Growlers were common all over the US, prior to the profusion of bottled
beers, when the neighborhood tavern was the most likely source for the
family dinner beer. My dad, who was born in the early 20s, refers to
"rushing the growler", which was what the kid sent to the tavern was
supposed to do in order to get the beer home in good condition and in a
timely manner.

--Jeff Frane