Bennett Brewing Company

Bennett Brewing Company

The long and successful history of the Bennett Brewing Company began with Charles Fox Bennett, a former premier of Newfoundland. Bennett was born at Shaftesbury, Dorset, England in 1793 and came to Newfoundland during the early 1800s. Around 1827, Bennett opened a brewery at Riverhead, St. John's. The brewery continued to operate for the next two decades and in 1883 its founder, Charles Bennett, died at the age of 91.

In 1885, the Riverhead Brewery was leased to Edward W. Bennett (no relation to Charles Fox Bennett). Edward Bennett manufactured ale and porter as well as aerated waters. Once again, the brewery saw success under the Bennett name and by 1890 Edward Bennett bought out his partners interest in the business. In 1902, Edward Bennett died and his brother, John R. Bennett, purchased the brewery.

During prohibition the brewery closed for about two years, yet reopened in 1918 selling a “near” beer. With the end of prohibition in 1924, the company resumed the production of strong beers with Dominion Ale, Stout, and Golden Lager being added to its line of products. John Bennett remained president of the brewery until his death in 1941, at the age of 78. At this time, Laurence V. Cashin became chairman of the company. The brewery was purchased by Carling O'Keefe in 1962, which continued to operate it until recently.

Stoneware jug stenciled with the maker's trademark “PRICE BRISTOL” and the words “THE BENNETT BREWING CO / RIVERHEAD / ST. JOHN'S.” Tan top, cream body. Approximately 1902-1916.