In the heart of Charleston, a unique story brewed between two unlikely companions gave rise to Rusty Bull Brewing Co., an establishment that has quickly become a cornerstone of the local community. Founded by Brian Bogstad, a seasoned mechanic, and Ben Mayer, a devoted preacher, this brewery originated from a simple yet profound question one evening: “What do you think about brewing beer?” This query marked the beginning of a journey that transformed a shared hobby into an obsessive endeavor, culminating in the establishment of Rusty Bull Brewing Co. on West Montague in North Charleston. Their story is not just about beer; it’s a testament to finding a new direction in life and the shared experiences that shape our destinies.
The History of Rusty Bull
The name ‘Rusty Bull’ itself carries a deeply personal significance for the founders. It embodies the spirit of influential figures in their lives; for Brian, it represented his wife’s uncle, Dave “Bull” Bullard, a man of wisdom and unwavering support, and for Ben, it was a nod to his late father, Russ “Rusty” Mayer. These inspirations, combined with a divine nudge towards brewing, provided the foundation for their venture. Transitioning from preaching to brewing might seem like a leap, but for Ben, it was a natural evolution of his calling, an opportunity to engage with people in a different yet profound way. The inception of Rusty Bull is a tale of inspiration, creativity, and the pursuit of passion, seasoned with a touch of humor and a lot of heart.
About the Expansion and Community
In June 2022, Rusty Bull Brewing Co. took a significant step forward by opening a second taproom on King Street in downtown Charleston. This expansion was driven by the desire to extend its reach and engage with a broader segment of Charleston’s vibrant community. This new venue epitomizes their initial vision of creating spaces that foster community connections, offering a place where staff, local business owners, patrons, and new faces can gather as a family. Their commitment to bringing people together over great beer is evident in their deliberate choices of location, creating spaces that resonate with their ethos of community and connection.
The King Street taproom is not just an expansion in terms of geography; it represents the embodiment of Rusty Bull’s mission to embed itself deeply within the fabric of Charleston’s community. Brian and Ben see this growth as an opportunity to build meaningful relationships and support the community they love. The new location, equipped with a full restaurant, bar, outdoor patio, and big-screen TVs for game nights, offers a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. Looking ahead, the founders are excited about the possibilities that their downtown presence will unlock, including the chance to meet more amazing people and contribute positively to the collective Charleston experience. Rusty Bull Brewing Co.’s story is one of craft, community, and a vision for a future where everyone is part of the family, even if just for a beer or two.
Source: rustybullbrewing.com
Header Image Source: rustybullbrewing.com
