G. Heileman Brewing Company facts for kids
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| Industry | Beverage |
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| Fate | Acquired by Stroh Brewing Company Primary brewery in La Crosse is now owned and operated by the City Brewing Company |
| Founded | November 13, 1858 as The City Brewery in La Crosse, Wisconsin |
| Founders | Gottlieb Heileman and John Gund |
| Defunct | 1996 after Stroh's Acquisition |
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Key people
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Gottlieb Heileman, Johanna Heileman, E.T. Mueller, Roy Kumm, and Russell G. Cleary |
The G. Heileman Brewing Company was a large company that made beverages in La Crosse, Wisconsin, United States. It started in 1858 and operated for many years until 1996. Eventually, another company called Stroh's bought it. This meant that the G. Heileman Brewing Company no longer existed as an independent business. From 1872 until it was sold, the company used the family name of one of its founders, Gottlieb Heileman.
Contents
How the Company Began
The G. Heileman Brewing Company started a long time ago, on November 13, 1858. It was first known as The City Brewery. Two people, Gottlieb Heileman and John Gund, founded the company. They set up their business in La Crosse, Wisconsin. This city was a good place for a brewery because it was near rivers and had access to resources.
Early Years and Growth
In its early days, the company focused on making drinks for local people. Gottlieb Heileman was a skilled brewer. He helped the company grow steadily. Over time, The City Brewery became more well-known. It started to serve customers beyond just La Crosse.
The Heileman Family's Role
Gottlieb Heileman was very important to the company. After he passed away, his wife, Johanna Heileman, took over the business. This was quite unusual for a woman at that time. Johanna was a strong leader. She helped the company continue to succeed and expand. Her leadership showed that the company was a family business.
Expanding the Business
Under Johanna's guidance, the company kept growing. They added new buildings and equipment. This allowed them to make more products. The company became one of the biggest employers in La Crosse. It played a big part in the local economy.
Key Leaders and Changes
Over the years, other important people led the G. Heileman Brewing Company. E.T. Mueller and Roy Kumm were some of these leaders. They helped the company adapt to new times. Later, Russell G. Cleary became a very important person for the company. He helped it grow even more. Heileman became one of the largest beverage companies in the United States.
A Time of Big Growth
During Russell G. Cleary's time, the company bought other smaller companies. This made Heileman much bigger. They started making many different kinds of drinks. The company became known for its wide range of products. This period was a time of great success and expansion for Heileman.
The End of an Era
In 1996, the G. Heileman Brewing Company was acquired by the Stroh Brewing Company. This meant that Heileman was no longer an independent company. Its long history as a standalone business came to an end. The Stroh Brewing Company took over its operations.
What Happened Next
Even though the G. Heileman Brewing Company stopped existing independently, its main brewery building in La Crosse is still used today. It is now owned and operated by the City Brewing Company. This means that the place where Heileman made its products continues to be a busy site for making beverages.
Images for kids
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The G. Heileman Brewing Company building in La Crosse, Wisconsin.
