Louisville's Breweries

All across the world, people are familiar with Kentucky's fine bourbon, and Louisville's played a big part in building the brand - and continues to do so. What's not common knowledge though is throughout it's history, Louisville's also been home to literally dozens of breweries. Some were a flash in the pan; others enjoyed decades of regional, national, even global success. They're all gone now, but it's good to look back and remember them. I'll highlight the largest three...


Oertel's, Story Ave. and Webster, 1892 - 1967. Part of their complex still remains (first photo, smaller building to the right). One of my prized possessions is an Oertel's bottle opener :)

Frank Fehr, Liberty St. between Preston and Jackson, mid-1870s - 1964, bought by Schoenling of Cincinnati. Dosker Manor housing complex currently occupies the site. Note: In the first photo, the building at right is now First Link Discount Foods (significantly remodeled).

Falls City, 31st and Broadway, 1905 - 1978. Much of the facility is still there. I could not find a good picture of it in it's prime, but here's what it looks like today. Also, Falls City Beer is back in production. Different company, different site, and I believe a different recipe, but I'm glad the name's back in use.