By Christina Noekleby, Social Director

The first JCI Southampton #Thirstday networking social was held on April 2nd, at the newly opened The Dancing Man Brewery. The historic building is filled with edgy, quirky and endearing decorations, but more importantly an incredible atmosphere!

For this networking social, we had our own private area, with pretzels and nuts to share. Not to mention, the delicious array of ales, wines and other drinks available. It would be rude not to try AT LEAST one!

The turnout for the social was fantastic and there were some new members to speak with and also some familiar faces. The Dancing Man Brewery was the perfect setting, with a relaxing environment for people to meet and network over an ale.

For those that wanted to, a tour of the premises was given and fascinating history presented of the building itself. Previously known as The Wool House, the brewery used to be a prison, and some names could still be seen carved on the beams of the roof!

The plaque on the building reads:

This building was erected in the 14th century for the storage of wool before export to the continent in the galleys and carracks of Venice and Genoa. The wool trade was the basis of Southampton's prosperity in the middle ages. During the Napoleonic wars The Wool House was used to accommodate French prisoners of war, some of whose names may be seen carved on the beams of the roof. This building was restored by the city corporation and opened as a Maritime Museum in June 1966.

The Dancing Man Brewery did not disappoint, and will definitely be on the cards for hosting a future social event. It was great to meet with JCI members in a relaxing environment and have an opportunity to learn more about the history of the building we were in.

JCI Southampton’s monthly networking socials are great for professionals in and around Southampton looking to engage and meet likeminded individuals.  If you’d like to come to our next social, please get in touch with social@jcisouthampton.org.uk or check our Events page at: http://www.jcisouthampton.co.uk/events/