Stag, Carling Beer Flat Top Can

Belleville Carling Stag Flat Top

The Carling Brewing Company's production of Stag in Belleville, Illinois, represents a notable era in Midwestern breweriana. Stag originated in Belleville with the historic Western Brewery, later known as Griesedieck Western Brewing Company. Following Carling's acquisition of the Belleville brewery, the facility operated as a central regional packaging plant, canning Stag for distribution throughout the Midwest and the greater St. Louis metropolitan area.

This container showcases the classic Stag visual identity, highlighted by the prominent antlered stag emblem set against bold graphic panels. The mandatory legal text identifies the Carling Brewing Company, with Belleville, Illinois, designated on the label.

For breweriana enthusiasts, this can holds considerable historical appeal due to Carling's decentralized, multi-plant distribution model. Known variations circulate among collectors, featuring differences in the mandatory roster of associated brewery cities listed alongside Belleville. Additional variations include subtle distinctions in fabricator markings along the seam and rims, such as stamps from the Continental Can Company, making this piece an enduring staple for collectors of Illinois brewing heritage.