Brewing in Milwaukee is Arcadia Publishing‘s newest addition to their Images of America series of books.  Written by Brenda Magee, Brewing in Milwaukee provides a historical summary and pictorial collage of the beginnings and evolution of the brewing industry in the city that is synonymous with beer in America.

As noted by the author, “Milwaukee is most famous for its booming brewing industry, which is directly tied to a surge in German immigration in the 1840s. These new citizens brought along their work ethic, culture, and a love for their native beverage. Not all immigrants arrived from Europe; many, like Richard Owens, came from Britain. Owens has been credited with establishing the first commercial brewery in the area in 1840. Other men followed, many of whom were already experienced in brewing, and seized the opportunity to start new businesses. Brand names were carved on the front of brewery buildings, deals were made with a handshake, partnerships were cultivated, and factory cities were raised. By 1860, nearly 200 breweries were in operation in Wisconsin, with more than 40 in Milwaukee alone. Of the original 40, four have stood the test of time: Blatz, Pabst, Schlitz, and Miller are still brewed in Milwaukee, right where they were born.”

Brewing in Milwaukee provides unique glimpses into these brewing industry stories of Milwaukee including Miller, Pabst, Schlitz, Blatz, Gettelman, and more. With a collection of more than 200 images (many never released), this book conveys the essence and historical significance of Milwaukee brewing from the 1840s to today. One of my favorite stories from the book is about how Frederick Pabst met his future wife by rescuing her when she fell off his ship. Any brewing history enthusiast should be excited to add this book to their library. The book is available through Arcadia Publishing at this link or by calling the toll-free number 888-313-2665.