The Guinness Story: The Family, the Business and the Black Stuff

by Edward J. Bourke

This 250-year old story will fascinate lovers of Guinness beer and memorabilia as well as those interested in this remarkable family of brewers and the industrial history of Ireland's most famous export. Over 100 fascinating photographs bring to life the pivotal role that the Guinness brewery has played in Ireland for over two centuries: the early days of the brewery; the Guinness dynasty; the brewing process; the unique industrial complex at St James' Gate; day-to-day life behind the gates; the hugely successful export operation; and key moments in the history of the brewery. By the twentieth century St James' Gate was the largest brewery in the world, and Guinness had become forever synonymous with Ireland.

Genres: Beer, Nonfiction

176 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2009

About the author

Edward J. Bourke is a scientist working at Diageo St James’s Gate Global Beer Technical Centre.

He has an abiding interest in industrial history, especially relating to Ireland, and has published several books on shipwrecks around the Irish coast.
His fascination with the Guinness brewery began at an early age as both his parents and grandparents owned pubs in Dublin.

Reviews

[Wolfgang Delgado · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting facts, written in an uninteresting way. Neato pics though.

[Richard C Walsh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable book and ideal gift for family or friends who are fans of Guinness or irish or industrial history. Parts read like museum info notices and is a quick read but gives a very good overview. If anything feel it could precede a longer more in depth book in future as you get a one sentence story that you feel could be further explored or expanded on. Anyone who reads this will definitely learn at least one thing new or a interesting fact.

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, enjoyable read for anyone that's a fan of the black liquidation with the froth on the top. You'll learn about the history of the Guinness family and breweries in Dublin. There are lots of photos showing how brewery operations changed over the years. And there's a fun section at the end discussing various advertising campaigns over the years. Cheers!

[Tasha · Rating 2 out of 5]

The writing is pretty dry. I've read government pamphlets with more personality. Great pictures, though.

[Valerie McGurk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting at the start about a family, a business and a dynasty.

[Richard Gombert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good overview of the company and the family.