We knew that Battle Creek's Record Box was going to have a brewery on one floor of the 3-floor historic factory building.  We knew that  Battle Creek Unlimited (BCU) was prepared to award $200,000 in start-up funds.   We just didn't know who the brewer was going to be.  Well, now we do.

BCU   President and CEO Joe Sobieralski make the announcement on the 95.3 WBCK Morning Show with Tim Collins on Tuesday.   The Mystery Brewer .....(drum roll please)...  is Handmap Brewing.    Handmap Brewing co-founders, Chris McCleary and Jennifer Brown, both natives of Battle Creek, were also guests on WBCK.

Handmap Brewing logo-BCU
Handmap Brewing logo-BCU
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Both say they are excited to return to their hometown from Chicago, Illinois and share their expertise and passion for craft beer.  McCleary, Handmap’s Head Brewer has been brewing for well over a decade and spent the last three years as a brewer with Chicago-based Goose Island Beer Company.  Brown, brings decades of business and financial experience from multiple Chicago-based companies to Handmap Brewing.

Brown stated, “We are looking forward to coming home to open Handmap Brewing, catching up with old friends and making many new ones and are excited to be part of the great things happening in Battle Creek.  Our intent is to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome, from the craft beer enthusiast to people who have never been to a brewery.”

 “The City of Battle Creek is full of history, and Handmap Brewing is proud to be a part of its future.  We are excited to share our dream, and for Handmap to share the craft beer experience,” said McCleary.

McCleary and Brown say they hope to be open this fall.   McCleary says they'll probably offer a half-dozen or more different brews on the menu.

Handmap’s plans for Battle Creek include onsite brewing with a rotating selection of craft brews, along with lite food options in an inviting atmosphere and venue true to the craft brewing spirit.  Construction of the facility is currently underway, and a grand opening is slated for fall 2019. Handmap Brewing expects to employ nearly a dozen employees when fully operational.

BCU President & CEO Joe Sobieralski said, “Handmap Brewing’s decision to locate at the Record Box will build upon the transformative momentum that is currently underway in downtown Battle Creek. We are not only excited to watch them grow and thrive in Battle Creek but thrilled to see the downtown momentum continue.”

15 Carlyle-Battle Creek_GoogleMaps
15 Carlyle-Battle Creek_GoogleMaps
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15 Carlyle 1940-Willard Library
15 Carlyle 1940-Willard Library
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