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The story of beer and brewing in Richmond is a reflection of the well-documented and revered place the River City holds in the nation's history. English colonists imbibed together on the banks of the James River. During the Civil War, a brewery was adjacent to a hospital. Beyond historical brews such as the Krueger Brewing Company and Richbrau beer, Richmond is no stranger to the vibrant craft beer culture thriving across the nation. Area brewers, including Hardywood Park Craft Brewery, Legend Brewing Company, Midnight Brewery and Strangeways Brewing, make Richmond a beer lover's paradise. Grab a pint and join author and beer columnist Lee Graves as he recounts the frothy history of Richmond beer.

Possibly the region's first craft brewer, Thomas Jefferson grew hops and created his own small-batch brews at his home at Monticello. His brewing, however, was only the beginning. Charlie Papazian got his start homebrewing at the University of Virginia and went on to become a founder of the craft brewing movement. The city was not spared the fervent debate over prohibition, and the area went dry well in advance of the country in 1907. The Brew Ridge Trail set the standard for regional attractions focused on brewery destinations and sees thousands trek through the beautiful countryside enjoying libations. National award-winning breweries like Devils Backbone, Starr Hill and Three Notch'd elevated Charlottesville to a center of craft beer. Author Lee Graves offers a history and guide to brewing in scenic Charlottesville.