15 of The Oldest Breweries in America
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America’s brewing history is as rich and varied as the flavors in a craft beer flight. With over 8,000 breweries operating in the United States today, it’s interesting to think of how it all began. You could be a beer lover, history buff, or world traveler; understanding American brewing’s roots can offer insight into today’s colorful beer culture.
According to the Brewers Association, the U.S. beer market generated $72.2 billion in 2022, with historic breweries contributing significantly to this thriving industry. This article takes you on a tour of 15 of the oldest breweries in America, highlighting their stories, traditions, and legacies.
Yuengling (Pottsville, Pennsylvania – 1829)
Yuengling — America’s Oldest Brewery; has been brewed since 1829. This family-owned business was founded by David G. Yuengling and has weathered wars, Prohibition and even change in consumer taste related to beer.
Today, it is still a strong brand, and its Traditional Lager can be enjoyed almost anywhere in America. Its ability to blend tradition with innovation kept it on top of the American beer scene long after countless others were forced out of business.
F. & M. Schaefer Brewing Company (New York City, New York – 1842)
Even though the original brewery has moved from its New York roots, Schaefer Beer remains an integral part of American brewing history. Founded in 1842, Schaefer was an early adopter of refrigeration for brewing.
Its renowned Schaefer Lager still lives on today, marking one of the brews that secured a place in America’s beer culture landscape.
Pabst Brewing Company – Milwaukee, Wisconsin (1844)
Pabst Blue Ribbon, or PBR, as we lovingly call it these days, has a history as rich as its malt flavor. Established in 1844, it took a special place in the hearts of the American people. It made history by becoming the first American brewery to produce over one million barrels of beer.
Its iconic Blue Ribbon logo came after winning an award at the World’s Fair in Chicago in 1893, a title that has stuck for over a century.
Anheuser-Busch – St. Louis, Missouri (1852)
If you know of Budweiser, you know Anheuser-Busch. This brewery was established in 1852 by Eberhard Anheuser, becoming nationally successful once Adolphus Busch stepped into the scene and launched Budweiser lager beer in 1876.
Anheuser-Busch pioneered pasteurization to keep beer fresh, allowing for broader distribution. This innovation, along with their iconic Budweiser brand, helped them become one of the largest breweries in the world.
Rheingold Brewery (New York City, New York – 1854)
Though Rheingold shut down its original operations in 1976, it came back in the 1990s, bringing back its classic lager, a New York favorite. Established in 1854 by a pair of German immigrants, Rheingold became famous for its dry lager, and the Miss Rheingold beauty contest was the masterpiece of its marketing campaign.
The revival of Rheingold highlights how historic brands can still find love in a modern market.
Stroh Brewing Company (Detroit, Michigan – 1850)
Stroh’s was founded in 1850 by Bernhard Stroh, who began with a simple recipe he brought from Germany. According to Forbes, Stroh’s was America’s third-largest beer producer by the 1980s, and its market capitalization hit $700 million in 1988.
Known for its family-driven business model, the brewery also survived Prohibition by switching to making ice cream, birch beer, and soft drinks. Although it has changed ownership, the Stroh’s brand is still loved today.
August Schell Brewing Company – New Ulm, Minnesota (1860)
August Schell Brewing Company is the second-oldest family-run brewery in the United States. It was founded in 1860, right before the American Civil War.
It is famous for its German-style beers, which retain traditional brewing techniques while adapting to modern tastes. Today, Schell’s remains a family-owned business, which is why it is one of the longest-running family-owned breweries in the U.S.
Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company – Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin (1867)
Since its establishment in 1867, Leinenkugel’s has been family-owned and has gained a refreshing reputation for its inventive flavors and seasonal brews. They have a devoted following thanks to their dedication to tradition and quality.
Minhas Craft Brewery – Monroe, Wisconsin (1845)
Established in 1845, Minhas is the 18th largest craft brewery in America. Having survived Prohibition, the Great Depression, and fire, it continues producing historic beer recipes and has emerged as a significant force in craft brewing.
Their products, such as the Lazy Mutt Farmhouse Ale, remind consumers of their rich heritage and commitment to high-quality brewing.
Hudepohl Brewing Company (Cincinnati, Ohio – 1885)
Hudepohl may not be as well-known as some other breweries on this list, but it was a Cincinnati staple during the 19th century. It was established in 1885 by Ludwig Hudepohl II.
Hudepohl 14-K Lager was responsible for the brewery’s fame; its historic buildings are still a popular tourist attraction today.
Miller Brewing Company – Milwaukee, Wisconsin (1855)
Everyone is familiar with Miller. Fredrick Miller established this brewery in 1855, and its innovations in bottling and refrigeration completely changed the American beer industry.
Miller Brewing Company introduced the first light beer, Miller Lite, in 1975. This product remains one of the most popular light beers on the market.
Anchor Brewing Company (San Francisco, California – 1896)
Anchor Brewing was a small brewery founded in 1896, and it took on a new life after Prohibition. Their Anchor Steam Beer became well-known as a craft brew in the 20th century and is still recognized as the founder of the craft beer movement.
Sadly, Anchor Brewing shut down in 2023 and intended to liquidate the company.
F.X. Matt Brewing Company – Cooperstown, New York (1888)
F.X. Matt Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery in Utica, New York. It is the fourth oldest family-owned brewery in the United States since 1888. Their best-selling item is the Saranac beer line.
Soft drinks, such as root beer and ginger beer, are also available. Their inventive spirit and commitment to quality continue to inspire the craft beer movement.
New Glarus Brewing Company – New Glarus, Wisconsin (1993)
New Glarus Brewing Company was founded in 1993 in America. It is privately owned and produces its products only there. Based on sales volume, it’s the fifteenth-largest craft brewer and the 25th brewing company in the United States.
New Glarus Brewing Company has garnered a loyal following by refusing to sell outside Wisconsin. Their commitment to local quality has made them a fun favorite among beer lovers.
Spoetzl Brewery – Shiner, Texas (1909)
Spoetzl, a United States brewery, was established in 1909; it produces multiple lines of Shiner beers, with Shiner Bock being the flagship variety. The Spoetzl Brewery, established by German and Czech immigrants, is well-known for its unique and delicious beers.
Their Shiner Bock is a Texas staple, beloved for its rich, distinct flavor.
Disclaimer- This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information
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