Cincinnati’s Brewing History

Dating all the way back to 1812, the history of brewing in Cincinnati is a long and illustrious narrative. In the mid-19th century, the Queen City’s rapidly expanding German population definitively transformed the industry, making Cincinnati one of the nation’s foremost brewing centers. Principally based in the vibrant Over-the-Rhine district, the golden age of brewing in Cincinnati saw the creation of architecturally spectacular brewery structures, a proliferation of related industries, as well as an abundance of saloons and beer gardens. The enactment of Prohibition crippled this formerly booming industry, however, and although local brewers returned to revive their trade following the repeal of Prohibition, the industry would never regain its former prominence. These days, Cincinnati’s brewing culture is experiencing a multifaceted renaissance with a promising outlook. Cincinnati’s Brewing History offers a concise overview of the history of brewing and beer culture in the region through vintage and contemporary images, as well as brewing collectibles.