Springfield, Oregon
Plank Town Brewing has become a defining fixture of historic downtown Springfield, a brewpub where craft beer meets community revitalization. Founded in early 2013 by local business owner Bart Caridio, the venture was established with a specific mission to serve as an economic catalyst for the surrounding district. By choosing to settle in the restored Odd Fellow building, the business helped breathe new life into a landmark structure, signaling a new era of investment and foot traffic for downtown. That commitment turned the brewery into a cornerstone of the neighborhood, where the architecture of the past meets the craft culture of the present.
The Origins of Plank Town Brewing
The story of Plank Town Brewing began with a vision of urban renewal. When Bart Caridio opened the doors in early 2013, he did not just want to sell beer; he wanted to help rebuild the heart of Springfield. The selection of the restored Odd Fellow building was a deliberate choice, blending the historic charm of the city with a modern, social atmosphere. This move helped anchor the downtown area, encouraging other businesses to see the potential in the historic district and creating a welcoming space for residents and visitors alike.
From the beginning, the focus was on quality and authenticity. The goal was to create a destination that felt rooted in the community, providing a high-quality dining and drinking experience that would draw people back to the city center. This strategic placement in the Odd Fellow building provided a unique aesthetic that set the brewpub apart, offering a sense of permanence and pride in Springfield’s heritage.
The Craft Behind the Pours
The excellence found at Plank Town Brewing is the result of a dedicated team of brewing professionals. Head brewer Steve Van Rossem, who brought his expertise from the renowned Block 15 Brewing, has managed the brewing operations since day one. Joining him in the early stages was co-brewer Curtis Phillips, who previously had the experience of opening Pike Brewing’s Seattle brewpub. Together, they established a standard of quality that put the brewery on the map for craft beer enthusiasts across Lane County.
The technical side of the operation is equally impressive. The 10-barrel brewing system was carefully sourced by Van Rossem from various locations around the state, showcasing a resourceful approach to building the facility. The early days of recipe development were a collaborative effort, with some of the first brews—including an ESB and a smoked porter known as the Foggy Scotsman—actually being first brewed at Block 15 before they became staples of the Springfield location. This foundation of professional mentorship and technical skill ensured that every pour met a high standard of craft.
Signature Sips and Local Flavors at Plank Town Brewing
Visitors to Plank Town Brewing are greeted by an extensive 20-tap system that offers a diverse range of flavors. The selection includes house-brewed beers, rotating guest taps, cider, and session mead. For those who appreciate traditional methods, the brewpub features two cask beer engines that pour house and guest cask-conditioned ales, providing a texture and flavor profile that is rare in many modern taprooms.
Among the most celebrated offerings is Bart’s Best Bitter, which earned first place as the people’s choice at the McKenzie Cider & Craft Beer Festival. Another fan favorite is the Hobbit’s Habit, a strong dark ale that was revived by Steve Van Rossem and has since remained a staple of the menu. These beers are designed to complement a Northwest-inspired food menu that prioritizes regional partnerships. The kitchen sources ingredients from local suppliers to ensure freshness and support the local economy, including:
- Long’s Meats for quality proteins
- Saverio’s Bakery and Bread Stop Bakery for fresh breads
- Benedetti’s Meats for specialty cuts
This dedication to local sourcing mirrors the community-centric approach seen in other regional success stories, such as the industrial legacy detailed in the Eugene Bike Trailers: The Burley Design Story, where local innovation drives regional pride.
A Community Hub and Bike Friendly Destination
Beyond the beer, Plank Town Brewing has evolved into a vital community gathering spot. It is a place where neighbors meet, business deals are struck, and visitors discover the charm of Springfield. Recognizing the active lifestyle of Oregonians, the business is officially listed as a Bike Friendly Business. This means that cyclists can stop by with confidence, knowing they have access to essential amenities such as public restrooms, Wi-Fi, complimentary water, charging stations, and secure bike parking.
By catering to the cycling community, the brewpub integrates itself into the broader culture of exploration and outdoor recreation that defines the Pacific Northwest. Whether someone is finishing a long ride or just exploring the downtown corridor, the brewery provides a welcoming sanctuary. This inclusive atmosphere helps foster a sense of belonging and encourages people to engage with their city in a slow, intentional way.
Celebrating a Decade: The 10th Anniversary Strong Ale Festival
In February 2023, Plank Town Brewing reached a major milestone and celebrated its 10th anniversary with a grand event. The festivities took place on February 25 and 26, 2023, in the form of a strong ale festival. The highlight of the celebration was the release of the Springtucky Strong Ale, a special anniversary brew designed to mark a decade of service to the community.
The festival was a true collaborative effort, featuring high-test ales from six local brewery friends. Adding to the variety, a special cask was provided by the 3 Legged Crane, showcasing the enduring bonds between regional brewers. The event offered two tiers of access for attendees:
- Standard Pass: For $10, guests received four 4oz tasters and a commemorative glass.
- VIP Pass: For $50, guests enjoyed early admittance, a commemorative glass, a t-shirt, ten 4oz tasters, and a full bottle of the Springtucky Strong Ale.
The atmosphere was one of celebration and gratitude, reflecting on ten years of growth from a single vision in an old building to a recognized destination in the Oregon craft beer scene.
The Legacy of Mentorship and Growth
The impact of Plank Town Brewing extends beyond its own four walls through the professional growth of its staff. A poignant example of this is the journey of John Crane. Crane served as the assistant brewer at Plank Town until 2020, where he honed his craft under the guidance of the leadership team. In 2020, he took a leap of faith to purchase Brewers Union Local 180 in Oakridge, which he subsequently renamed the 3 Legged Crane.
This transition illustrates a ripple effect of craft beer growth across Lane County. When a successful business like Plank Town invests in its people, those individuals often go on to create new opportunities in other small towns, strengthening the overall economic fabric of the region. This pattern of growth and community investment is similar to the systemic support provided by Oregon’s Outdoor Recreation Grants, which helps develop infrastructure and opportunities throughout the county.
As Plank Town Brewing continues its journey, it remains a testament to what can happen when a business owner invests in both a historic building and the people around them. From the first brew of the Foggy Scotsman to the cheers of the 10th anniversary festival, the brewpub has proven that craft beer can be a powerful tool for community revitalization. For anyone visiting Springfield, a stop at the Odd Fellow building for a pint of Bart’s Best Bitter is a great way to experience the heart of the city.
Sources
For more information and the most current schedules, please visit the official festival resources:
- Plank Town Brewing Company – Travel Oregon
- Plank Town Brewing celebrates milestone 10th Anniversary — New School Beer + Cider
Image credits
- Featured: Photo by PDX Beer Geek (CC BY-SA) via Openverse.