What looks like (and actually is) an old-time grain elevator in north Lanesboro of Parkway has become a place for people to gather with friends, listen to live music, and enjoy a few cold ones. Cold beer, that is. A brewery at this location continues a long and enjoyable Lanesboro tradition.

As early as 1871 a few blocks from here on Coffee Street the “La Crosse Beer Hall” opened offering “billiards and beer.” Similar establishments, including “The Redmond Saloon” in the building that’s now the Lanesboro History Museum, were doing a lively business as well.

In the 1880s bar and beer ventures really took off. There were as many as a dozen saloons in town. So many, in fact, the local newspaper—“The Lanesboro Leader”—expressed concern. The problem, said the paper, is that it is just too easy for those businesses to open. “(A) saloon license being only $100 (has) induced many to go into this low and degrading business.”

Some considered it low; others took their brewing skills to new heights. From 1873 to 1879 the “Lanesboro Brewery” began producing beer they claimed “was the best beer ever made in Lanesboro.” The fact it only lasted six years may call their claim to question.

The making, drinking and enjoyment of beer—and other refreshments—has been a popular leisure pursuit in this town from the its start. That will probably always be true. There’s just something about a warm summer night in Lanesboro, Minnesota, sitting near the flowing Root River, visiting with friends, maybe listening to music, that makes people a little thirsty for a cold one. Or two.