The History of Witch Hats and Alewives: A Toast to Women in STEM
Halloween is a fun holiday bursting with rich histories. Among the colourful costumes, one that stands out time and time again is the witch, complete with her pointy hat. But have you ever wondered how this iconic symbol became associated with witches? Let's unravel this story, which surprisingly connects into the world of science and the early women in STEM.
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Witches and Their Pointy Hats
Historically, women who defied societal norms or exhibited unexplainable behaviors were often vilified and, in many cases, branded as witches. The pointed hat, or the "witch's hat," has blurry origins, but its association with these marginalized women is a testament to how society marks and remembers those who don't fit within the times. Some theories suggest that the pointy hat was a symbol of fear and mistrust, and in medieval Europe, such hats were forced upon people who were considered different or heretics so they could be easily identified. Over time, this hat became synonymous with witches, especially during the witch trials and hunts.
Alewives and The Art of Brewing
From the early 14th century to the late 18th century, the most popular drink was ale, also known as small beer. Long before commercial breweries took over, brewing beer was primarily a household chore, often falling under the duties of women. These women, known as alewives, were masters of fermentation, and their skills were often sought after. They would craft their brews in large cauldrons, stirring with long wooden paddles and selling in the local markets.
The alewives had distinct ways to signify that their brew was up for sale. They'd hang a broomstick or "ale-stake" outside their door or above their taverns. Over time, rumors started and these broomsticks became associated with witches flying in the night, and the bubbling cauldron of brew became the potion pot of a witch.
The Science Behind Brewing
Alewives were essentially early chemists. The brewing process, while seemingly straightforward, requires a precise balance of ingredients and conditions to produce the perfect ale. It begins with the malting process, where grains, typically barley, are soaked in water and allowed to germinate. This process converts stored starches into sugars, essential for fermentation.
Next, the grains are roasted to develop flavor and color. The degree of roasting can vary, leading to different types of beers from pale ales to stouts. The roasted malt is then mashed with hot water in a process called mashing, extracting fermentable sugars. The resultant liquid, known as wort, is boiled and hops are added for bitterness, flavor, and aroma.
Finally, yeast is introduced to the cooled wort, and fermentation begins. Yeast, a microorganism, consumes the sugars in the wort and produces alcohol and carbon dioxide in the process. This biochemical reaction was harnessed and perfected by alewives long before it was understood scientifically.
Women in STEM: A Legacy from Brewing to Modern Day
The alewives, with their innate understanding of the brewing process, can be seen as early women in STEM. Their experimental nature, dedication, and the scientific approach to brewing laid the foundation for many women who followed, breaking barriers in fields once dominated by men.
Today, as we celebrate women in STEM, we recognize their invaluable contributions across all domains of science and technology. From brewing to biotechnology, women have played and continue to play a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of the world.
A toast to women in stem
So, this Halloween, as you spot the occasional witch with her pointy hat, remember the alewives. Raise a toast to the pioneering spirit of these women, the original women in STEM, who blended craft with science, leaving an indelible mark on history.