
The historic Berghoff Bar was once an all-male stronghold where no female dared set foot on its brass rail. In November of 1969 several members of the National Organization for Women (NOW) walked in and bellied up to the bar demanding service. Not long after, feminist activist, Gloria Steinem came in for a much-publicized drink. Women have been served ever since.
“This chance to make history again is a toast to the countless efforts of women in making Chicago such a great city,” says Carlyn Berghoff. As the fourth-generation and first female owner of the Berghoff Restaurant, Carlyn is honored to host such an event. “I hope this serves as a model for young women everywhere. There are no barriers, just opportunities.”
The new photo will hang next to its male counterpart. Food and drink specials will be offered at the Berghoff Restaurant throughout the month of April to celebrate this historic anniversary.
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About Berghoff Catering & Restaurant Group
An iconic Chicago 110-year institution with four generations of family ownership, the Berghoff name is synonymous with quality, tradition and excellence. Taking an authentic, creative and adaptive approach to the complex needs of today’s clients, the Berghoff Catering & Restaurant Group provides casual dining at the historic Berghoff, as well as both on-premise and off-premise catering for corporate, convention, social and private events. The Berghoff is known for its deep Chicago roots and annual Oktoberfest celebration. For more information on Berghoff Catering & Restaurant Group, visit www.berghoffgroup.com. Find them on Facebook and Twitter as well.