Cremo Ale Quart

Cremo Ale 32 oz Cone Top Can

This 32-ounce quart cone top can was produced for The Cremo Brewing Company, Inc. of New Britain, Connecticut. Originating from the Internal Revenue Tax Paid era, the container reflects the large-format quart packaging adopted by regional breweries in the mid-twentieth century. The face design features Cremo's signature red diagonal ribbon slashing across a central oval, crowned by the intertwined "CBC" monogram and hops motif above bold "Ale" lettering. A notable label detail of this particular release is the absence of the phrase "Appetizing and Refreshing," which appeared on other production runs of the brewery's cone tops.

Cremo Ale was marketed as an authentic local offering tailored to tavern patrons and home consumers throughout Connecticut. The label emphasized local pride and heritage, incorporating the slogan "Connecticut's Best" nestled inside the script underline and highlighting the establishment motto "Quality Since 1905." The ale was promoted as a traditional, flavorful brew rooted in New England craftsmanship before mid-century market pressures altered regional drinking habits.

The brewery itself traces back to 1905, when Lithuanian immigrant and tavern keeper John Skritulsky assembled a group of investors to establish the Cremo Brewing Company at the foot of Belden Street in New Britain. The brewery thrived by serving the local industrial workforce, though it had to halt brewing operations during Prohibition in 1920. Following the repeal of Prohibition, Cremo resumed brewing in 1933 and soon embraced modern canning lines, offering beer and ale in cone tops and flat tops. Operating independently for two decades after Repeal, Cremo finally ceased operations in 1955 amid growing competition from large national shipping brewers.

Quart cone tops from independent New England breweries are highly regarded in breweriana collecting. Because 32-ounce containers were produced in smaller volumes and handled differently than standard 12-ounce cans, surviving examples from Connecticut makers like Cremo offer a tangible connection to the state's mid-century brewing history.