River Street is significant in the industrial history of New Haven as the location of several metalworking enterprises that characterized the city's transformation into a manufacturing center between the end of the Civil War and the beginning of World War I. One of the complexes in the district, the H. B. Bigelow Company boiler works, was a national leader in its field of steam boilers. Hobart B. Bigelow himself participated in the formation of related enterprises, including the National Pipe Bending Company, which also helped make the River Street area a center of metal-fabricating industry.

 This program will explore the history of two remaining buildings within the historic Bigelow boiler works currently occupied by Phoenix Press and Armada Brewing. Attendees will gain perspective on the quirks of doing business in old buildings and the rewards for doing so. Brian Driscoll of Phoenix Press will share his lessons learned from installing the largest wind turbine in Connecticut to power his print shop. John Kraszewski of Armada Brewing will provide a brief tour of the brewhouse and how he makes some of the most innovative beer in Connecticut.

•  Attendees will receive a complimentary drink ticket as well as a lunch provided through our catering partner, Haven’s Harvest.

•  Free parking is available within the Armada Brewing lot (enter off of Lloyd Street). Additional free parking can be found along Lloyd Street.

•  The seating area for this program is located on the second floor of the brewery. Due to the age of the building, it is only accessible via stairs; there is no elevator or other ADA accommodations available. We apologize for this inconvenience.

Tickets for this NHPT tour are $30 per person. Space is limited to the first 50 registrants. We will be accepting walk-ins for this tour. Please bring cash or a check payable to the New Haven Preservation Trust.