The End of an Era: Leinenkugel’s Brewery in Chippewa Falls Closes After 157 Years
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. — A cornerstone of Wisconsin’s brewing history is coming to an end. The Leinenkugel’s Brewery in Chippewa Falls, a beloved institution with a legacy spanning over 157 years and six generations, will permanently close its doors this Friday. The closure follows Molson Coors’ decision to decline an offer from the Leinenkugel brothers, Jake and Dick, to purchase the brewery. This decision not only marks the end of an era but also results in the loss of 56 jobs, leaving a profound impact on the local community and the brewery’s employees.
A Brewing Legacy Comes to a Close
Established in 1867, the Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company has been a symbol of tradition and resilience. From its early days of crafting beer in Chippewa Falls to surviving the challenges of Prohibition, the brewery has been deeply woven into the fabric of the community. Over the years, it grew from a regional favorite into a nationally recognized brand, celebrated for its rich history and dedication to quality.
In 1988, the family brewery was purchased by Miller Brewing, which eventually became part of Molson Coors. Despite these changes in ownership, the brewery continued to operate in Chippewa Falls, maintaining its reputation as the heart and soul of the Leinenkugel’s brand.
Molson Coors Rejects Leinenkugel Brothers’ Offer
In a heartfelt statement, Jake and Dick Leinenkugel revealed that they had made a bid to acquire the Chippewa Falls brewery in an effort to preserve its historic legacy. However, Molson Coors declined their offer. Gavin Hattersley, CEO of Molson Coors, reassured that the company remains “fully committed to the Leinenkugel’s brand,” but the brewery itself will cease operations.
“The Chippewa Falls brewery is more than a facility — it is a symbol of our legacy, a source of pride for our community, and a key part of what makes Leinenkugel’s unique,” the Leinenkugel brothers stated in a press release. They expressed hope for a resolution that could honor the brewery’s history and safeguard its significance to Chippewa Falls.
Impact on the Community
The closure will affect 56 employees who have dedicated their careers to the brewery, creating an emotional void for both workers and the community. While production will move to Milwaukee, the loss of the Chippewa Falls facility is a poignant reminder of how deeply rooted the brewery was in the town’s identity.
What Remains
Although the brewery is closing, not all is lost for fans of Leinenkugel’s. The Leinie Lodge, a visitor center and pilot brewery in Chippewa Falls, will remain open. Additionally, Molson Coors will continue brewing Leinenkugel’s beer at its facilities in Milwaukee, ensuring that the brand lives on even as the original brewery shutters.
A Storied History in Brewing
Leinenkugel’s has been synonymous with the heritage of craft beer in Wisconsin. Founded by Jacob Leinenkugel in 1867, the brewery has been a family-run operation for generations. It survived the economic pressures of Prohibition and adapted to changing times, building a loyal following and becoming a staple of Wisconsin’s cultural and economic landscape.
The brewery’s closure underscores the challenges faced by historic brands in a rapidly evolving industry, where consolidation and modernization often overshadow tradition.
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- Leinenkugel’s Brewery closing in Chippewa Falls: What it means for Wisconsin’s brewing history.
- Molson Coors rejects buyback offer: Jake and Dick Leinenkugel’s efforts to preserve the brewery.
- Leinie Lodge stays open: Where fans can still connect with Leinenkugel’s legacy.
- Historic breweries and community impact: The end of 157 years of beer production in Chippewa Falls.
- Brewing history in Wisconsin: The Jacob Leinenkugel Brewing Company’s enduring legacy.
Looking Ahead
As Chippewa Falls says goodbye to this iconic brewery, the Leinenkugel name will continue to live on through its beers and the loyal fans who cherish its history. For the local community, however, the loss of the brewery is more than just a business closure — it marks the end of a chapter in Wisconsin’s storied brewing tradition.
