Well it just so turns out that Jerry Thomas might not have written the first cocktail book published in the U.S. Harry Thomas, self-titled publisher and professional bartender, writes on the very first page of his book, “There was published, by me, in San Francisco, the first Bartender’s Manual ever issued in the United States.”
Unfortunately, Johnson failed to mention Thomas’ book, which was published in 1862 (Johnson’s was published twenty years later in 1882). Nonetheless, Johnson’s book peaks an interest to anyone who has spent time reading about Jerry Thomas, especially since they were friends and contemporaries while still maintaining a healthy dose of competitiveness in the relationship. Johnson’s life isn’t as well documented as Thomas’ but we do have his masterpiece, Harry Johnson’s New and Improved Bartender’s Manual and a Guide for Hotels and Restaurants. (Which is currently being reprinted and is available through Mud Puddle Books on amazon.com.)
If you like old cocktail books, by all means pick this thing up. It is filled with 146 pages about how one should properly behave while working in a restaurant, the intricacies of tending bar, how one should approach getting a job in a bar, and much more. I would consider this mandatory reading for any bartender or restaurant manager who gives a rat’s ass as it is filled with invaluable information that hasn’t changed in the last 150 years – yet seems to still be a mystery to those involved in this business. His bluntness and common sense cuts through the bullshit and solves many of the world’s restaurants problems – so I recommend taking an hour and reading it.
Jerry Thomas vs. Harry Johnson
1. Seriously, lucky Jerry Thomas as Harry Johnson has to be one of the hardest names in the world to have.
When you think of delicious cocktails, Harry Johnson comes first
Women love Harry Johnson
When things get sticky, Harry Johnson will not pull out
Men need Harry Johnson
2. On the other hand, Harry Johnson has a way better mustache – that is Beard and Mustache Competition quality. I’m thinking that maybe Thomas lost some of his mustache in a preparation of the Blue Blazer.
3. Thomas gets points for flair – he tossed fire between two silver cups and he’s still better known today.
4. But Johnson gets the last point for just telling it how it is. You cannot read his book without getting a little smile on your face for his gumption.
- Columbine QuillenI am a mixologist bartender and this is my blog.