Jamestown Brewing Company will host a program called “The Early History of Chautauqua County Brewers, Bottlers and Beers” Saturday. Submitted Photo.

JAMESTOWN — Chautauqua County is experiencing a beer renaissance with numerous micro breweries and craft beer establishments currently operating in several local communities. But those businesses currently in operation are just the latest in a long line of bottlers and breweries that existed both before and after prohibition.

On Saturday night, Oct. 12, Chautauqua County Historical Society trustee and historian Bob Johnston will focus on some of those past brewing operations with a program entitled “The Early History of Chautauqua County Brewers, Bottlers and Beers.” The program is free and open to the public.

Johnston plans to speak to what early county residents were doing when it came to the beer trade up to the end of prohibition. He’ll offer a rundown of early brewers and bottler history and artifacts. He’ll also explain what’s gone and what still remains, including the mundane, interesting and sometimes macabre details of the early brewing industry.

Johnston is not only a trustee with the historical society, but is also the founder and driving force behind the Jamestown Street Railway Trolley Car 93 Restoration Project. He’s also the organizer of the annual Westfield Book and Paper Show, taking place each year the first Saturday in May.

To coincide with the topic, the historical society is partnering with a newly opened local brewing establishment in presenting this special program. It will take place at 6 p.m. Oct. 12 inside the Jamestown Brewing Company, 119 W. Third St., Jamestown.

There is no cost to attend the presentation and the event is open to the general public. A variety of food and refreshments will be available for sale before or after the program. In addition, some of the brewery’s product will also be available for sale during presentation. And the business will also offer a tour of the new brewing operation at the end of Johnston’s presentation, tentatively set for 7 p.m.

RSVPs are appreciated but not required. To RSVP, please call 326-2977 or email CCHS@McClurgMuseum.org.