3719 Walnut St, Denver, Co 80205
BSB calls Five Points or, more specifically, the RiNo Art District home. We are 15 blocks directly north of Coors Field in a mostly industrial area. At first glance, the unknowing passerby would consider our neighborhood an abandoned, sketchy, and useless part of town. However, upon further inspection, he or she would see that behind every closed and graffiti-covered garage door is a musician, a painter, a metalworker, or an artist of some form. The area calls for creativity, almost requires it, because the simple-minded just wouldn't see the beauty.
There is new life being breathed into the area because of its industrial charm and its low rent. This movement didn't start yesterday, nor has it happened overnight. In fact, our neighbors across the street moved into the area 12 years ago, long before it was hip and cool. The fact remains that the area is still dangerous, it is still rough. Just last week we had 2 windows shot out of our Dodge pickup that was sitting in a barbed-wire fence enclosed yard. Every night some other asshole tags our building in a continued struggle over territory.
Although there is a little grit here, we are still filled with intrigue and the desire to locate our little brewery here. We have met so many of the neighbors who have warmly welcomed us and have been genuinely excited to have more energy pumped into the once-abandoned area. We are continually inspired by the artistic movement surrounding us. We are excited to be in a position to help define a neighborhood, and we will take that priveledge and responsibility seriously. It is our plan to be a good neighbor, to help build the community, and to add to the diverse culture already here.
This past weekend, Danielle and I rode our bikes around and snapped photos to show others what our neighborhood looks and feels like. A few of these are below. For the whole set, check out http://www.flickr.com/photos/blackshirtbrewingco and click on the RiNo Art District set. Cheers!
-Branden
