Beer bottle opener

An alcoholic beverage made from brewing malt and hops that was already known in ancient times. In the Middle Ages, brewing became the domain of monasteries, which produced the beverage not only for their own use but also for sale. In the 18th century, beer production was modernised with scientific advances and the invention of the alcohol thermometer, among other things, and the scientific explanation of the fermentation processes. Today, beer is one of the most popular alcoholic drinks, not only because of its easy access and price, but also because of its taste. With dozens of breweries operating in the city, the people of Szczecin were keen to consume the beverage, especially during gatherings and celebrations. Black-and-white photographs and postcards have survived to the present day showing men from local singing groups, military or sports groups posing for photographs holding mugs of beer. The Szczecin Bohrisch beer produced in the Pomorzany district (Pommerensdorf) was one of the three most famous in and around the city. Together with beer producers Bergschloss and Elysium, they formed the forefront of local brewing, known as the 'three kings'. They were recognised not only by the shape of their bottles and logos, but also by the palatability appreciated by beer drinkers. In the collection of the Museum of the History of Szczecin from the Bohrisch brewery, in addition to beer bottles, enamelled advertising and a metal bottle case, we can also find a bottle opener with the company name on the obverse and the inscription Flaschenbiere on the reverse. Although the opening part is cut in the shape of a heart, it is a popular hand opener that was used from the late 19th century to the present day. They were invented by an American of Irish descent, William Painter (1838-1906), in 1894, shortly after he had patented and put into production another of his inventions – crown-type bottle closures, or popular caps. Małgorzata Peszko