Olympia Brewing Company

Olympia Brewing Company

Olympia Beer Logo

The Olympia Brewing Company was a prominent American brewery located in Tumwater, Washington. Founded in 1896 by Leopold F. Schmidt, the brewery became well-known for its flagship product, Olympia Beer, which was marketed with the slogan "It's the Water." The company played a significant role in the history of brewing in the Pacific Northwest and was a major employer in the region for many decades.

History

The Olympia Brewing Company was established in 1896 by Leopold F. Schmidt, a German immigrant who recognized the potential of the artesian water in the Tumwater area for brewing high-quality beer. The original brewery was built near the Deschutes River, taking advantage of the pure water source.

Olympia Brewery in 1989

In its early years, the brewery faced challenges, including the Prohibition era, which forced many breweries to close. However, Olympia Brewing Company survived by producing non-alcoholic beverages and other products. After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the company resumed beer production and expanded its operations.

Expansion and Growth

During the mid-20th century, Olympia Brewing Company expanded its distribution network and became a well-known brand across the United States. The brewery's success was largely attributed to its marketing strategy, which emphasized the quality of its beer due to the artesian water used in the brewing process.

Old Olympia Brewery as seen from Tumwater, WA park

In the 1960s and 1970s, Olympia Beer gained a loyal following, and the company continued to grow. However, by the late 20th century, the brewery faced increased competition from larger national brands and changing consumer preferences.

Acquisition and Closure

In 1983, the Olympia Brewing Company was acquired by Pabst Brewing Company, which continued to produce Olympia Beer at the Tumwater facility. However, in 2003, the brewery was closed, and production of Olympia Beer was moved to other facilities.

Tumwater Brewery

The closure of the brewery marked the end of an era for the Tumwater community, which had been closely tied to the brewery for over a century. The site of the original brewery remains a landmark, and efforts have been made to preserve its historical significance.

Legacy

Olympia Beer remains a nostalgic brand for many, and its legacy continues through its iconic slogan and branding. The brewery's history is celebrated in the Tumwater area, and the site of the original brewery is a point of interest for visitors and locals alike.

Olympia Beer label from 1914

Related Pages

• Pabst Brewing Company
• Prohibition in the United States
• Tumwater, Washington
• Deschutes River (Washington)