USA, AR: Ivory Bill Brewing expected to open in Siloam Springs this summer

Brewery and pub Ivory Bill Brewing is expected to finish renovations and open to downtown Siloam Springs later this summer, the Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported on May 14, citing the brewery�s owners.

Co-owners Casey Letellier and Dorothy Hall are working on transforming the former car showroom into a brewery by tearing out concrete, installing plumbing and outfitting the space with seating. The work will pay off in the space it will give to the community, Lettellier said.

"I lived in England for a few years and fell in love with pubs," he said. "It feels like an amazing intersection between all parts of the social sphere. Whether you're blue collar or white collar or left-leaning or right-leaning, there's a softening of dialogue when you can't say those who disagree with you politically are idiots because you meet them at the pub."

That slower conversation is something Lettelier wanted to spark, citing what he called the political discourse present in the United States today.

"I wanted to build a complete pub space and invite everyone."

Lettellier has been home brewing for 15 years and has experience working in Fayetteville, but felt Siloam Springs was missing a brewery to call its own.

The Ivory Bill will brew for its own taproom and for limited distribution in Northwest Arkansas, Lettelier said. It will partner with local farmers to produce seasonal beers that will join year-round brews.

While no food will be served, patrons are welcome to bring food from Siloam restaurants, Lettelier said.

The Ivory Bill is located at 516 E. Main St. Hours of operation have not been set.