The variety of liquid refreshments available in early American homes and taverns, who was drinking what, when and where, and how they were processed, procured, stored and served is the focus of a symposium sponsored by the Fairfax County Park Authority and the History Department at George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Presentations explore the social, technological and economic history associated with beverages in early American homes and taverns in topics such as home and commercial beverage production, consumption patterns, imported beverages and trade. Discussions also investigate the material culture of table wares and containers in which beverages were stored, prepared and consumed. Speakers include Eleanor Breen (Mount Vernon), Frank Clark (Colonial Williamsburg), Ellen Denker (Independent Historian), David Hildebrand (Colonial Music Institute) and Justin Sarafin (Monticello.) Interpretive activities, tabletop displays, and sale of resource books accompany the program. Cost: $65.00. Advance registration is required and must be received by March 21, 2005. To request a registration form, email the address provided below, or phone Historic Collections at the following phone number. Susan Clark Fairfax County Park Authority 12055 Government Center Parkway Suite 927 Fairfax, VA 22035 Phone: (703) 631-1429 Fax: (703) 631-8319 Email: [log in to unmask] Visit the website at http://www.co.fairfax.va.us/parks/collections/events.htm