More than two years ago, local entrepreneur Paul Rockwell had a vision about the reinvention of the near eastside of the city of Delaware. Step one was the acquisition and remodeling of the 150-year-old Columbus, Cleveland Northern Railway freight depot. Step two in June 2019, was the opening of an innovative Food Truck Depot on that site. The concept provided space for multiple food trucks with indoor and outdoor seating, a sand volleyball court, a fire pit, additional outdoor games, and a full-service bar.
Step three began this past weekend with the addition of the Homestead Public House. In the first of perhaps many expansions, the Heath-based brewery opened its first satellite location in Delaware. There are 20 taps behind the bar, mainly pouring their standard lineup of house beers, with two taps reserved for guest beers from fellow Delaware other craft breweries Restoration Beer Worx and Old Dog Alehouse. You will also find cider on tap, a selection of wine, and custom cocktails, including “no proof” cocktails.
The taproom itself features high ceilings with the original 150-year-old wood beams, ceiling fans, lots of sliding doors to open up to the outside patio on lovely summer days, and raw wood planking covering both the walls and the ceiling. You might note a piece of the original interior wall hanging in the southwest corner of the building. Wander around the taproom and check out the eclectic tables salvaged locally.
General Manager Rich Workman is out to develop a family-friendly neighborhood location with a great vibe. He describes it as being “like hanging out in your cool uncle’s garage”. Live bands are already on the event list for both indoor and outdoor shows. The outdoor stage is currently under construction for the band, and will double as additional seating when not in use.
The sand volleyball court should see heavy usage with both league play and open play starting in May. One volleyball highlight is certain to be the Battle of the Breweries, with a dozen or more central-Ohio breweries battling it out both on the court and at the bar. Each participating brewery will have one of their beers on tap. Besides who wins the competition in the sand, there is also competition to see who is the first to blow their keg.
Perhaps the most unique aspect of the Homestead Public House will be their brewing system. Founder/brewer Adam Rhodes is installing a Burton Union brewing system. This very unusual, very rare system was developed in the 19th century in England, and reportedly only still used in the UK by Marston’s Pedigree. Making it operational is not a sure thing, but if Rhodes is able to pull it off, seeing it in action will be worth the price of a beer.
Homestead Public House is currently open Wednesday through Sunday, but will be adding Tuesday to their schedule in April, and will open seven days a week starting in May. They are located at 59 Potter Street in Delaware — by the railroad tracks, of course.
