Mixologist: Mather Homestead in Darien holding virtual event Staff FacebookTwitterEmail Here is the Mather Homestead's new Education Center's roof going up in a previous year. The homestead is having Derek Brown, a writer, mixologist and expert on the history, and culture of spirits and drinks for a virtual cocktail event Jan. 30, at 7 p.m.Contributed photo The Mather Homestead is hosting Derek Brown, a writer, mixologist and expert on the history, and culture of spirits and drinks for a virtual cocktail event Jan. 30, at 7 p.m. He will tell attendees stories of what beverages Founding Fathers consumed, which was not water, and show attendees how to mix up colonial-inspired cocktails that are meant for fire involved, and experienced mixologists.