Harlan County Beer Company

New Roof, New Construction, and WeFunder Closing

Published on Aug 10, 2021

Just about 5 months ago we launched our WeFunder campaign to fund the first legal brewery in Harlan County, Kentucky. We knew the brewery was going to happen. We just didn't know if or how many people would join us in the adventure. To say the least, we have been blown away by the response and commitment from people in Harlan, Louisville, and all over the Commonwealth and United States! So far, we've raised $216,178 from 311 investors on WeFunder and another $64,000 committed from others off the platform for a total of more than $280,000. For those of you still on the fence, this is a final opportunity to be a part of something that is already bigger than a main street brewery on courthouse square in Harlan, Kentucky. Our WeFunder round closes on August 11 at 11pm EST. From that point on, you'll just have to support us by coming to Harlan for the beer (and good food), and staying for the mountains! Now, let's get on with some updates on construction and next steps. We are still moving full steam ahead!

Dry for the First Time in 25 Years

When Gill and Geoff bought what the brewery building it was in need of critical repair. Two major roof leaks threatened the entire collapse of the building. There was literally grass and moss growing on the first and second floor. A persistent roof leak and moldy wood provided the perfect habitat for some Kentucky bluegrass to take root. The appraiser of the property took some great photos (see below) and noted in his report, "Evidence of water damage is obvious throughout the building. Standing water on stairs leading to second story, rotted joists, mold and algae growth is visible."

We are delighted to report that the "interior water feature" we often joked about when it rained has been removed from the building. A brand new roof was installed by wonderful craftspeople from COAP, a local nonprofit contractor that focuses on energy efficiency, affordable housing, and construction. Mike King and his crew did an amazing job making sure the roof will not leak again with a 15-year guarantee.

Plumbing, Electric, Framing, and HVAC

In renovation construction, it feels like you spend 90% of your time getting the building prepped, obtaining permits, finding contractors, and getting the right people and tools in place to get work done. But, once you get everything lined up, the work goes remarkably fast. Although, we've had a few setbacks here and there we are still on track to open later this year. New plumbing, electric, and framing work begins next week. We've already started prepping our reclaimed wood for the bar and tabletops. The brewery system has been purchased and delivered. All the kitchen equipment was ordered months ago and will be delivered in the coming weeks. (For those of you experiencing Covid-related supply chain disruptions, you know how hard it has been to get new equipment ordered and delivered on-time.) Below are a few pictures to give you a taste of what the finished brewery will look like. The first is a picture of reclaimed wood we will be using for the bartop and tables. And the next picture is of our Portland Kettle Works brew system.

Next Steps

There's a lot to accomplish in the coming months and we are more than ready to go! Beer recipes are in the works. Barley and hops supplier accounts have been set up. We head out to Knoxville in two weeks to develop our menu at a test kitchen. Meanwhile, our Harlan team is hard at work building out the brewery. Until the next update, be sure to drink a beer and thank Harlan County!