The Smithsonian's National Museum of American History will launch a three-year effort to document and preserve the recent history of beer brewing in the U.S. as a result of a donation from the Brewers Association.

The effort is part of the "Smithsonian Food History" project. Museum staff will work with the Brewers Association, American brewers and beer historians to piece together the growth of the brewing industry in modern times.

"Brewing has a long and deep connection to our country's history, and the museum's collections explore the history of beer from the late 19th to early 20th centuries," said John Gray, director of the museum. "The support of the Brewers Association allows our staff to collect the more recent history, including the impact of small and independent craft brewers who continue to advance the U.S. beer culture and inspire brewers worldwide."

The bulk of the museum's brewing history collection dates from the 1870s to the 1960s, according to a statement from the association.

"America is a beer destination," Brewers Association CEO Bob Pease said. "We are honored to support this effort and work with the National Museum of American History to chronicle and showcase the significant achievements small and independent brewers have made throughout this nation's history."

Neither the association nor the Smithsonian disclosed the size of the donation.

The Smithsonian has a website about the project: http://s.si.edu/1rwvO1t

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