While some pioneers came to the West seeking gold, others went to work brewing the golden elixir those riches could buy. In Idaho beer has been behind patented inventions, brick buildings, grand hotels and the growth of the grain market.
“The Disciples of King Gambrinus, Vol. II, Capitalists and Town Fathers,” tells the life stories of 27 successful Gem State beer brewers and three sets of brothers, including the German Ernest Weisgerber, who set up shop in Lewiston in 1862 and was possibly Idaho’s first brewer.
The book takes its title from the mythical King Gambrinus, said to have introduced beer and brewing to Europe. The first volume in the series covered unsuccessful and unfortunate brewers of the Inland Northwest.
Ronnenberg, of Troy, is also the author of “Pioneer Mother on the River of No Return, the Life of Isabella Kelly Benedict Robie,” and “John Lemp: The Beer Baron of Boise.”
His books can be ordered by calling (208) 835-6511 or emailing ronn@idaho.tds.net.
“The Disciples of King Gambrinus, Vol. II, Capitalists and Town Fathers,” by Herman Wiley Ronnenberg Heritage Witness Reflections 493 pages; $24.95
