A lesson in Bozeman beer history
Hops and History
By: Matt Parsons
It’s hot, but the honey rye is cold. In the shade of the Tinsley House, an early 1900’s homestead, it’s ten degrees cooler. Just to the south, a field of barley waves lazily in the slight breeze. It’s a nod to the agricultural roots of the Gallatin Valley, and the surprising history of malt production that fed a large part of the nation’s brewing industry over a century ago.
There could be no better setting for the Museum of the Rockies’ Hops & History events. Typically the event runs the last Tuesday of each month from May through September. Museum curator of history, Michael Fox, takes you on a journey through Montana’s brewing past up to the present, and explains the robust history of Montana’s beer roots.
But before all that, a bluegrass duo tunes up and Madison River Brewing Company is icing down the kegs of Pale Ale, Salmon Fly Honey Rye, Irresistible Amber, and Copper John. Eight dollars gets you in the door and also gets you a pint glass and six drink tickets. The beer tent is already queued up with thirsty beer enthusiasts.