Canada, ON: Glasstown Brewing Company opens in downtown Wallaceburg

A much-anticipated business in downtown Wallaceburg officially opened its doors Saturday, May 20 — and celebrated the moment with a special delivery, the Chatham Daily News reported.

With Todd Shepley, Glasstown Brewing Company president and founder, behind the wheel of an antique truck, he made a keg drop-off to the Royal Canadian Legion, while following behind the pipe band.

“It’s been a year and a half trying to get here, but we did it and we’re all excited for the day,” he told The Daily News beforehand.

Shepley was inspired to launch the business when visiting the U.S. and seeing all the waterfront breweries.

He purchased the property at 331 James St. to help make that a reality in his community.

As for the delivery to the legion, he said it allows the business to pay tribute to veterans, noting his grandfather served in the Second World War.

Glasstown will initially offer a half-dozen craft beers brewed in-house by head brewer David Draper. Shepley said there will be about 15 different varieties later on.

There is also a fully serviced tap room, chef-run kitchen and a large patio alongside the Sydenham River.

“We had to start as soon as we could with permits and such, so we were fortunate enough to get started a little earlier before opening,” he said.

There will be about 20 staff in total, full and part-time.

The historic James Street building, which was built in 1875, is undergoing significant redevelopment beyond the addition of the brewery.

The second phase of development will add four suites to the second floor. There will also be an event space on the third floor.

“It’s much needed for the town. They needed space to gather,” Shepley said.

He called the location ideal for the business and believes it will be a well-used amenity.

“We’re right in between Sarnia and Chatham, so we’re in the right spot,” he said.

“It’s got that look, open concept. You can see from the street right straight to the river. We lengthened the windows, so that it’s nice and bright.”

He added that he’s looking forward to boaters arriving, particularly during WAMBO.

Mayor Darrin Canniff said the municipality is pleased to welcome the brewery to Wallaceburg.

“This exciting endeavour not only adds to the charm of our community but also showcases the ongoing commitment to fostering a vibrant local economy,” he said in a release.

“I’m confident that Glasstown will be a go-to destination for residents and visitors and will become a fixture among CK’s amazing craft beer options.”

21 May, 2023