Brewed in Belle City: The Beer Craft of Racine County Past and Present

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The best representation of summer is a chilled beer on a warm, sunny day. Since the end of the 1800s, Racine County has been known for various well-known breweries and their unique brews, such as Klinkert, Weber, Belle City, the Runaway, Low Daily, and Littleport.

Locally, Racine’s breweries faced off against Milwaukee until the original businesses moved out of Racine County in 1920. Whether you’re a fan of beer collectibles or simply appreciate a refreshing drink, take a moment to savor this part of Racine’s heritage.

Klinkert was the largest and most exceptional

Ernst Klinkert founded the E. Klinkert Brewing Company in 1881 on Washington Avenue. With 30 employees, the company remained active longer than any other brewery in Racine, continuing operations until the start of prohibition in 1920. Klinkert grew his business by constructing and acquiring taverns to exclusively serve his beer.

Klinkert’s beer was primarily available in the Racine/Kenosha region, and when the brewery ceased operations, its yearly production reached 50,000 barrels. Now, only the office building of his facility still stands, and it is currently used by the City of Racine Public Works.

Besides his breweries, Klinkert owned the Ernst C. Klinkert Hotel in 1909 and constructed a primitive Gothic-style horse stable in 1889. These two buildings are still intact today.

Lake Shore / Weber

According to the Racine Heritage Museum, William Weber acquired Lake Shore Brewery located on the shore of Lake Michigan in 1878. By the following year, they had brewed more than 300 barrels of Weiss beer.

Four years later, they introduced a range of soda waters packaged under the W. H. Weber brand. Weber’s most famous soda water was known as Cherry Fizz.

In 1902, following William’s passing, his sons Charles and Ernest assumed control and rebranded the company as Weber Brothers Brewery. A decade later, the business was devastated by a fire in 1912. The brothers opted to explore different opportunities and chose not to restore the brewery.

Belle City Brewery

A previous beverage provider, Hans C. Olsen, established his brewery at 1210 and 1506 State Street in 1895. Alongside his partner, Fred A. Brown, they called their business the Belle City Brewery Company.

Their most famous drink was known as the “Crown Malt Tonic,” marketed as “a delightful and beneficial drink, entirely non-alcoholic and pure.” It was available across the country, establishing itself as another renowned Racine company.

Andrew Feddersen became part of the company in 1910, when the business was rebranded as the Racine Malt Company. They operated from 1501-02 May Street until the location shut down in 1920.

Brewed in Racine today

Today, Racine hosts multiple breweries and a single beer garden across the county.

Littleport Brewery CompanyInitially opened on April 17, 2021, Chris and Mark Flynn established a vibrant hub for community, friendships, and camaraderie. They also hold the distinction of being the city’s first winery. Although they closed in February 2025, they have been diligently working on plans to reopen later this year.

The new area will remain in the same spot, but will be larger, featuring a tasting and brewing room. They also plan to establish a tasting space on the ground floor of the historic William Lathrop stable located across the street.

The Flynns are particularly proud of having established a place that people enjoy and wish to return to.

“We are excited about the opportunity to reopen a venue where friends and spirits can reunite,” Chris Flynn stated.

The Escaped Microbrewery and Nanobreweryis the first brewery to open in Burlington in 65 years. Situated in the center of historic downtown, Runaway is known for its quality, skill, and involvement with the local community. They operate with a small-batch approach and use locally-grown ingredients for both their food and beer.

The Low Daily Tap RoomIn the historic Burlington Standard-Press building, there is a spacious beer garden that offers a view of Echo Lake. Their popular Low Daily beer is available in multiple flavors and delivers an distinctive taste experience. Featuring an open patio and a tasting area, this local establishment offers a great environment for summer.

Franksville Craft Beer Gardenis a cherished meeting place in Franksville Memorial Park. It offers a welcoming environment for families, featuring food trucks, live performances, and a wide selection of beers. The venue operates from mid-May through October on Thursday and Friday evenings.

No matter what type of beer you’re in the mood for, enjoy and toast in Racine County.

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Brewed in Belle City: The Beer Craft of Racine County Through Timewas initially published on July 28, 2025 at 7:42 pm.

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Passionate writer for MathHotels.com, committed to guiding travelers with smart tips for exploring destinations worldwide.

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