Wiedemann Genuine Draft 12 Oz Tab Top Can

Heileman Era Wiedemann Draft

The Wiedemann Genuine Draft 12 oz can represents a notable chapter in the history of Northern Kentucky brewing. Originally founded in 1870 by German immigrant George Wiedemann, the Geo. Wiedemann Brewing Company grew into the largest brewing operation in Kentucky, anchoring the industrial landscape along Columbia Street in Newport.

In 1967, the G. Heileman Brewing Company acquired Wiedemann as part of its major multi-brewery regional expansion strategy. Under this corporate structure, the Newport facility operated as the Geo. Wiedemann Division of G. Heileman. The "Genuine Draft" branding reflected the industry trend of marketing draft-style packaged beer to consumers across the Midwest and South.

For breweriana enthusiasts, this can features bold typography showcasing the "Genuine Draft" label alongside the iconic Wiedemann brand script and Newport mandatory text. Variations exist among production runs, characterized by subtle differences in mandatory wording, corporate copyright text, and graphic alignment on the seam and side panels.

The Newport plant remained in operation until G. Heileman closed the historic facility in 1983, ending over a century of local brewing on the site. This can remains a key collector's piece commemorating the final era of canning at the storied Newport brewery.