Oregon Hops and Brewing Archives

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Oregon Hops and Brewing Archives (OHBA) is a specialized repository dedicated to preserving the history and culture of hops production, brewing, and the craft beer industry in the state of Oregon, United States. Established in 2013, it is housed within the Special Collections and Archives Research Center at Oregon State University Libraries in Corvallis, Oregon. The OHBA is recognized as the first archive in the United States to focus exclusively on the brewing industry, highlighting Oregon's significant role in the national and international craft beer movement.

History

The Oregon Hops and Brewing Archives was founded in response to the rapidly growing craft beer industry in Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, regions known for their influential roles in the American craft beer revolution. The initiative aimed to capture and preserve the rich history of hops cultivation, brewing, and the craft beer industry, recognizing these as integral parts of the region's cultural and economic identity.

Collections

OHBA's collections encompass a wide range of materials, including historical documents, photographs, brewing equipment, marketing materials, and oral histories. These collections document the history of hops farming, the evolution of craft brewing, and the stories of key figures and breweries in Oregon's beer industry. Notable collections include records from pioneering Oregon breweries, materials related to hops research conducted at Oregon State University, and personal papers of industry innovators.

Research and Education

The Oregon Hops and Brewing Archives serves as a valuable resource for researchers, students, and the general public interested in the history of beer brewing and hops cultivation. OHBA supports academic research, provides educational opportunities, and engages with the community through exhibitions, public talks, and collaborations with breweries and industry organizations. Its resources are used in a variety of fields, including history, fermentation science, agriculture, and business.

Impact and Significance

OHBA's work in preserving the history of hops and brewing in Oregon has contributed significantly to the understanding and appreciation of the craft beer industry's cultural and economic impact. By documenting the evolution of brewing and hops cultivation, the archive plays a crucial role in supporting the study of craft beer's role in society, its technological advancements, and its contributions to regional identity and heritage.

See Also

• Craft beer
• History of beer
• Brewery
• Agriculture in Oregon