Appalachian Brewing Company: End of an Era for Harrisburg’s Flagship Brewpub
Appalachian Brewing Company: End of an Era for Harrisburg’s Flagship Brewpub
Celebrating 28 Years of Craft Beer History
The Appalachian Brewing Company (ABC), a pioneer in central Pennsylvania’s craft beer scene, officially announced the closure of its original Harrisburg brewpub after 28 years of operation. Situated in the heart of Harrisburg, this flagship location was more than a local staple—it was the region’s first brewery since 1951 and a driving force behind the city’s revitalization and craft beer renaissance.
Landmark Brewery Roots
Founded in 1997, the Harrisburg brewpub occupied a stunning, historic three-story structure built circa 1915, with deep beer heritage and original lagering rooms dating back to 1890. The brewery’s brick walls and exposed timber beams provided the perfect backdrop for ABC’s mission: to blend innovative craft brewing with a warm, inviting dining experience.
Appalachian Brewing Company’s Harrisburg Legacy
Appalachian Brewing Company (ABC) made history when it was founded in 1997, becoming the first brewery to operate in Harrisburg since 1951. Its flagship brewpub was housed in a massive three-story brick and timber building, originally built around 1915, with a lagering room dating back to 1890. Restoring this space from an abandoned warehouse to a vibrant hub for beer, food, and community events was a monumental labor of love that took nearly two years. The renovation not only revived a piece of Harrisburg’s industrial history but also marked ABC as a pioneer in the region’s craft beer renaissance.
From its opening, ABC became a central point for social life in downtown Harrisburg, offering brewery tours, live music at the Abbey Bar, rooftop dining with views of the city, and a menu that paired scratch-made, locally sourced food with its lineup of ales, lagers, and craft sodas. As the company grew, the Harrisburg location remained its largest and most iconic site, brewing flagship beers like Mountain Lager and Hoppy Trails IPA for distribution throughout the mid-Atlantic. ABC’s bold move brought brewing back to the state capital, fostering a renewed appreciation for local beer culture and solidifying its place as an anchor in Harrisburg’s identity.
Jack Sproch, co-founder and longtime owner of Appalachian Brewing Company, is recognized as a visionary in Pennsylvania’s craft beer community. As both brewer and business leader, Sproch—alongside his founding partners Shawn Gallagher and Artie Tafoya—helped revive Harrisburg’s brewing tradition in 1997 by launching ABC in a historic warehouse. Under his stewardship, the company grew from a single brewpub into a respected regional brand known for consistent, innovative beers, quality craft sodas, and a genuine commitment to community and hospitality.
Why Did ABC Harrisburg Close?
After nearly three decades, the Harrisburg location is shutting its doors due to shifting market dynamics and increased competition. The company cited evolving consumer patterns and a saturated craft beer landscape as primary reasons for retiring this legendary location—reminding us that even icons must adapt to changing tastes and economic realities…