Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company was not without controversy when it first applied for its permit as an upcoming craft beer maker in Springfield. Taking its name from a founder in the Women’s Christian Temperance Movement, Eliza Daniel Stewart, affectionately known as “Mother Stewart” would have been turning in her grave had she known.
I first came across the name, Mother Stewart while touring The Heritage Center of Clark County to learn more about the development of Springfield, once known as the “End of the Road”. She was known for her opposition of alcohol, claiming its negative influence, enticing working men away from their families. She made it quite clear her stance on alcohol and encouraged the prosecution of saloon owners as a key player in the Women’s Crusade of 1873 – 1874.
According to the founders of the brewery, Kevin and John Loftis, the name was not intended to disrespect Mother Stewart but rather pay homage to her and her cause.
The brewery is located downtown in a rustic industrial warehouse that was once the largest metal casket maker in the world, Springfield Metal Casket Company. Accessible through a back alley, Mother Stewart’s has been a gathering place for locals offering indoor and outdoor activities as well as concerts and events.
The 36,000 square foot building stood vacant for several years and was worn down and wavering on the edge of condemnation. Broken windows and decaying brick have all been replaced and renovated to house the expansive brewing operation.
My first visit was the year that they had opened when they were only serving four beers. The last time I had checked their website, that were serving seven homegrown brews, rotating several seasonal options in the mix.
Sitting at the long bar, I was excited to try their American Pale Ale and look forward to visiting again soon to attend one of their upcoming events and sample a few more great brews.
Have you visited Mother Stewart’s in Springfield, Ohio? Did you attend one of their events or stop by for a beer tasting? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.
What to See and What to Do:
Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company
102 W. Columbia Street
Springfield, OH 45504
Telephone: 937 717 0618
Where to Stay:
Courtyard Marriott Springfield
100 S. Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600
Where to Eat:
Heart of Country Gift Shoppe and Teaberries Cafe
1600 E. Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH 45505
Telephone: 937 325 3030
I could spend hours strolling the Heart of Country Shoppe, but when I visit, I can’t wait to have lunch at Teaberries. I always start my lunch with a piece of yummy, moist orange bread. Known for their wide varieties of chicken salad sandwiches, I always revert to the House Favorite, the Midwest Delight, served on a butter croissant. If you have room, try their homemade carrot cake or peanut butter pie.
More favorite Springfield eateries:
- Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
- Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
- Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
- Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
- Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
- Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.
Where to Drink:
- Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.
What to Read:
- The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
- Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
- Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
- Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
- Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb
Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:
- Hartman Rock Garden
- Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
- Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
- Heritage Center of Clark County
- Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
- Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
- Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio
Some of the amazing merchants I met included Nay and Terry Dismore from Pretzels with a Twist. Their company offers miniature gourmet pretzels with lots of flavor. From ChipotleQue to Peppermint Cocoa, there is a fantastic combination for any pretzel lover.
JC’s Lemonade was such a refreshing drink and I absolutely loved the pineapple twist flavor.
Sunset in Key West