Brewmasters and Brewery Creek: A History of Craft Beer in Vancouver, Then and Now

This rigorously researched deep dive into the history of craft beer in Vancouver makes an exciting addition to books on the city’s history, certain to appeal to beer-lovers and history buffs alike.

Few would dispute that these days Vancouver is a prime craft beer destination, with over 70 breweries in the greater Vancouver area and 35+ in Vancouver proper. Beer has shaped the city’s culture, and in turn, Vancouver’s idiosyncratic identity has also shaped its craft beer. But how did it all begin?

In this rigorously researched deep dive into the history of craft beer in Vancouver, beer historian and enthusiast Noëlle Phillips follows independent brewing from the city’s inception in 1886 to the onset of prohibition in 1917 and, hopping over the “big beer” period of 1920–1980, delves into the explosion of micro, small-batch and craft breweries that dot the city’s neighbourhoods today. She traces the smaller, lesser-known breweries, brewers, and owners through archival materials, newspaper accounts, and personal interviews. Along the way she uncovers stories and details that have been largely unknown even to local beer writers and aficionados.

Illustrated with photos, original newspaper clippings, and maps, with stops into basement archives and sunlit tap rooms, Brewmasters and Brewery Creek is an inviting and exciting addition to books on the city’s history that will appeal to beer-lovers and history buffs alike.

ISBN: 9781771514507
Format: Paperback
Pages: 408
Publisher: TouchWood Editions
Published: October 15, 2024

"An enjoyable read that uncovers so many fascinating anecdotes of Vancouver’s rich and storied brewing history. From the turn of the century Vancouver breweries, to the amazing 1980s craft beer revival. Noelle’s captivating storytelling makes it a must-read for craft beer enthusiasts and historians alike!" —Tim LaHay Co-Founder of The Barley Merchant Taproom & Kitchen ”Brewmasters and Brewery Creek is a thorough investigation into the history of craft beer — the main players and characters involved from Vancouver's inception to the microbrewery renaissance the city is familiar with, today. If you wish to add the texture of the days of old to your next sip of lager or ale in one of Vancouver’s numerous taprooms, pick up a copy of Phillips’ book. This hefty read will have you impressing friends with a plethora of historical facts that have shaped not just the industry but the city itself.” —Kendall Hunter, author of Beer Hiking Canadian Rockies "Phillips’ Brewmasters and Brewery Creek is a compelling account of small breweries in Vancouver, from the city’s birth through to present day. It shows a commitment to accuracy and research, while also displaying a true passion for beer along with a keen interest in the people behind it. It paints a vivid picture of the beer industry in the late 1800s, and I was particularly struck by the many similarities between the early days of beer in Vancouver and the current craft beer scene." —Mirella Amato, Craft beer consultant, and award-winning author "Sip from your favourite local beer and dive into this informative and entertaining book that connects the early pioneer brewers who gave Brewery Creek its name with the contemporary entrepreneurs who helped make Vancouver the craft beer destination it is today." —Joe Wiebe, author of Craft Beer Revolution "Phillips expertly weaves together exhaustive archival research and interviews into a highly readable and long overdue chronicle of Vancouver’s independent breweries and the enterprising personalities behind them." —Melanie Hardbattle, Simon Fraser University Archives "In depth research and analysis, graceful writing, and a great array of historical photographs make Brewmasters and Brewery Creek a must-read for craft beer historians and aficionados in Vancouver and across Canada." —Jon C. Stott, author of Island Craft