Ann Arbor Beer: A Hoppy History of Tree Town Brewing

by David Bardallis

Ann Arbor has always been a beer-loving town. From the establishment of the first commercial brewery in 1838 through a century of German immigration down to today's local craft brew boom, the amber liquid looms large in Tree Town's quirky past and present. Find out how beer helped a former University of Michigan professor win a Nobel Prize. Discover the Ann Arbor doctor whose nationally bestselling home remedy book featured ale recipes. Learn which Michigan football legend pounded brewskis as part of his training regimen. Covering the exploits of famous poets, performers and prohibitionists, local author David Bardallis pops the cap off the big beer history of this little college town and leads readers to the best beer you can drink" in Ann Arbor today."

Genres: Beer

176 pages, Paperback

First published August 25, 2013

Reviews

[Liz Crowe · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started reading Dave's book "Ann Arbor Beer: A Hoppy History of Tree Town Brewing" I had a similar experience as when I read "Three and Out" by John U. Bacon. Dave's style of writing is addictive, and while I do admit a fondness for his subject, I felt that even if I only possessed a passing interest in anything relative to Ann Arbor's history or the history of craft beer in a mid western town, I would be drawn in.

I read the book in 2 sittings, smiling a lot, laughing out loud at parts (helps that I know some of these "characters" but still….) and would highly recommend it to anyone looking for an enjoyable reading experience about the "hot topic" of "craft beer" but also to learn more about its place in the history of a Major College Town.

It moves smoothly from the pre-prohibition through the redemption of America thanks to the 21st Amendment and into the craft beer revolution in hippie town (yeah, I can say that) and into the current state of affairs in Tree Town for we brewery owners and our "up yours" to the industrial macros.

Yes, it is non-fiction but thanks to the talent of the author, forget the dry toast, and enjoy this book like the fine, rich, hand crafted brew that it is.

Well done David! An official 5-Lager Review!

[Ryan Morton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about the history in Ann Arbor, specifically relating to beer and alcohol/prohibition. His writing style was easy and inviting, within a fact and fun-filled chronology of the city.

I don't read many history books, but it was a bit hard to keep track of who and when the stories connected. I think a timeline of events and/or some visuals linking the people, breweries, laws, etc would have a solid impact (e.g., beginning of each chapter). Otherwise, a great read for Ann Arborites.

[Richard Retyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great read about the history of beer in Ann Arbor. It's well researched, well written and full of great photos. If you love beer and are interested in a unique look at Ann Arbor's history pick this up!

[Mies · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad book on the History of brewing in Ann Arbor, but a bit thin in terms of a 'history'. I wished Bardallis included a bit more detail offered insight into some of the more recent history of Ann Arbor Brewing. Still if your interested in craft brewing history you'll want to read Bardallis'.

[Kevin Karpiak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Some fun stories, and a family connection