Today Is October 19

Mary Edith Keyburn passed away on October 19, 2010, at the age of 95 with a gin and tonic at her side. Her favorite tipple had been smuggled into her hospital room in a water bottle and served in a teacup.

Gin and tonic. By NotFromUtrecht

In 2010 of Mary Edith Keyburn's favorite drink, her family and friends founded International Gin and Tonic Day in her honor. Each year on October 19th gin-lovers can enjoy their favorite drinks in the time-honored tradition.

Gin and tonic was used to prevent and treat malaria in the 1800s. Tonic containing the anti-malarial drug quinine was very bitter, so gin was added to make it tasty.

It’s the quinine in gin and tonics that makes them glow in ultra-violet light.