A SPIRITED VOYAGE THROUGH TIME
Immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant history of Journeyman Distillery, as we journey from its humble beginnings to the present day. Our tale is steeped in innovation, passion, and an unwavering dedication to quality.
Our Beginnings
1847
THE BIRTH OF EK WARREN — LUDLOW, VERMONT
Every great journey starts with a single step. For us, it was the birth of EK Warren in the picturesque town of Ludlow, Vermont.1800’s
1850
THREE OAKS, MICHIGAN IS SETTLED BY HENRY CHAMBERLAIN
Our story takes us to Three Oaks, Michigan — a charming village named after three oak trees that guided train engineers in their travels. This town would later become the home of our historic Featherbone Factory.1861
AMERICAN CIVIL WAR BEGINS
1864
WARREN BEGINS WORKING FOR HENRY CHAMBERLIN
1865
AMERICAN CIVIL WAR ENDS
1867
THREE OAKS BECOMES A VILLAGE
1883
INNOVATION AT THE FEATHERBONE FACTORY
Here, EK Warren — a visionary and staunch prohibitionist — works with Henry Chamberlain to revolutionize the corset industry by replacing whalebone with featherbone. His groundbreaking invention brings worldwide recognition to Three Oaks, Michigan.1899
THREE OAKS BECOMES A SYMBOL OF PATRIOTIC VALOR AFTER SPANISH–AMERICAN WAR
President William McKinley dedicates the Dewey Cannon Monument — honoring Three Oaks' contributions to the Spanish-American War. This recognition solidifies the town's place in history as a symbol of patriotic valor.New Millenium
2000
BILL WELTER'S SCOTTISH SOJOURN
Fast forward to the new millennium, where Bill Welter — a young man with a passion for golf and a thirst for adventure — finds his way to St. Andrews, Scotland. It’s here that Bill meets Greg Ramsay, from Tasmania, and the two develop a passion for Scotch Whiskey and form a lifelong friendship that shapes their futures.2000’s
2006
TASMANIAN ADVENTURES
After developing the award-winning Barnbougle Dunes Golf Course, Greg sets his attention on turning an old grain mill into a distillery in his hometown of Bothwell, Tasmania. Bill travels to Tasmania to see Barnbougle, as well as the site for Greg’s Distillery.EARLY 2010
GAINING EXPERIENCE
Inspired by his friend Greg Ramsay's vision of transforming an old grain mill into a distillery, Bill travels back to Tasmania. His time spent at multiple distilleries on the island provides him with invaluable hands-on distilling experience.
MID 2010
DISTILLING THE FIRST BATCH OF RYE WHISKEY
Under the expert guidance of Master Distiller Robert Birnecker, Bill distills the first and only batch of Rye whiskey in the Ravenswood neighborhood of Chicago. This marks the beginning of Journeyman's journey into the world of spirits.
2010
FATHER & SON TEAM UP
Bill embarks on a journey with his father, Chuck Welter. Together, they acquire the middle section of the Featherbone Factory, setting the stage for the birth of Journeyman Distillery.
2011
BIRTH OF JOURNEYMAN DISTILLERY
The doors of Journeyman Distillery swing open, marking the start of a new era. With the completion of spring renovations and the commencement of distilling operations, Journeyman sets out to redefine craft spirits.
2012
DISTRIBUTION EXPANSION
Journeyman expands its distribution reach, bringing its meticulously crafted spirits to the shelves of retailers in Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, and New Jersey. The demand for our high-quality grains sourced from Midwestern organic farmers continues to grow.
2015
OPENING OF STAYMAKER RESTAURANT, WARREN HALL, PRODUCTION EXPANSION
The grand opening of Staymaker Restaurant within the historic Warren Hall adds a new dimension to the Journeyman experience. Guests can savor locally-inspired dishes expertly paired with Journeyman's artisanal spirits.2017
OPENING OF CATERING FACILITY & THE GRAINERY
Journeyman celebrates the opening of our Catering Facility and The Grainery, further solidifying our commitment to craftsmanship and sustainability. This expansion allows us to continue pushing boundaries and offering unforgettable experiences.
2018
A WEE PIECE OF SCOTLAND IN THREE OAKS
Welter's Folly welcomes visitors to its “course”, showcasing Journeyman's innovative spirit and dedication to pushing the envelope. Believed to be one of the 10 largest putting greens in the world and the largest not affiliated with a golf course, Welter’s Folly is truly a sight to see.
2019
EXPANDING OUR FOOTPRINTS
Our distribution footprint expands, reaching 35 states across America. Like an explorer charting new territories, we venture into new markets, bringing our meticulously crafted spirits to a wider audience. Who says the spirit of adventure can’t be bottled?
2020, 2022, 2023
'COUPLES CHOICE' AWARD FOR WEDDING VENUES
Our historic distillery in Three Oaks doesn’t just house our spirits — it’s a place where love stories unfold. In 2020, 2022, and 2023, we are honored with the 'Couples Choice' award for Wedding Venues. Our unique blend of rustic charm and modern amenities make us a favorite among couples who want a wedding as unique as their love story.
2022
WHISKEY OF THE YEAR – ASCOT AWARDS
We clinch the prestigious 'Whiskey of the Year' at the Ascot Awards. This recognition is a testament to our relentless pursuit of excellence and our commitment to crafting world-class spirits.
MAY 2023
DOUBLE GOLD AT SFWSC AND WHEAT WHISKEY OF THE YEAR
Our Not A King whiskey wins Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). Our Corsets wheat whiskey clinches the Wheat Whiskey of the Year title at the Ascot Awards for the third year in a row. It’s like hitting a hole-in-one, three times over!
LATE 2023
THE AMERICAN FACTORY GRAND OPENING - VALPARAISO, IN.
Our journey continues to unfold with the unveiling of our Valparaiso, Indiana location. Dating back to the mid-1800s, this site was ground zero for manufacturing in Valparaiso, with over a dozen different manufacturing companies calling it home across three centuries, prompting the name “The American Factory”. We welcome guests to indulge in our award-winning distillery, restaurant, brewery, and multiple event spaces. Ready to join us on this next exciting chapter?
Throughout the years, Journeyman's unwavering commitment to quality, innovation, and community has propelled us forward. From EK Warren's pioneering spirit to the present-day collaborations and breakthroughs, each milestone has contributed to the remarkable journey of Journeyman Distillery. Join us as we continue to create exceptional spirits and embrace the rich heritage that has shaped our story.
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