Genesee Brew House / North American Breweries - Craft Beer in Rochester, New York

📜 Short History:

The Genesee Brew House, part of North American Breweries, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century.

The Genesee Brewing Company was founded in 1878 by Mathius Kondolf in Rochester, New York. The brewery was built along the Genesee River, which was used to transport raw materials to the brewery and finished beer to the market. The brewery's location also provided access to the pure, clear water of Hemlock Lake, which was essential for brewing high-quality beer.

In 1889, Louis A. Wehle, a German immigrant, joined the Genesee Brewing Company. He eventually became the president of the company in 1911. However, the brewery was forced to close during Prohibition. During this time, Wehle started a new business, the Genesee Brewing Company, which produced non-alcoholic beverages.

After Prohibition ended in 1933, Wehle reestablished the Genesee Brewing Company and began producing beer again. The company grew rapidly and by the 1960s, it was one of the largest breweries in the United States.

In 1999, the Genesee Brewing Company was acquired by High Falls Brewing Company. However, in 2009, the company was sold to North American Breweries, a national platform for investments and growth in the beer and alcoholic beverage sectors. North American Breweries also owns other iconic American breweries, including Labatt USA and Magic Hat Brewing Company.

In 2012, the Genesee Brew House was opened. This was a $9.5 million renovation of the 9,200 square-foot, century-old packaging center, transforming it into a beer destination, featuring interactive exhibits, multi-media content, a gift shop, pilot brewery, and pub-style restaurant.

Today, the Genesee Brew House is a testament to the Genesee Brewing Company's 140-year history and its commitment to brewing quality beer. It continues to be a significant part of Rochester's culture and a popular destination for beer lovers.