Discover the trailblazing journey of Ada Coleman, a pioneering female bartender at the Savoy’s American Bar. She crafted the iconic Hanky Panky cocktail, defying gender norms in a male-dominated industry. The podcast dives into her challenges and triumphs, exploring the struggles faced by barmaids in the early 1900s. Learn about the professional rivalries that shaped the atmosphere at the Savoy and the lasting impact of Coleman's legacy on cocktail culture. It's a fascinating look at resilience, innovation, and the evolution of bartending.
Ada Coleman broke gender barriers in the early 20th century bartending scene, proving women's capabilities in a male-dominated industry.
Her innovative cocktail creations, particularly the 'Hanky Panky,' solidified her legacy at the iconic Savoy Hotel's American Bar.
Deep dives
Ada Coleman's Path to Bartending Success
Ada Coleman, born around 1875, navigated a male-dominated bar culture to become the head bartender at the Savoy Hotel's American Bar, defying societal expectations of women’s roles in the early 20th century. Raised in a family connected to the hospitality industry, she initially worked in a flower shop before transitioning to bartending, showing remarkable talent and ambition. At the age of 24, she quickly rose through the ranks at the well-known establishment, becoming a favorite among patrons and staff alike. Ada's story illustrates the unique challenges faced by women at the time in a field that often saw women relegated to lesser roles.
The Significance of the American Bar
The American Bar at the Savoy Hotel is celebrated as one of the oldest cocktail bars in London, featuring a rich history that includes a clientele of esteemed guests and celebrities. Ada’s tenure there significantly contributed to the bar's legendary status, as she became known for her exceptional cocktail creations, including the famous 'Hanky Panky'. Despite a societal tendency to view women as unfit for bartending, the bar thrived under her leadership, showcasing the sophistication and quality of services women could provide. Additionally, the gender dynamics in the bar industry at the time highlighted the dual role of female bartenders as both skilled professionals and marketing tools to attract more patrons.
Gender Politics in the Bar Industry
The early 1900s saw significant prejudice against women working in bars, as highlighted by a report titled 'Women as Barmaids,' which aimed to restrict female employment in the industry. This document argued that women’s presence in bars was morally detrimental, reflecting a broader societal unease about women’s roles in public spaces. Despite the challenges Ada faced, including potential discrimination from male colleagues, she managed to carve out a successful and respected career. The rivalry with fellow bartender Ruth Burgess further exemplified the competitiveness and challenges women faced while working under traditionally male-dominant expectations.
Legacy and Recognition of Ada Coleman
Ada Coleman's contributions to the bartending profession have not only been recognized posthumously through projects like the Ada Coleman Project but have also inspired discussions about women's representation in the industry. After her departure from the Savoy, her legacy continued as her signature cocktail, the 'Hanky Panky,' remains popular and symbolic of her influence. Despite her undying passion for bartending, Ada lived a relatively quiet life after her retirement, illustrating the contrast between professional acclaim and personal privacy. Today, her story serves as a catalyst for promoting gender equity in bartending and honoring the women who have shaped this industry.
Ada Coleman was head bartender at the American Bar at the Savoy Hotel in London in the early 20th century. She created a cocktail that is still served today, and she's an enduring icon of the bartending industry.
Research:
The Ada Coleman Project. https://theadacolemanproject.com/about/
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Bryant, Miranda. “Savoy’s American Bar appoints first woman as head bartender in 95 years.” Aug. 6, 2021. https://www.theguardian.com/food/2021/aug/06/savoy-american-bar-appoints-first-woman-as-head-bartender-in-95-years
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Saunders, Minott. “Famous Bar Maids Who Worked at Same Bar Twenty Years Without Speaking , Retire.” The Aspen Daily Times. February 16, 1926. https://www.coloradohistoricnewspapers.org/?a=d&d=ADT19260216.2.2&e=-------en-20--1--img-txIN%7ctxCO%7ctxTA--------0------
Styn, Rebecca. “Toast to Ada Coleman, National Women’s History Month.” Chilled. https://chilledmagazine.com/toast-to-ada-coleman-national-womens-history-month/
“Women as Barmaids: Published for the Joint Committee on the Employment of Barmaids.” King Publishing. London. 1905. https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=B-VNAQAAMAAJ&rdid=book-B-VNAQAAMAAJ&rdot=1