Glasstown Brewing Company in downtown Wallaceburg is officially open for business.
A special ceremony was held on Saturday morning, May 20, 2023, which included Wallaceburg Legion members, a pipe band from the Chatham Legion and Glasstown Brewing owner Todd Shepley driving some of his family and staff down to Branch 18.
@Glasstownbrewco holds grand opening in downtown #Wallaceburg 🍻 pic.twitter.com/RofdWfPNKs
— Sydenham Current (@SydenhamCurrent) May 20, 2023
Shepley and his crew delivered the first keg of Glasstown beer to the Legion.
“Our team has been working round the clock to be ready for you, and we are committed to providing you with the best experience possible,” Glasstown officials posted on social media.
“However, we also expect to learn, change and improve along the way. If you’re visiting us this weekend, we ask for your support, patience and feedback, so we can work towards our goal of bringing the best to the ‘Burg!”
Dana Haggith recently caught up with Shepley and master brewer David Draper for an interview. Listen, below:
Shepley said he was inspired to launch this new venture when travelling in the United States and experiencing great waterfront breweries.
He purchased the property at 331 James Street in Wallaceburg to bring that experience, and more, to Chatham-Kent.
Glasstown also features a fully serviced tap room, chef-run kitchen, a massive patio, and a gorgeous view of the Sydenham River.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Glasstown Brewing Company to downtown Wallaceburg,” said Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, in a press release.
“This exciting endeavour not only adds to the charm of our community but also showcases the ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant local economy. I’m confident that Glasstown will be a go-to destination for residents and visitors and will become a fixture among CK’s amazing craft beer options.”
Municipal officials say Glasstown Brewing Company isn’t stopping at the first floor.
Their historic James Street building, which was built in 1875, is undergoing significant redevelopment beyond the addition of the brewery.
The second phase of development includes adding four suites to the second floor and adding an event space to the third floor with a capacity of around 100 guests.
Stuart McFadden, director of economic development and tourism services, emphasized the positive impact the brewery would have on the local economy.
“I want to congratulate Todd and his team on this historic milestone for Downtown Wallaceburg,” McFadden said in a media release.
“Glasstown Brewing Company will undoubtedly be a massive draw to the Wallaceburg core for both CK locals and tourists alike. This investment is a testament to the Shepley family’s entrepreneurial spirit and their commitment to Wallaceburg’s continued growth.”
More details about the brewery can be found at https://www.glasstownbrewingco.ca/.
