New microbrewery in downtown Oxford ready for grand opening

HomeGrown Brewing Company is set to officially open its doors on Wednesday, April 12 in downtown Oxford.

The brewery will have several beers on tap, and will also carry a number of ciders and wines. Beers include an Australian-hopped IPA, a nutty Brown, and the Whamber, HomeGrown's unique Amber-and-Wheat ale hybrid. A 15- to 20-item food menu featuring fresh and seasonal ingredients is also planned.

HomeGrown is run by the Powers family, with each member assuming roles suited to their strengths. John Powers is Brewmaster while his wife Marie handles interior design duties. Eldest son Joe is Brewer and Production Manager and his wife Kate serves as Media Liaison. In the middle is Jeff, front-of-house General Manager who also oversees Brand Design. And youngest sibling Katie takes on the task of promoting the brewery on social media.

For Jeff, spring is the perfect time to open HomeGrown. The Powers family took the time to make sure the brewery was done right, overhauling a former VFW and Township Hall. Drop ceilings and beige walls have been removed to reveal brick and warm accents. 

They've also used pieces of their family farm throughout the brewery, which contributes to a down-to-earth feeling. Barn doors have been used to create the bar facade. Even grandma's old furniture has been reupholstered.

"You watch so many people open breweries, and one thing I've learned is that you can't discount atmosphere. And we have it," says Jeff. "It's rustic. It's approachable. Down-to-earth is kind of our motto."

HomeGrown Brewing Company is located at 28 N. Washington St. in downtown Oxford.

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MJ Galbraith is a writer and musician living in Detroit. Follow him on Twitter @mikegalbraith.