Genesee Can Crow

Color illustration of a brownish gold rooster standing on green grass on a white background with black text along the top

The Genesee Brewery was founded in Rochester, New York in 1878 when Mathius Kondolf purchased and renamed the Reisky & Spies Brewery. Like many Pre-Prohibition breweries in North America, it was forced to close after the passing of the 18th Amendment in 1919. However, Genesee's legacy did not end there; when Prohibition was repealed in 1932, former brewmaster Louis A. Wehle purchased Genesee brewery and established Genesee Brewing Company. They continued to grow and thrive throughout 20th century and by 2000, their beers were available in 39 states. The brewery remains an integral part of the Rochester community and celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2018 with a year-long celebration.