Rib Mountain Beer Flat Top Can

Rib Mountain Beer Flat Top

The Rib Mountain Beer flat top was produced by the Wausau Brewing Company of Wausau, Wisconsin. Named after the prominent geological landmark overlooking the city, this can is celebrated among breweriana collectors as one of the most distinctive mid-century regional issues from north-central Wisconsin.

Regional Heritage and Slogan

The can's graphics prominently pay tribute to Rib Mountain, incorporating the bold declaration, "Highest Point In Wisconsin". While modern geographical surveys recognize Timms Hill as having the highest natural elevation above sea level in the state, Rib Mountain was historically championed as the peak of Wisconsin due to its dramatic vertical prominence over the surrounding landscape. The landmark also holds a deep connection to regional folklore, including Northwoods tall tales claiming the quartzite ridge formed the burial site of legendary folk hero Paul Bunyan.

Collector Significance

Wausau Brewing Company introduced the Rib Mountain brand during an era when local tourism was flourishing around Rib Mountain State Park and its historic winter ski area. The metallic can design served as both a beverage container and a celebration of Marathon County pride.

Because Wausau Brewing Company operated as a smaller regional brewery with limited distribution compared to Milwaukee giants, Rib Mountain flat tops have become prized finds for collectors specializing in Wisconsin and Upper Midwest brewing history. Minor manufacturing variations exist across the label's history, with subtle differences found in mandatory legal text and side-panel statements.