On a rainy Thursday night in the basement speakeasy of the Colgate Inn, Colgate University students and Hamilton, N.Y., locals alike gathered for an evening of fall festivities at “Paint the Pint.” The Inn hosted the first of many upcoming events in The Library, the hidden bar that can only be accessed via a tucked-away staircase behind The Tavern, the Colgate Inn’s popular restaurant, on Sept. 26.
Opened in 2019, The Library was designed to resemble a Prohibition-era speakeasy, with dim lighting and plush leather armchairs that transport you back in time. The space is a welcome break from the typical bar scene in Hamilton, creating a warm atmosphere that allows you to unwind and socialize with friends. Due to staffing shortages after the COVID-19 pandemic, The Library was not able to operate on a full-time basis, leading the Inn’s owners to come up with an alternative plan to use their newly renovated space. Rather than staying open multiple nights a week, the speakeasy hosts events every Thursday night and is also available for private events.
This week’s “Paint the Pint” was sponsored by 1911 Established Distillery, a local cider brand, and was a fitting way to welcome the fall spirit. Tickets were $7 per person and, for those over 21, included a flight of cider samples from 1911 Established, delicious appetizers from the Colgate Inn, a 1911 Established cider glass to paint and a voucher for $5 off any food or drink item on the menu.
Patrons, like senior Abby Schnitzer, remarked on how fun and well-organized this event was, giving local residents and Colgate students a unique weeknight activity that was a welcome break from their usual schedules.
“The setup was super cute, and I loved trying out 1911’s different ciders,” Schnitzer said. “The Library itself was gorgeous and such a cozy spot. The hosts were so welcoming, always checking in on us and passing out appetizers.”
Senior Becca Ryan added how the well-priced tickets were just another bonus of “Paint the Pint.”
“Seriously, the best $7 I’ve spent lately!” Ryan exclaimed.
Events like “Paint the Pint” hosted by the Colgate Inn and other businesses in town allow students and Hamilton residents to come together in ways that they don’t usually get to. These non-school-sponsored events are also a great addition to students’ schedules, letting them step away from campus for a night and take advantage of what the town has to offer. Senior Natalie Schonfeld was excited to discover The Library.
“I was surprised to learn about the different activities that the Inn offers every Thursday night,” Schonfeld said. “These experiences are a great addition to our community.”
After Thursday, everyone was excited to be on the lookout for any upcoming activities, and promises to return were heard throughout The Library. Senior Colleen Mackey is already looking forward to other events scheduled on the Inn’s calendar this semester.
“I had a ton of fun sampling cider and painting glasses with my friends,” Mackey said. “I’m excited for future events hosted at the Colgate Inn, like the permanent bracelet night later this semester.”
Future evenings at The Library include bingo and trivia nights, as well as the annual “Prancer’s on Payne” pop-up bar, which begins Nov. 14 and will continue until the end of the semester. All upcoming events can be found on The Tavern’s website.
