Shebeen
Term from the Brauwerkstatt brewing glossary, category “History and beer culture”.
Explanation
Originally an illegal, private bar, especially in South Africa’s townships, where black people were not allowed to buy “European” alcohol under apartheid. They were often run by women, the “shebeen queens”. Today many shebeens are legal meeting places.
Test your knowledge
What was a “shebeen” in South Africa?
- A clay pot for sorghum beer
- A gold miners’ beer festival
- A secret bar in the townships, often run by women
Show answer
Correct: A secret bar in the townships, often run by women. Under apartheid black people were long not allowed to buy “European” alcohol, so shebeens were illegal meeting places.