Ale Syndicate worked with Eastland Disaster Historical Society and Liz Garibay, principal at History on Tap and EDHS board member to create The 844, an imperial pilsner commemorating the 844 Western Electric workers, their families and friends who lost their lives on July 24, 1915, in the SS Eastland disaster on the Chicago River.
The beer was inspired by the heritage of the victims, many of whom were Czech immigrants. The beer is a 9 percent ABV pilsner–golden, smooth and full-bodied, finished with Saaz hops. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to EDHS.
The 844 bottles will be distributed and available for purchase next week at various liquor stores by Lakeshore Beverage, and they'll include hangtags sharing the stories of nine people involved in the disaster—victim, responder or survivor.
If you can't get your hands on a bottle, the limited beer will be available on draft at locations throughout the city starting next week, including at Piece Brewery & Pizzeria, Sheffield's and Maria's Packaged Goods.
Special events will take place throughout the week, but you can get your first taste at a photo exhibit and tasting at Nisei Lounge in Lakeview at 6pm today.