A literary reading and Vine Street Brewing beer release event highlighting St. Louis boxer Henry Armstrong
On Thursday, 6 PM, December 12, 2024, I’m teaming up with Vine Street Brewing for a literary reading and beer release event in honor of St. Louis triple crown boxing champion Henry Armstrong. Armstrong is the namesake of Vine Street’s specially-brewed lager and the original Henry Armstrong beer from the late 1930s.
Armstrong steps into the spotlight of a chapter in my forthcoming book, Barons, Brewers, and Bootleggers: A Social History of Beer in Missouri (Fall 2025).
You’ll learn about Armstrong’s upbringing, relationship to beer, surprising connections to Kansas City and the 18th and Vine area. You’ll also gather details about the mystery behind the original beer that bore his name and likeness. Armstrong’s story is worthy of a podcast series rich with adventure, colorful characters, and lore.
He won championship titles in three different weight divisions, a feat no other boxer had managed. Further, Armstrong was far more than a winning boxer. He experienced highs and lows in life. He faced battles that would lead him to reinvent himself. In addition, Armstrong left a lasting legacy that should be recognized and celebrated today.
Sneak peek – here’s the opening line to my essay and chapter. “Henry Armstrong fought for many reasons, for himself, against himself, for some reasons he wouldn’t understand until later in life.”
Event details – 6 PM, Thursday, Dec. 12, Vine Street Brewing, 2000 Vine.
Please join me for a taste of this beer and learn about the rich, fascinating life of St. Louis boxer Henry Armstrong. I’m excited to share his story and celebrate Missouri history. What better way to connect with others over local beer and local lore?
Thanks to Vine Street Brewing for the opportunity to collaborate and share this story.
Keep writing, keep growing, keep going.