Rum Rickey

The Rickey History

Bartender George A. Williamson and Democratic lobbyist Col. Joe Rickey created "The Rickey" using bourbon in the 1880s at Shoomaker's Resort, a Washington D.C. bar originally located near the National Theatre but later moved to "Rum Row" just around the corner from "Newspaper Row."

"The Rickey" became a worldwide sensation a decade later when it was mixed with gin. Rum shortly followed.

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The Mix

1 1/2 oz. Rum (light or dark)
Lime juice (about 1/2 of a lime)
Soda water
Ice

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Toots's Rum Rickey

Toots's Rum Rickey is made with Bacardi Superior and the juice of half a lime. It's served in an 8 oz. highball with lime pinwheels.

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Home of "The Rickey" at its location on "Rum Row in 1916'ish.
(Library of Congress)

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