August Schell founded his brewery alongside the Cottonwood River in 1860, seizing a golden opportunity in a community full of thirsty Germans. The brewery survived the Dakota Conflict, Prohibition, and competition from larger brewers to become the nation’s second-oldest family owned and managed brewery. The fifth generation owners today produce about a dozen award-winning craft beers, as well as 1919 root beer. In 2002, the brewery also acquired the Grain Belt label. Visitors may tour the brewery and sample its brews in the new tap room, modeled after traditional German beer halls. Visitors also are invited to explore the gardens of the family home, the brewing museum and gift shop.