Microbreweries -- California -- San Diego County

Scope and Contents This series consists of records - mostly forms, with one image ("Beer Mask") - that were collected as part of a Brewchive(R) initiative to document the pandemic's effect on San Diego's craft brewing industry. Forms asked the following questions:1. How has COVID-19 changed your life? How has it changed your work and/or employment? 2. How has social distancing changed how you work? If you are operating a business, how has social distancing changed your business...

Scope and Contents

In this 2019 interview, Tomme Arthur discusses his introduction to craft beer and home brewing; entry into the profession and work at various breweries beginning in the 1990s; founding Lost Abbey Brewing and other brewery ventures; mentoring individuals in the industry; and awards.

Scope and Contents

In their 2018 interview, Jeff and Dande discuss their introduction to craft beer; homebrewing; introduction of craft beer to the region; Jeff’s entry into the profession in the late 1990s; challenges and responsibilities of founding and building a brewery; packaging and distribution; charity work; competitions, judging, and awards; consumer education.

Scope and Contents

In this 2025 interview, Rick Blankemeier discusses his journey through his career in the San Diego Brewing industry starting with his work at Stone Brewing and moving on to Modern Times and Belching Beaver. While at Stone, Rick won the Spotlight Brewing Competition with his friend and co worker Robbie by brewing Sprocketbier.

Scope and Contents

In this 2018 interview, Steve Wagner addresses his background, education in beer and business, details about Stone Brewing Company, future plans, and words of wisdom for future brewers.

Abstract

The West Coaster records consist of physical items including published issues of the West Coaster: San Diego Beverage News magazine, San Diego Beverage Times magazine, Southern California Beer News, and some related artifacts and documents. The West Coaster website was also donated and has been archived by the California State University San Marcos University Library Special Collections.