The collection of artifacts inside the DuBois Historical Society is impressive. There are three buildings that showcase the history of the region. One of the most popular displays is the old DuBois Brewery.

Todd Thompson is one of the volunteers who works inside what could be considered a museum.  He remembers when the plant was producing beer many years ago.

“They used wooden kegs to transport beer. They would take the beer and store it in sawdust because they had to keep beer cold,” said Thompson.

The DuBois Brewery opened in the late 19th century and over the years employed generations of people. Frank Hahne emigrated from Germany and saw the city as the perfect spot.

“DuBois had what they called top of the mountain water which was the DuBois Reservoir. “He had good laborers. He had farms which produced the grain he needed also said he had some good beer drinkers,” said Thompson.

The brewery survived prohibition, as one of only two breweries in the country never to be suspected of breaking the law.  It was also sued for producing a “Budweiser” label.

“Frank Hahne was from Budweis, Germany.  So when he came here started DuBois Budweiser beer. Anheuser-Busch took him to court many times, each time losing their battle,” smiles Thompson.

It was just one of the many varieties of beer Hahne produced. In the 1970’s Iron City bought the plant and after settling the lawsuit with Anheuser-Busch closed the plant. Old items from the brewery remain valuable and inside the Historical Society sits a display that is worth thousands of dollars.  

The DuBois Historical Society is located on along West Long Avenue.  Special Tours are encouraged and may be arranged by calling 814-371-9006 during regular museum hours.