Black Cloister Brewing Company

Our Story:

Grab a stool as we pour you a tale...

It Starts With a Vision

The idea for Black Cloister Brewing Company® was born from a trio of inspirations: a love of great beer, a desire to build community in Toledo, and a wish to give back.

Our founding crew is composed of homebrewers and craft-beer lovers...and probably at some point, every homebrewer toys with the idea of opening a brewery. For Tom Schaeffer, such an idea grew into a dream, formed roots, and took hold. As a Lutheran pastor, Tom knew that the brewery needed to satisfy both the body and the soul. This wasn't at all unorthodox for Tom; in 2012, he founded the Glass City Mashers, Toledo's largest homebrewing club. Prior to that, he held a men's study in his living room, pairing beer tastings with bible studies. Now, BCBC will enable him not just to continue his ministry, but also to build a robust community in Toledo.

With nearly two years of planning, the concept for the brewery evolved and shifted, until it all came together with our historic building, a sparkling new brew system, and an enthusiastic staff. Situated in the thriving Warehouse District of Toledo, Black Cloister Brewing Company® hopes to be a part of the revitalization of downtown by attracting visitors and forging new bonds between businesses, organizations, and most of all, between people.

"Brew good. Do good." isn't just a catchy slogan, it's the statement of our conviction that we can use our great craft beer for great purposes. We are dedicated to harnessing our success to help raise money for non-profit groups and worthy causes. Our first fundraiser was scheduled before our doors even opened, and we look forward to all the opportunities to give back that will come our way over the years. Founded by four Lutherans, giving a percentage of our profits back to the Church is also built right into our bylaws. Whether or not religion is your thing, we want to welcome you to come and lift a pint with us.