Trafalgar Night at Home

Pusser's Rum and the Royal Navy

As far back as 1655, the Royal Navy has had a close relationship with rum. It all began with preparing for the long days aboard the ship with a daily ration of rum. This tradition consisted of about half a pint of rum and was distributed by the pursers, or Pussers, as they came to be known. This rum weighed between 54% to 57% ABV and became what we know today as navy-strength rum. It was tested for its strength by mixing the rum with gunpowder. If the gunpowder ignited, they knew the rum was "proof." Hence the name of our navy-strength Gunpowder Proof, which is the only rum still made today in the Admiral's exact specifications. 

This relationship between the Royal Navy and Pusser's Rum dates back to the iron men in their wooden ships. They found both revival and salvation in Pusser’s Rum, as well as companionship for downtime reverie. From the earliest days of the Royal Navy, these foolhardy brave hearts were issued a daily ration or “tot” of rum, that we now call Pusser's Rum.

This rum tradition rewarded heroism and eased defeat from 1655 until 1970 when some of the higher-ups decided rum was having too much fun with the sailing men. Blame it on the above deck skirmishes or the below deck antics, or simply sea legs getting the better of the jolly Jack Tars. We like to think the Royal Navy just wanted to keep the sea’s best kept secret—and best tasting one—to themselves.

Click here to purchase Pusser's Rum, the Original Royal Navy Rum.

Join Us for Trafalgar Night at Home

To celebrate alongside the Royal Navy, we have come together with the Royal Navy & Marines Charity to bring you Trafalgar Night at Home. Join us for the world’s largest Trafalgar night dinner and help us celebrate Nelson's famous victory. Every penny raised will be used to support Royal Navy and Marines, along with their families.

To take part in this event, you must first register here. Second, plan your dinner for you and your closest friends and family. Trafalgar Night is traditionally held on October 21st, but you may celebrate whenever works best for you. Third, make sure you have either your digital or postal Trafalgar pack if you'd like to continue this event traditionally. If not, feel free to use your own resources. Fourth, host your Trafalgar Night at home on your scheduled date, celebrating this triumphant victory. Finally, ask your guests to generously donate toward the support of the Royal Navy and Marines. For more details regarding this event, visit the RNMC's website, here.