The History of the MBAA
District New England
The history of the MBAA – District New England has proven to
be elusive. The research of the district will be an ongoing
work in progress. Records and information have been difficult
to ascertain. We will piece together New England’s story over
time.
The district was dissolved in 1978. When was the district
born, what happened prior to 1978 and why did the district become
inactive? Was there a district in the 1980’s and early 1990’s?
In 1995 the district was reborn. Richard Young, a brewer and
active member within District Northern California, moved east
with his family and was interested in transferring his MBAA
membership. While setting up shop at the Cape Cod Brew House
in Hyannis, MA., Richard soon discovered that there was no New
England chapter of the MBAA.
Richards’ passion for brewing and his realization that there
was a “similar dichotomy in the New England brewing scene to
that of District Northern California”, spurred his enthusiasm
for re-chartering the New England district. He began his efforts
by soliciting the national association for information regarding
the history of the chapter and what had to be done to apply
for active status. After months of writing letters, the association
responded and outlined what was involved in the activation process.
Richard contacted a number of prominent brewers in New England
that were professional members and enlisted their assistance
to reorganize the district. The application was accepted in
the fall of 1995 by the national association. Ron Vogel, president
of the MBAA, and his staff joined members at the Boston Beer
Company in Boston, MA for the inaugural meeting in September
of 1995.
The district saw a resurgence in membership and involvement
starting in 1995, under the guidance of David Hollows, Stephen
Mason and Richard Young. During late 1997 through 1999 the district
struggled through industry shakeout and leadership turnover.
Again through the efforts of Richard Young and other members
the district took shape. The district was elevated to new levels
of professionalism in 2000 as it was led by a new slate of officers:
Al Marzi, Bob Johnson and Travis Audet. District New England
is flourishing at the present with consistent leadership and
thriving membership.
If anyone has information about the New England District prior
to 1994, please contact us so we can continue to complete our
history! |
