They are respites from the pressures of everyday life, places to share company and conversation--or just release the tensions of the day--over a drink. But despite their simple mission, modern saloons often harbor surprisingly powerful technology.

MODERN MARVELSŪ bellies up to the bar for a fascinating look at the history of the American saloon from an interesting angle. From the ladle and tin cup days on the frontier to Billy Bob's, a three-acre drinking palace in Fort Worth, scholars (including the author of Beer in America) and liquor-industry insiders examine the developments that gave rise to the modern bar. You'll find out about the origins of the ubiquitous brass foot rail, see how the advent of refrigerated railcars affected the industry, and visit some of the most storied watering holes of the past and present.

You'll never look at your local bar the same way again.