New England has always been known for its rugged coastlines, historic towns, and a distinctive sense of community. In recent decades, another cultural treasure has emerged from these storied shores and vibrant towns: a booming independent brewing scene. From small independent breweries with avant-garde flavors to established neighborhood breweries preserving classic recipes, New England’s craft beer sector has captured nationwide acclaim.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into the roots of brewing in New England, trace the meteoric rise of independent breweries, and spotlight how Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co. fits into this thriving tapestry.
A Brief History of Independent Breweries in New England
Colonial Beginnings
Brewing in New England dates back to the earliest European settlers, who brought with them old-world brewing traditions. As barley, wheat, and other grains adapted to the region’s climate, colonists quickly found that local water sources were ideal for crafting ales. These early settlers, living in sometimes harsh conditions, relied on beer not just as a social beverage, but also as a calorie source and (at the time) a safer alternative to potentially contaminated water.
Prohibition and Big Beer
While the 19th century saw brewing flourish with many local brewers providing for their immediate communities, the arrival of Prohibition (1920–1933) disrupted and nearly destroyed the craft. Only large breweries with sufficient resources to pivot to other products survived. After Prohibition ended, the rise of mass-produced beer turned the market into something homogeneous. A format favoring large-scale uniform lagers over the richness and variety that once defined local brewing traditions.
Revival and the Modern Era
The pendulum began to swing back in the late 20th century as consumers craved more variety, flavor, and local authenticity. By the 1980s and 1990s, microbreweries and brewpubs began to appear across New England. This movement accelerated greatly in the 2000s and 2010s, leading to what many describe as a craft beer renaissance. Brewers started experimenting with robust hops, aging techniques, and barrel-aged stouts, reintroducing specialty ales like IPAs, sours, and porters to audiences eager for new tastes.
The Craft Beer Boom—Why Now?
Evolving Consumer Palates
Modern consumers are more adventurous with their taste buds than ever before, seeking out new flavor profiles and unique experiences. Instead of a standard light lager, enthusiasts now crave:
- Hazy IPAs bursting with notes of citrus and tropical fruit.
- Barrel-Aged Stouts layered with chocolate, coffee, and whiskey aromas.
- Sours and Goses featuring bright acidity and complex fruit flavors.
Localism and Authenticity
The modern consumer often wants to know the story behind a product. This has led to a surge in demand for locally sourced ingredients, farm-to-table dining, and regionally brewed beer. Craft breweries, including those in New England, typically use local hops, grains, and fruits whenever possible. The result? Beers that are firmly rooted in the identity of their hometowns.
Community-Focused Breweries
Perhaps the most compelling reason for the region’s craft beer boom is the emphasis on community. Breweries have become local gathering places—destinations where neighbors can catch up, families can dine together, and nonprofit organizations can host fundraisers. This community-centric ethos resonates deeply with New England culture, known for its collective spirit and grassroots approach to social life.
Brickyard Hollow Brewing Co.—Our Place in the Movement
Our Roots in Yarmouth, Maine
Brickyard Hollow opened in 2018 as a tribute to Yarmouth’s unique history. Our original location on Main Street celebrated “Brickyard Hollow,” the name given to a swampy low-lying area of land that once divided the town’s inland and coastal communities until it was filled in with paper-ash bricks. Much like how those bricks helped unify Yarmouth, our brewery hoped to bring people together around the shared enjoyment of quality craft beer and delicious pizzas.
The Philosophy Behind Our Beer
What sets Brickyard Hollow apart is a commitment to consistency and authenticity in brewing. While we enjoy experimenting with small-batch releases and intriguing ingredients, our mainstay beers always remain faithful to classic brewing techniques. Our lineup includes:
- Trestle IPA (6.8%): A hazy, citrus-forward IPA with balanced floral and pine notes.
- Pratt’s Brook Pilsner (5.3%): Crisp, refreshing, and featuring a subtle malt sweetness.
- 1901 Kolsch (4.6%): German-inspired ale that drinks like a refreshing pilsner, perfect for summer days.
(Pssst… For a deeper dive, visit our Craft Beer List to see what’s on tap.)
