The Story Behind this Rare Item from Local History

At Past & Present Home Gallery, we love acquiring pieces with a great background – especially if it relates to our hometown! This circa 1930s wooden beer box has quite the storied past that both beer lovers and Breweriana collectors will enjoy.

The Brewing History of Alexandria, MN

Dating back to the late 1800s, this Alexandria beer brand has had a variety of names throughout the decades including Rud. Wegener Brewing Co., Aberle Brewing Co., Northwestern Brewery, and finally Alexandria Brewing Co.

At the end of prohibition in 1933, the Alexandria Brewing Co. was established by long-time business partners Sam Caldis and John Geanopolis. Introducing their home-brewed 3.2% beer ‘Gold Seal’ in 1935, early batches were made in barrel lots prior to the addition of their bottling plant. According to newspaper articles obtained by the Douglas County Historical Society, the brewery was quite successful selling their product to local merchants, and claimed to be, “one of the most modern and up to date plants of its kind in the country.”

By 1939, the new brew ‘Gopher Beer’ was announced, advertising itself as a ‘purer, richer beer with a better flavor.’ Unfortunately, the new recipe was not enough to save the company and Alexandria Brewing Co. closed its doors for the last time in 1943.

These antique bottles (not currently available, sorry!) date back to over 120 years ago when the Alexandria Brewing Company was sold and called by a different name: Rud Wegner Brewing Company. 

A Collector’s Piece from the Post-Prohibition Era

Still harboring the mark of Alexandria Brewing Co.’s infamous ‘Gold Seal’ beer, this worn wooden box is the perfect addition for any Breweriana’s collection. The original hinges and metalwork remain in place and the lid opens to reveal a roomy space for storing memorabilia, books and other trinkets, or nothing at all. This rustic antique can tie together the aesthetic of a room all by itself!

Today, our town is lucky to once again have local breweries where townies and tourists alike can gather for a home-brewed pint or two. Whether you choose to imbibe, collect, or do a little of each, pieces like this wooden beer case give us a peek into past – one of our specialties here at Past & Present Home Gallery.

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Antique Bolt and Screw Cabinet

The story that accompanies this gorgeous wooden cabinet—complete with white porcelain knobs and intricate detailing—adds a layer of fascination that truly brings character to this unique piece of early 20th Century Americana.