Springfield, Mass. – In 2014, White Lion Brewing Company staked a claim in the “City of Firsts” as the first craft brewery to go to market since prohibition. While White Lion searched for a location, it brewed at contract brewing facilities within Massachusetts. Throughout the journey, the Company remained true to its commitment to bring a full production brewery to the city of Springfield.
Mayor Domenic Sarno a fan of White Lion’s Cream Ale states, “Springfield’s renaissance is vibrant and White Lion returning light industrial manufacturing to downtown is a major step toward it becoming a downtown destination and eclectic venue.”
The city of Springfield has a rich history in brewing beer; several local manufacturers like Springfield and Commonwealth Brewing provided beer to the region. Historian Wayne Phaneuf, previously shared, “at one time Springfield was a center for brewers of beer, with the massive Highland Brewing on State Street, at the present site of the MassMutual Financial Group.” In 1876 the grandfather of Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss) co-founded one of Springfield’s earliest breweries, Kalmbach and Geisel. By the late 1940’s all beer manufacturing in the city had shuttered.
A local fixture in the craft beer scene, Managing Partner and Head Brewer, Mike Yates shared, “We are incredibly excited to begin brewing in our own space. This not only allows the company to increase production but it also positions us to get very creative. We have a number of new releases scheduled including an incredible collaboration with eastern MA powerhouse, Vitamin Sea Brewing.”
White Lion awaits the arrival of several key custom orders to finalize the taproom and kitchen. Until its completion, White Lion will work to provide retail beer to go events.
About White Lion Brewing
White Lion’s grace symbolizes humankind’s goodness; it is an extension beyond race, color, creed or gender. The first craft beer brand to go to market in Springfield, Massachusetts, has all of the necessary ingredients for a successful and sustainable future: A compelling brand, a smart plan for growth, and a commitment to being a vital part of the city’s renaissance. More than a brewer, White Lion intends to serve as a catalyst for Springfield’s revitalization.