Expanding to Multiple Locations
Like many thriving breweries in New England, we’ve grown well beyond our original walls. Today, you can find Brickyard Hollow taprooms across Maine, including spots in Freeport, Portland, Ogunquit, New Gloucester, Brunswick, Skowhegan, Augusta, Biddeford, and even our pop-up at Sugarloaf Mountain. Each location retains its own local flavor while upholding the same dedication to community involvement and high-quality craft beer.
Collaborations and Community Involvement
Maine Brewers’ Guild Collaborations
A hallmark of New England’s craft beer culture is the willingness of breweries to collaborate rather than compete. Brickyard Hollow is proud to be a member of the Maine Brewers’ Guild, through which we’ve participated in collaborative brews. One standout project involved creating a New England Pale Ale using locally harvested grains and hops, demonstrating how synergy among brewers can yield extraordinary flavors.
(Check out our Instagram announcement about these collaborations here.)
Maine Brewshed Alliance
Water quality is fundamental to brewing, and Maine’s pristine watershed plays a pivotal role in crafting top-tier beers. Our involvement with the Maine Brewshed Alliance underscores our commitment to preserving local ecosystems. Through partnerships and events, we support policies that protect Maine’s water sources, ensuring that the next generation can enjoy the same immaculate water that forms the backbone of our beers.
Giving Back to Local Causes
At Brickyard Hollow, being part of the community goes beyond making beer. We frequently host “Community Nights,” where a portion of an evening’s sales supports local charities, schools, and nonprofits. This focus on community development resonates deeply with our mission: bringing people together to share good times and do good deeds.
Economic Impact of Independent Breweries
Driving Local Tourism
Local beer trails and brewfests attract beer enthusiasts from all over the country, many of whom plan vacations around visiting notable breweries. This trend supports local hotels, restaurants, and shops, generating revenue across multiple sectors.
Job Creation
From production teams in the brewhouse to front-of-house staff and distribution, craft breweries create a wide array of jobs. As breweries scale or add new locations, opportunities for employment expand, boosting local economies and drawing young professionals to these areas.
Revitalizing Historic Buildings
Many New England breweries, including Brickyard Hollow, have embraced the region’s historic architecture. By renovating older structures or transforming vacant properties, breweries often breathe new life into neighborhoods, enhancing local property values and fostering a sense of communal pride.
Looking Ahead—Sustaining the Momentum of Independent Breweries
Embracing Innovation and Tradition
For the craft beer movement to continue growing, breweries must balance tradition with innovation. Traditional ales and lagers will always have their place, but part of the excitement in New England’s beer scene lies in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—think small-batch sours aged in wine barrels or seasonal stouts brewed with locally foraged ingredients.
Encouraging Local Support
While beer tourism is vital, breweries also rely on repeat local customers who treat taprooms as extensions of their living rooms. Supporting independent breweries by attending community events, purchasing local cans, or simply choosing a neighborhood brew over a mass-produced option helps sustain the vibrant local beer culture.
Collaboration Over Competition
As more breweries open across New England, there’s always a concern about oversaturation. However, the spirit of community that currently defines the craft beer industry suggests that collaboration will continue to be the key to thriving in a crowded market. Breweries can share resources, cross-promote, and innovate together, ensuring that everyone benefits from the continued enthusiasm for craft beer.
Ready to Enjoy Some New England Culture?
From the early colonial days to the bustling taprooms of the 21st century, New England’s brewing culture has evolved through adversity, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to community. Independent breweries, like Brickyard Hollow, have been integral to this transformation. The breath life back into local economies, forge connections within neighborhoods, and craft beers that are as diverse as the region itself.
We’re honored to stand among so many dedicated brewers in Maine and beyond who prioritize quality, sustainability, and fellowship. As you plan your next adventure—whether it’s a road trip through scenic back roads or a weekend getaway at a bustling coastal city—be sure to include visits to some of the region’s many excellent craft breweries. Each pint tells its own story, reflecting the rich heritage and collaborative spirit that make New England brewing culture truly special.
Ready to explore our lineup or visit one of our Maine locations? Check out our Locations & Menus to see where you can grab your next Brickyard Hollow brew. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for the latest releases, events, and community initiatives. Here’s to raising a glass—together—in celebration of the past, present, and future of New England’s independent brewing scene!