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well established and here for you

independently owned and operated since 1977

Bradford Street Brews

by Steve Desroches

Photos by Dan McKeon

One of the hallmarks of Provincetown’s unique culture is an invitation to all who land on the Cape tip to be as creative as they can be. Put on a show with whatever you do. In a world where many cities and towns are loaded with bland chains and soulless franchises, Provincetown revels in providing visitors and locals with retail and dining establishments that can be found nowhere else but here. It’s become not just part of the DNA of the town, but also a call to action asking those that open businesses here to present their work and vision to the town where the commitment to independently owned and operated establishments is part of the credo. The Provincetown Brewing Company (PBC) found that challenge irresistible and fulfilled a dream when they opened their doors at 141 Bradford Street earlier this month after working around the clock since May to present the only craft brewery on the Outer Cape.

Conceived by Chris Hartley two years ago, the Provincetown Brewing Company sought not only to brew beer in Provincetown, but also take inspiration from the town’s generous spirit by embracing activism in its mission. Fifteen percent of their profits are donated to progressive causes and charities, with two percent of those funds going to local organizations starting with The Commons, Summer of Sass, and The Generations Project. Each specially designed can of their beers, ranging from The Bearded Mistress, a smooth India Pale Ale to Golden Hook Ale, features information on the nonprofit organizations they support, bringing a bit of “draftivism” to Provincetown.

“ We thought how can we make a business that fits with the culture of Provincetown and then help perpetuate it,” says business partner Erik Borg.  “And make it a central ethos to the business. We’re committed to being a community space year-round and want to further explore how we can support the community’s needs.”

While the fall and early winter in Provincetown are still relatively active, and increasingly so, once the New Year passes the town can plunge into a deep quiet. That can be difficult not just for those who need employment, but also social outlets, as many businesses close until the spring. The lack of gathering spots, particularly ones where people can lounge and meet up, chips away at the community spirit during the long winter months. The need for more year-round businesses is one of the reasons the Provincetown Brewing Company is staying open 12 months a year. With a pool table, a combination of booths and couches, with outdoor seating in the warm months, it’s a perfect local hangout.

Photo: Dan McKeon

The PBC’s beers have already become popular at several bars and restaurants in town as they began distribution well before their physical space opened. While much of their beer is brewed offsite (in Jamaica Plain, Mass.), something that is done with other Cape Cod breweries and vineyards due to water restrictions and limitations throughout Barnstable County, the Bradford Street brewery features three large brewing tanks behind the bar where they’ll continually make a revolving offering of small batch brews. In addition, the PBC kept the kitchen, staff, and most of the menu that was in the space when it was 141 Natural Food Market, providing breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snack options.

“Anything that can make this place a vibrant year-round space welcoming to all kinds of people is what we are focused on,” says Borg. “Come and hang out with friends, use it as a meeting place, use it as you see fit. Community is the priority.”

By visiting the Provincetown Brewing Company you will help them support the following local orgaizations:

Summer of Sass transforms lives by relocating LGBTQI 18-20-year-olds from oppressive areas in the U.S. to the welcoming community of Provincetown. For years young queers heard “It Gets Better.” Summer of Sass takes the message one step further by showing the next generation what better looks like. summerofsass.com.

The Provincetown Commons supports creative professionals, artists, small enterprise, scientific and technological projects, and community initiatives through collaborative workspace, shared resources, and educational programs, and economic development initiatives. Through the development and management of accessible space and resources, The Commons serves as a nexus for collaboration, vibrant relationships, and new economic opportunity for creative people in Provincetown. provincetowncommons.org.

The Generations Project preserves the history of the LGBTQ+ movement through intergenerational storytelling. Since LGBTQ+ history has often been forgotten in the past, the group is dedicated to capturing the stories of Provincetown as a historic LGBTQ+ destination.  Now until Fall 2021, The Generations Project is building the Provincetown 400 Time Capsule, a physical manifestation of LGBTQ+ communities in Provincetown. thegenerationsproject.org.

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Graphic Artist

Ginger Mountain

Ginger Mountain (MS Communications Media, BA Fine Arts/Teaching Certification K-12) has been part of the graphic design team at Provincetown Magazine since 2008. Ginger has worked as a creative director, individual contractor, and freelance designer with clients representing many areas —business software, consumer products, professional services, entertainment, and network hardware to name just a few — providing creative layout and development of a wide range of print media content. Her clients ranged from small local businesses to large corporations and Fortune 500 companies, from New Hampshire to Georgia

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Phone: + 1 508-487-1000 ext 6
[email protected] 14 Center St. Provincetown MA, 02657