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It's been one of those Pusser's Rum kind of days!Making plans for Black Tot Day 31st July...
Ah, Black Tot Day –
an iconic and rather bittersweet day in naval history! On 31 July 1970, the Royal Navy marked its last-ever official rum ration with what came to be known as Black Tot Day. It was the end of a centuries-old tradition, and the day was observed with mixed feelings by sailors, many of whom mourned the loss of what they considered a cherished and morale-boosting ritual.
The Rum Ration – A Brief History
The practice of issuing a daily rum ration began in 1655, during the days of wooden ships and iron men. The idea was to provide sailors with a warming, energising drink to boost morale and keep them in high spirits during long voyages and harsh conditions. At first, straight rum was served, but in 1740, Admiral Edward Vernon ordered it to be diluted with water to reduce drunkenness, creating what became known as grog. Lime or lemon juice was often added to the mixture, which incidentally helped prevent scurvy, though they didn’t realise it was the vitamin C doing the job at the time.
Sailors were issued one-eighth of a pint (or 70ml) of rum per day, served at midday. Senior rates and officers could choose to forgo their rum, receiving extra cash instead. The rum itself was high-proof, typically around 54% alcohol.
Why Was Rum Rationing Important?
Morale: Life at sea could be gruelling, with long hours, harsh weather, and often little comfort. The rum ration was a small but meaningful gesture that provided a sense of camaraderie and something to look forward to each day.
Health: Before the advent of clean drinking water on ships, alcohol helped prevent illnesses from contaminated water. Rum mixed with water (grog) was safer than stagnant water from barrels.
Tradition and Discipline: The ritual of the rum ration became a symbolic part of naval life. It was issued under strict discipline, with a ceremony ensuring fairness, which helped maintain order and tradition within the ranks.
The End of the Rum Ration
By the mid-20th century, attitudes towards alcohol consumption aboard warships had begun to change. With modernisation, technological advancements, and the increasingly complex tasks required of sailors, concerns arose about alcohol impairing judgment, particularly on ships equipped with advanced weaponry and systems.
In 1970, the Admiralty decided that the daily rum ration was no longer compatible with the professionalism demanded of a modern navy. On 31 July, sailors were issued their final ration, and some marked the day with mock funerals for the "tot," complete with black armbands and sombre ceremonies. The final toast was:�"The Queen, God bless her."
Join us on Black Tot Day for a Rum Tasting.
Flight of Six top rums £25.00
Sailor's Afternoon Tea £25.00
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Old Foundry Court, 60A Fore Street, TQ5 8DZ Brixham, United Kingdom, 60a Fore Street, Brixham, TQ5 8, United Kingdom,Brixham
