Elder Piper Beer & Cider, a beloved establishment nestled in the scenic expanse of Northern Michigan, embodies more than just a place to enjoy finely crafted beverages. It represents a profound journey back to roots, a testament to community spirit, and a celebration of regional identity. Founded by the dynamic duo Eeva Richmond and Trace Redmond, this brewery and cidery stands as a beacon of local pride, offering a unique blend of traditional brewing artistry and a deep connection to the land. Their story is one of serendipitous returns, shared passions, and the meticulous construction of a space where every detail, from the repurposed architecture to the meticulously sourced ingredients, speaks of belonging and authenticity.
A Homeward Bound Journey: The Genesis of Elder Piper Beer & Cider
The narrative of Elder Piper Beer & Cider begins with a compelling return to the picturesque landscapes of Northern Michigan, specifically Petoskey, by its co-founder, Eeva Richmond. Having left her hometown at the tender age of seventeen for an enriching exchange program in Antwerp, Belgium, Eeva's global adventures ultimately steered her back to the familiar embrace of the North. During her formative years abroad, immersed in the rich beer culture of Belgium, Eeva cultivated a profound appreciation for beer as more than just a beverage, viewing it as a cornerstone of cultural identity. This newfound passion, combined with her innate entrepreneurial spirit, laid the groundwork for her future endeavor.
Upon her return to the United States, fate intervened during Eeva's college years, leading her to Trace Redmond. Their initial encounter, sparked by a spirited debate over banana bread, quickly blossomed into a partnership rooted in mutual respect and shared culinary inclinations. Trace, with a solid background in biology and a burgeoning interest in homebrewing, honed his craft at renowned breweries like Founders and Roak Brewing Company, eventually serving as R&D brewer at Highland Brewing. Eeva, initially pursuing a career in art history and museum work, soon recognized the vibrant community and camaraderie within the brewing world, gravitating towards it herself, holding roles at Sierra Nevada and Highland Brewing.
Despite their flourishing careers elsewhere, the magnetic pull of Northern Michigan remained undeniable for both Eeva and Trace. For Eeva, it was the irreplaceable feeling of home; for Trace, despite his Pennsylvanian origins, it was the cherished memories of studying dune grasses and the profound connection to the area's natural beauty. This shared yearning for a sense of rootedness ultimately propelled them to establish Elder Piper Beer & Cider in the very community they both cherished. The name itself, a thoughtful homage to Trace's ancestral lineage, intertwines their personal histories with their professional aspirations, creating a tapestry of family, place, and passion.
Their vision for Elder Piper was clear: to create a welcoming, communal space that felt like an extension of their own home. This ethos is vividly reflected in the taproom's design, which thoughtfully repurposes elements from a historic 1930s community switchboard station. From the hundred-year-old ceiling beams transformed into a striking bar to the lampshades crafted from cross-sections of ancient wood, every detail resonates with history and sustainability. This commitment to local heritage extends to their brewing practices, where Trace meticulously sources Michigan-grown malt, hops, and fruit, showcasing the region's rich agricultural bounty in every glass. Their diverse offerings include the acclaimed Sandhill Crane petite saison, a celebration of Michigan malt, and the flagship Beach Grass helles, a "lake lager" that perfectly captures the laid-back lakeside vibe. Furthermore, their Shoreline IPA series continuously explores the evolving world of hoppy beers, adapting with each new iteration, much like the ever-changing Michigan coastline that inspires it. Beyond beer, Elder Piper also excels in cidermaking, a nod to Trace's Pennsylvania roots and Eeva's family orchard, with their Pillows & Blankets cider earning national recognition.
As Elder Piper Beer & Cider celebrated its second anniversary, Eeva and Trace reflected on their remarkable journey. Trace envisions future expansions, including a canning line and more barrel-aged creations, while Eeva hopes to further cement the brewery's role as a gathering place for both locals and visitors. Their ambition extends to sharing the unique "taste of up north" with a broader audience, inviting people from across the country and around the globe to discover the warmth and hospitality that defines their beloved Northern Michigan home. Elder Piper is not merely a destination; it is an experience, a welcoming embrace, and a vibrant hub where stories are shared, connections are forged, and the spirit of the North thrives.
The Enduring Resonance of Place: A Reflection on Elder Piper's Journey
The journey of Elder Piper Beer & Cider offers a profound reflection on the concept of "home" and the enduring power of place. In an era often defined by transient connections and rapid changes, Eeva and Trace's decision to anchor their lives and livelihoods in Northern Michigan underscores a yearning for authenticity and community. Their story highlights how a deep personal connection to a region can imbue a business with soul, transforming it from a mere commercial enterprise into a living, breathing extension of its environment and the people within it. The meticulous care they invest in sourcing local ingredients and repurposing historical elements within their taproom speaks volumes about their respect for heritage and sustainability. This approach not only results in exceptional craft beverages but also cultivates a unique atmosphere that fosters genuine human connection, much like the cherished traditions of an intimate family gathering. Elder Piper's success serves as an inspiring blueprint for entrepreneurial endeavors that prioritize community integration and environmental stewardship, demonstrating that true innovation often lies in drawing strength from one's roots while inviting the world to partake in its rich harvest.