Today in 1939, US Patent 2173529 A was issued, an invention of Valentine Beecher, for his “Barrel-Tapping Apparatus.” There’s no Abstract, although in the description it includes this summary:
The invention forming the subject matter of this application relates to barrel bung and barrel tapping apparatus generally; and more particularly to such apparatus adapted for use in sealing or drawing of liquids from barrels, casks, vessels, etc., irrespective of position, or arranged in superposed rows with their axes substantially horizontal or vertical.
The main object of the invention is to provide a compact bung and tapping arrangement by means of which a straight or curved draught tube of metal or any material may be inserted through the bung and into such position within the barrel as to facilitate the removal of part, or all of the liquid contents, whenever desired.
A further object of the invention is to provide a bung that is non-rigid and extremely flexible and a tapping construction requiring less physical force or pressure than would otherwise have to be created by mechanical means, adapted for use with straight or curved glass draught tubing. to enable the liquid contents of the barrels to be dispensed; and also preventing such contents making contact with metal or other substances which might have an injurious effect upon the liquids dispensed, if so desired.
