Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Discover American Coffee Culture at the “Boycott Tea!” Party Sunday, Feb. 15

Step back in time and taste the revolution at the Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center (KTM&HC) this Sunday, February 15, 2026, for the launch of its bold new series: Tavern Culture: One Sip at a Time. The kickoff event, titled the “Boycott Tea!” Party, celebrates a defining moment in American culture—the shift from tea to coffee—and invites you to sample its rich legacy. 


☕ Why Coffee, Not Tea? 
In the wake of rising tensions with Britain during the 18th century, Americans began shunning tea in protest of taxation and imperial control. That cultural rebellion planted the seeds of the nation's modern-day love affair with coffee. Now, centuries later, you can explore that flavorful heritage in an engaging, sensory-filled program that brings history—and a fresh cup—to life. 

 ðŸŽ¤ Featured Guests 
The event will be hosted by KTM&HC’s Chief Curator, Catherine Prescott, and will feature Anne Mercer, co-owner of the acclaimed Connecticut-based roastery Victus Coffee. Together, they’ll unpack the intertwined stories of revolution, resistance, and roast while highlighting how colonial coffee preparation compares with modern techniques. Guests can look forward to: Fascinating historical insights into early American dining and drinking culture Live coffee brewing demos Tastings of multiple locally roasted coffees, including a historically inspired brew by Victus Coffee 

⏰ Event Details Date: Sunday, February 15, 2026 Time: Doors open at 1:30 p.m. for refreshments; program runs 2–3 p.m. Location: Garden House, Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center Tickets: $20 general admission, $12 for museum members (a 40% discount!) Register here https://keelertavernmuseum.org

About the Series 
Inspired by KTM&HC’s popular History on Tap event, the new Tavern Culture series will run through 2026. Each session pairs insightful dialogue with mouthwatering drink tastings,—from brewers to historians and culinary creatives.  Learn More For additional event details or to see the full series schedule, visit the official Boycott Tea! Party event page. 

Location: Keeler Tavern Museum & History Center, 152 Main Street, Ridgefield, CT Info Contact: info@keelertavernmuseum.org Celebrate tradition with a twist—sip history this Sunday!