Culinary History Enthusiasts of Wisconsin (CHEW)

press release: “Stacking Brooms: Food & Drink Traditions in Curling Clubs” Presented by Anne Pryor

With its 16th-century Scottish roots, curling is a tradition-laden sport. Curling has special status in Wisconsin, with the three oldest U.S. clubs in continuous existence (Milwaukee, Poynette, and Portage) and more curling clubs than any other state (28). Curling honors its sociality off the ice as much as its competition on the ice. This presentation will highlight drinking traditions that have continued over the centuries and favorite foodways found especially in Wisconsin curling clubs.

Anne Pryor is an avid curler who has enjoyed applying her skills in folklore to her favorite sport. Pryor is the former state folklorist of Wisconsin, based at the Wisconsin Arts Board. She has written for the encyclopedia, Ethnic American Food Today (2015, ed. Lucy Long) and presented on Wisconsin foodways in multiple festivals and cultural tours. She holds a Ph.D. in Anthropology & Folklore and wishes she had started curling earlier in life.