NATIONAL HOT BUTTERED RUM DAY
On January 17th, National Hot Buttered Rum Day warms us up during mid-January.
#HotButteredRumDay
Depending on where you are on this January day, it may be warm, chilly, cold, or frigid. Enjoying a hot buttered rum drink would sure be a good way to warm up if you are in one of the latter three.
A mixed drink containing rum, butter, hot water or cider, sweetener, and spices (typically cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves), hot buttered rum is especially favored during the fall and winter months and is sometimes associated with the holiday season.
In the United States, hot buttered rum’s history dates back to the colonial days. It was in the 1650s when Jamaica began importing molasses to Colonial America. New England started opening distilleries where the colonists then began adding distilled rum to hot beverages such as toddies and nogs, creating hot buttered rum, eggnog and others.
Hot buttered rum is often made by blending a buttered rum batter with dark rum. Dark rum is a rum that has been barrel-aged for an extended length of time to retain a more intense molasses flavor. Those that prefer a milder or a spicier taste may choose the option of using light rum or spiced rum mixed with the batter.
HOW TO OBSERVE HOT BUTTERED RUM DAY
Warm up with a mug of hot buttered rum!
Use #HotButteredRumDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL HOT BUTTERED RUM DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this hot beverage celebration. We may even have one while we search.
Hot Buttered Rum FAQ
Q. Is there a difference between hot buttered rum and a Tom and Jerry?
A. Yes. While both are hot, alcoholic beverages, their ingredients differ. Tom and Jerrys are also often made with rum, though they can also be made with whiskey or vodka. Both are also spiced. However, a batter instead of butter (see what we did there?) is used to make a Tom and Jerry rich and creamy.
Q. Is honey a good addition to hot buttered rum?
A. Yes. Honey adds a little sweetness and complements the butter and spice of the rum quite well.
January 17th Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) History
1871
Inventor Andrew S. Hallidie received the first U.S. patent for the cable car. His invention described in U.S. patent No.110,971 consisted of a series of pulleys and cables designed to transport a bucket or car along a track. In 1873, Hallidie oversaw the installation of the first cable car in San Francisco, California at Clay Street.
1928
The U.S. Patent Office issued patent No. 1656,522 for an automatic photo-developing machine to Anatol M. Josepho. He called it a Photomaton, and today it’s called a photo booth.
1929
Popeye the Sailor Man appears for the first time in the Thimble Theatre comic strip. The artist, E.C. Segar created the strip and the spinach-loving character.
1955
The USS Nautilus, the world’s first nuclear-powered submarine, departed on its first voyage under the leadership of Commander Eugene P. Wilkinson.
January 17th Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) Birthdays
Benjamin Franklin – 1706
One of America’s most recognized Founding Fathers, Franklin was instrumental in several facets of the American Revolution. He was also a prolific inventor and man of science.
Al Capone – 1899
The most notorious gangster of the Prohibition era, Capone led the Chicago Outfit.
Betty White – 1922
The American actress and comedian’s enduring career spans more than 80 years. Her performances began in the days of radio and soon landed her first sitcom, Life with Elizabeth. Through the years, White has thrilled audiences on shows like The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Golden Girls, and Hot in Cleveland.
James Earl Jones – 1931
Considered one of the most respected actors on stage and screen, Jones’ career spans more than six decades. His resonant voice and powerful stage presence leave an indelible performance on every role he plays.
Michelle Obama – 1964
The 46th First Lady of the United States graduated from Harvard Law in 1988. Married to Barack Obama, the 44th president of the United States, she was the first African American First Lady. During her time in the White House, she launched several initiatives aimed toward education and wellness.