Swan Brewery (Witham)

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Witham Swan Hodges F5687.jpg

Swan Brewery, Bridge Street, Witham, Essex

Cornelius W Hodges was recorded here between 1882 and 1906.

Pub still trading.

From 1987


From ESSEX BREWERS - The Malting and Hop Industries of the County by Ian P Peaty 1992 now out of print ISBN 978 1 873966 02 4

The Swan public house is situated in Bridge Street close to the River Brain, where previously upstream there had been a tannery, and downstream behind the small brew house there were waterworks and reservoirs, so there was an ample water supply. The Swan was a Ridley & Sons Ltd house, which suffered a fire in 1990, thereby necessitating closure and complete renovation. However, on the flank wall facing the river may still be discerned sign-writing on the brickwork reading "Home Brewed Beers". This is believed to be the last remaining such sign. Brewing was taking place here in 1882 to 1899, trading as William Hodges, Swan Brewery. From the last date to 1906, his son, Cornelius W. Hodges, carried on the business and shortly afterwards closed down.

The house was purchased on 24th June, 1929, for £1,800 from Charles Brown & Sons Ltd, Hatfield Peverel Brewery, with an additional £425 paid for the brewery outbuildings.