Sioux Falls Brewing Company

The address 820 N Main Ave once housed an impressive structure known as the "castle on the hill" in downtown Sioux Falls. This building stood from 1904 to 1987 and has since been transformed into a parking lot and a brick park. Unfortunately, there are no historical markers or plaques to commemorate its significance in Sioux Falls history and collective memories.

Sioux Falls Brewing Company originated in the 1880s, but it faced several challenges during its rise to success. Initially, the city took action against them for dumping waste in the streets, followed by legal issues related to previous debts as new partners entered the scene. Nevertheless, the brewery persevered and brought financial success to its new partners.

Local support has always been strong in the area, which is why the Cataract, the most prestigious hotel at the time, featured a Sioux Falls Brewing display in one of its bars. The Blue Label beer emerged as the most recognized product, marketed broadly, but with a particular emphasis on affordability for the common man and immigrants, as highlighted in advertisements touting a price of 60 cents per beer. The success of Blue Label is evident from a news story in 1901 about the brewery ordering one million corks.

So, what led to the brewery's closure and its transformation into a dairy? The Temperance movement had a significant influence across America, especially in South Dakota, where prohibition began in 1890, long before it became a national trend. Although it lasted only a few years, it was just a glimpse of what was to come. Prohibition resurfaced again in South Dakota before the 18th Amendment was ratified in 1919. By the time the nation was going dry, South Dakota already was, prompting Sioux Falls Brewing to rebrand as Sioux Falls Brewing and Malting Company, shifting to sodas and other non-alcoholic drinks. While this adaptation managed to mitigate some losses, it ultimately wasn't enough to sustain the business. Eventually, Crescent Creamery took over, but the building faced a tragic fate when it was consumed by arson in 1987.

On a brighter note, Sioux Falls has experienced a remarkable resurgence in craft beer, with a plethora of excellent brews being crafted right here in the city. Since the repeal of prohibition in 1933, we can legally produce, sell, and enjoy these beverages. Here's to celebrating history!