Name/Title
W Smith Brewery BlackburnEntry/Object ID
2025.1.398Description
W. Smith Brewery Beer Barrel; Brass collarContext
The W. Smith Brewery in Blackburn has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century. It was established by William Smith, who had previously worked with his brothers at the original Smith's Brewery in Tadcaster. After a disagreement, William Smith opened a rival plant in Blackburn. This new brewery eventually became known as W. Smith Brewery.
Here's a more detailed look at the W. Smith Brewery's history:
1847: John Smith established the original Smith's Brewery in Tadcaster, later inherited by his brother William.
Late 19th Century: William Smith, after a disagreement with his family, established the W. Smith Brewery in Blackburn, a rival to the family's original brewery.
Early 20th Century: The brewery flourished under the Smith family's management and became a prominent local brewery.
1970: John Smith's Brewery (the original Tadcaster brewery) was taken over by Courage, who then extended distribution into the South of England.
1995: Courage was acquired by Scottish & Newcastle.
2008: The operations were purchased by Heineken.
Present: The W. Smith Brewery in Blackburn continues to operate as a smaller, independent brewery, though its history is intertwined with the broader story of the Smith family and the brewing industry. Source breweryhistory.comAcquisition
Accession
2025.1Source or Donor
Gordon DempsterAcquisition Method
Transfer