What is The Oldest Brewery in The State of Ohio?
What is The Oldest Brewery in The State of Ohio?
Ohio has a rich and deeply rooted brewing history, stretching back to the 19th century when German immigrants brought their love of beer to the state. While the modern craft beer scene is booming, one brewery stands as a testament to this incredible heritage, holding the title of the oldest continuously operating brewery in Ohio: Cincinnati's own Christian Moerlein Brewing Co.
A Cincinnati Original: Christian Moerlein, Ohio's Oldest Brewery
The story of Christian Moerlein begins in 1853 when a Bavarian immigrant named Christian Moerlein established his brewery in Cincinnati's historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood. This area, heavily populated by German immigrants, was once home to dozens of breweries. Moerlein's commitment to brewing high-quality, traditional German-style lagers quickly earned his brewery a stellar reputation, and it grew to become one of the largest in the country.
Surviving Prohibition:
Like all American breweries, Christian Moerlein faced its most significant challenge with the onset of national Prohibition in 1920. While the brand was forced to stop brewing beer, it managed to survive by producing other products, including near-beer and soft drinks. However, it was a difficult period, and although the brewery resumed operations after Prohibition was repealed, it, like many historic American breweries, eventually ceased operations in the mid-20th century.
The Modern Revival:
The legacy of Christian Moerlein was revived in the modern craft beer era. The brand was brought back, dedicated to brewing beers with the same commitment to quality as its founder. Today, the Christian Moerlein Malt House Taproom in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood stands as a testament to this history, serving a variety of beers that pay homage to the city's brewing heritage. This revival and continued operation allow it to maintain its claim as the oldest brewery name in Ohio.
Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. holds the distinguished title of Ohio's oldest brewery, with roots stretching back to 1853. Its story mirrors the history of American brewing—from its 19th-century glory days and its survival through Prohibition to its modern craft revival. As a foundational piece of Cincinnati's rich German and brewing heritage, it stands as a proud landmark in the Buckeye State's vibrant beer scene.
Sources:
- Christian Moerlein Brewing Co. Official Website
- The Cincinnati Museum Center & Cincinnati Historical Society
- The Over-the-Rhine Brewery District Community Urban Redevelopment Corp.
- Ohio Craft Brewers Association
- Historical records and news archives on Cincinnati brewing history
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