The Distillery

The great building that we are gathered in today was once a very reputable distilling establishment. The Kentucky Distilling Co. opened in 1904 and as the Temperance Movement gained steam, the co. changed ownership and became The Louisville Distilling Co. , which served the Savannah community until 1907. By 1920, Georgia joined the nation in the prohibition of alcohol. Our country saw over 1100 operating distilleries dwindle to a mere 33, producing alcohol for medical purposes only. With the Distillery’s closing, the building became Freich’s Pharmacy, operating as a drug store, soda fountain and lunch counter until 1940. Rumor has it that our 2nd floor produced bathtub gin and homemade beer throughout Prohibition years. In 2008 the Volen Family resurrected The Distillery, using an 1895 photo of a historic saloon as the guide. The mahogany topped bar and oak back-bar were crafted, and now features an antique copper still. During construction, various artifacts were unearthed dating back to the American Revolution, including musket balls, bones, dishware, clay pipes and liquor bottles. We hope you enjoy seeing our collection of posters and memorabilia such as photos from the Freich family, vintage alcohol prescriptions and newspapers of this bygone era. The Distillery is the area’s only true craft beer bar and restaurant with 21 Craft Beers on tap and over 99 bottled beers. We offer the finest fresh pub food inspired by the beers showcased. We welcome you to our family owned business and hope to see you many times.