As we make our way through our 10th year of business – and the launch of a completely new brand in Lake State Beer – we’ve gotten a bit nostalgic about the early days. That, combined with some great questions that out-of-state patrons recently asked about the history of Michigan craft beer, led us to think that a little blog post on the topic might be in order. There are, of course, much more thorough resources on the topic, but a little summary to read while enjoying a pint on a sunny patio – that never hurt anyone!
Full disclosure, it’s a busy week around these parts (launching Indiana!), so we leaned on ChatGPT to help! We did edit a bit, but if the writing doesn’t sound like us – blame the robots 😉
Early Days: Laying the Foundation
Michigan’s journey into the world of craft beer began long before the term “craft beer” became a household name. The roots can be traced back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when small, local breweries were common across the state. These early breweries were often family-owned and operated, providing fresh, locally produced beer to their communities. Muskegon Brewing Company – to which we frequently pay homage – is just one great example of these early breweries.
However, the onset of Prohibition in 1920 dealt a severe blow to the brewing industry in Michigan, as it did across the United States. Many breweries were forced to close their doors, and the culture of local brewing nearly disappeared. When Prohibition ended in 1933, the brewing industry began to recover, but it would take several decades for the craft beer movement to gain momentum.
The Craft Beer Renaissance: 1980s and 1990s
The modern craft beer movement in Michigan began to take shape in the 1980s, inspired by a nationwide resurgence of interest in diverse and flavorful beers. In 1982, Bell’s Brewery, founded by Larry Bell in Kalamazoo, became one of the first modern craft breweries in Michigan. Initially operating as a homebrew supply shop, Bell’s began brewing its own beer in 1985, and quickly grew a loyal following.
The 1990s saw a significant increase in the number of craft breweries in Michigan. Founders Brewing Co., established in Grand Rapids in 1997, became a prominent player in the industry with its innovative and bold beers. These pioneering breweries paved the way for others, and by the end of the decade, Michigan had firmly established itself as a key player in the national craft beer scene.
2000s: Expansion and Innovation
The new millennium brought rapid growth and innovation to Michigan’s craft beer industry. Breweries began experimenting with new styles, ingredients, and brewing techniques, pushing the boundaries of what beer could be. The popularity of craft beer festivals, such as the Michigan Brewers Guild‘s Summer Beer Festival, highlighted the growing enthusiasm for locally produced beer.
This period also saw the rise of microbreweries and brewpubs, which offered unique and local beer experiences. Breweries like Short’s Brewing Company in Bellaire, founded in 2004, and Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales in Dexter, founded in 2004, became known for their creative and high-quality brews. These establishments not only contributed to the diversity of beer available but also helped to build strong communities around craft beer culture.
Other notable breweries that emerged during this time include Brewery Vivant in Grand Rapids, known for its Belgian-inspired ales and commitment to sustainability, and Dark Horse Brewing Company in Marshall, which gained a loyal following with its bold, flavorful beers (and one crazzzzy tv show). Meanwhile, Kuhnhenn Brewing Company in Warren carved out a niche with its innovative and often experimental brews, attracting beer enthusiasts looking for something different. For us at Pigeon Hill, all of these breweries represented our “big brothers,” to whom we looked up and hoped to emulate.
Founders Brewing Co., established in Grand Rapids in 1997, continued to grow and innovate, releasing iconic beers like their Centennial IPA and the highly acclaimed KBS (Kentucky Breakfast Stout). Founders’ success helped to put Michigan on the map as a major player in the craft beer industry, drawing attention from beer lovers and industry experts alike.
The increasing number of breweries and the diversity of their offerings created a vibrant and dynamic craft beer scene in Michigan. Brewpubs and tasting rooms became popular social hubs, where people could gather to enjoy fresh, locally brewed beer and connect with others who shared their passion. This sense of community and the high quality of the beers being produced helped to foster a loyal and growing customer base.
By the end of the decade, Michigan’s craft beer industry had firmly established itself as a leader in the national craft beer movement. The state’s breweries were regularly winning awards at national and international competitions, and Michigan’s beer was being recognized for its excellence and innovation. This period of expansion and creativity set the stage for the thriving industry that exists today.
