For Tim Patton, owner and founder of local nano-brewery
Saint Benjamin's Brewing Company, it only took a year to find the perfect warehouse space in which to expand his small-scale operation. He ended up with a historic gem on North 5th Street -- the former Theo Finkenauer Brewing Company, built in the late 1800s.
"I was specifically looking in South Kensington for the brewery's permanent home," says Patton, explaining that the neighborhood's price points fit his budget. "[The site's] history combined with its location -- north of Northern Liberties and west of Fishtown -- drew me to the building. It was everything I wanted."
Kensington has a rich history as a center for brewing not just in Philly, but on a national scale. The neighborhood has changed since then, and so too has its brewing tradition: In the 1900s, many breweries left or closed for good.
In recent years, a resurgence in local beer culture combined with a plethora of vacant warehouse facilities has reignited the brewing tradition in a major way. Patton hopes his move is part of that movement. Once complete, the brewery will use organic and sustainable ingredients as much as possible. There will also be a 30-to-35 seat pub selling locally sourced foods on-site.
"I'm hoping to start construction this year and complete the brewery by fall," says Patton. "The pub will open shortly after that."
To get there, Patton is crowdfunding the restoration of the building's historic facade. He is using
Lucky Ant and hoping to raise $20,000 in 21 days (the campaign ends May 8).
Lucky Ant offers specific rewards and deals to the local community in exchange for donations. In Patton's case, contributors will receive free merchandise, free food, major discounts and other perks.
Visit
luckyant.com/saintbenjamins to donate.
Source: Tim Patton, Saint Benjamin's Brewing Company
Writer:
Greg Meckstroth