How Molson Brewery in Edmonton Shaped the Canadian Brewing Industry for Over Two Centuries

By: Ryan Krawchuk 

The Molson Brewery in Edmonton, Alberta, is a historic landmark that has played an important part in the brewing business in the province. The Molson Brewery, founded in 1786 by John Molson, is the oldest brewery in North America and Canada's second-oldest company [4]. The building has recently been classified as a municipal historic property and has undergone extensive restoration efforts [1][3].

The Molson Brewery's link to the Molson Pilsner beer is an intriguing facet of its history. Although the Molson Pilsner has become synonymous with Saskatchewan, it can be traced back to the Molson Brewery in Lethbridge, Alberta [2]. Molson Pilsner, with its crisp taste and rich heritage, has become a popular beer throughout Western Canada.

Another interesting aspect of the Molson Brewery's history is the controversy surrounding its redevelopment in recent years. In 2013, the brewery underwent significant renovation efforts and was renamed the "Brewery District," featuring a mix of commercial and residential space [6]. However, there were concerns about the impact this redevelopment would have on the historic building and surrounding community, with some residents and organizations opposing the rezoning request [8].

The Molson Brewery's exterior also provides structural evidence of the evolution of Alberta's brewing industry from a local or regional enterprise to a nationally oriented business [7]. The building's signage and tile mosaic showcase the changing landscape of the province's brewing industry and serve as a testament to the importance of preserving historical landmarks.

In the end, the Molson Brewery in Edmonton, Alberta, is an infamous landmark that has played an important part in the history of the province. The brewery's history is vast and varied, ranging from its rank as the oldest brewery in North America to its relationship with the popular Molson Pilsner beer. Its previous preservation and contentious redevelopment initiatives serve as a reminder of the necessity of protecting historic sites while responding to changing community requirements.