Present Day: A Thriving Industry
Today, Michigan is home to more than 400 craft breweries, making it one of the top states for craft beer in the country. The industry continues to grow and evolve, with new breweries opening regularly and established ones expanding their operations. Michigan’s craft breweries are known for their innovation, producing a wide range of styles from traditional lagers and ales to experimental and barrel-aged beers.
The state’s diverse geography and rich agricultural resources provide breweries with access to high-quality ingredients, including locally grown hops, barley, and fruits. This focus on local sourcing further strengthens the connection between Michigan’s breweries and their communities.
A key aspect of the current craft beer scene in Michigan – and easily one of our favorite things about our industry – is the strong sense of community and collaboration among brewers. It’s not uncommon to see breweries working together on special projects or collaborating on unique brews. This spirit of cooperation helps to foster innovation and a sense of camaraderie within the industry.
Michigan’s craft beer culture is also celebrated through numerous festivals and events held throughout the year. The Michigan Brewers Guild organizes several annual festivals, including the Summer Beer Festival in Ypsilanti and the Winter Beer Festival in Grand Rapids, which draw thousands of beer enthusiasts from across the state and beyond. These events provide a platform for breweries to showcase their latest creations and for beer lovers to experience the diversity and quality of Michigan’s craft beer firsthand.
The economic impact of the craft beer industry in Michigan is significant as well. The industry supports thousands of jobs, from brewing and distribution to hospitality and tourism. Many breweries have become important fixtures in their local communities, contributing to the revitalization of neighborhoods and the growth of local economies.
Furthermore, the rise of beer tourism has brought a new wave of visitors to the state. Enthusiasts travel from near and far to explore Michigan’s beer trails, visit its breweries, and taste its award-winning beers. This influx of tourists has had a positive impact on other local businesses, including restaurants, hotels, and retail shops, creating a thriving ecosystem centered around craft beer.
Pigeon Hill Brewing Company: Part of the Story
At Pigeon Hill Brewing Company, we are proud to be part of Michigan’s rich craft beer heritage. Since our founding, we have strived to create exceptional beers that reflect the spirit and creativity of the state’s brewing community. From our flagship brews to our seasonal and experimental offerings, we are committed to delivering a unique and enjoyable beer experience to our customers.
Our journey began with a simple goal: to brew great beer that we and our friends would love to drink – and to use that beer as a tool for improving our community. Over the years, Pigeon Hill has grown from a small local brewery into a respected name in the craft beer industry. Our success is built on a foundation of quality, innovation, and a deep connection to our community.
One of our cornerstones is a dedication to using high-quality ingredients. We source many of our ingredients locally, supporting Michigan’s agricultural industry and ensuring the freshest possible components for our beers. This commitment to local sourcing not only enhances the quality of our brews but also reinforces our ties to the community.
Innovation has always been at the heart of what we do as well. While we take pride in our core lineup of beers, we are constantly experimenting with new styles, flavors, and brewing techniques. This spirit of innovation keeps our offerings fresh and exciting, providing our customers with new experiences and tastes to enjoy. Whether it’s a barrel-aged stout, a fruit-infused ale, or a crisp, refreshing lager, we strive to push the boundaries of what beer can be. With Lake State, we’ve taken innovation in a new direction – emulating the classic American lager; the type of beer we grew up drinking, and the type of beer we love to enjoy on a warm summer day.
And of course, community involvement may be one of the most defining aspects of our identity. We believe that a brewery should be more than just a place to enjoy great beer; it should be a hub for social connection and community engagement. Throughout the year, we host events, support local causes, and collaborate with other local businesses to strengthen the fabric of our community. From charity fundraisers to neighborhood festivals, we are committed to making a positive impact in Muskegon and beyond. We believe in our hometown, and we’re proud to say that we’re exporting beer from “beautiful Muskegon, MI.”
As we look to the future, we remain inspired by the history and growth of craft beer in Michigan. We are excited to continue contributing to this vibrant industry and to share our passion for great beer with the world. Our journey is far from over, and we can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds. Cheers to the past, present, and future of Michigan craft beer!
