About
The Story
Redbud Brewing, born in 2024, stands as a beacon of craftsmanship and community in Augusta's burgeoning downtown. Committed to the artistry of brewing, we blend passion with precision to create exceptional beer that embodies the spirit of our city. With each sip, we invite you to taste the dedication and creativity woven into every brew, as we proudly contribute to the vibrant growth of Augusta's cultural landscape. Welcome to Redbud Brewing, where great beer meets great community.
The 1906 Building
Built in 1906, the building is almost 120 years old! According to the Library of Congress, in 1918-1919 it was the office of one of Augusta’s earliest newspapers The Augusta Gazette. In the winter of 1983, the building was Lo Vellette’s China and Gifts and survived a fire that started two doors north. The fire was extinguished, but due to the cold temperatures the buildings were coated with a thick wall of ice. The “Ice Palace” was later demolished and the damages amounted to over $100,000 at the time. Most recently it has served Augusta as an early childhood school, Sarah Chance Bistro Bakery, and a record store named Tunes & Treasures. Now it will be serving up craft beer for Augusta’s downtown for years to come!
Meet the Team
"No one can whistle a symphony. It takes an orchestra to play it."
Halford E. Luccock
"Sugar" Shane Scott
Shane Scott, hailing from Augusta, is a multifaceted individual with a diverse background. After attending Baptist Tabernacle School for high school, he pursued higher education at Mission University. Shane is not only the proud owner of Sugar Shane's Cafe but also a dedicated community leader who serves on the city council. Despite facing adversity with a stroke in 2020, Shane has made a remarkable recovery, showcasing his resilience and determination. He has been instrumental in revitalizing Augusta's downtown and the red brick district, serving as a driving force in community development efforts. Alongside his professional and civic endeavors, Shane cherishes his marriage to Tonya Scott.
Jeff & Michelle Brown
Co-Owners Jeff and Michelle Brown are lifelong residents of Butler County. They have resided in Augusta since 2013. Graduating from Bluestem High School, Jeff's journey led him to work his way up to Vice President of Operations at D-J Engineering Group Inc. Beyond his professional achievements, Jeff is a passionate advocate for craft beer, embodying his enthusiasm as an avid craft beer enthusiast. Jeff's dream has been to open a brewery in Augusta for a long time and Michelle is happy to see his dream coming true. Alongside his career and hobbies, Jeff is deeply engaged in his community, serving on the Augusta city council and working to build a vibrant community centered around initiatives like Redbud Brewing. Family plays a central role in Jeff's life and is a proud father to four sons: Chadd, Cole, Dylan, and Aydan.
Rick Goehring
Initially pursuing corporate IT post-college, Rick found no fulfillment despite success. His true passion, brewing, honed over decades, led him to open his brewery. Encouraged by his wife, he undertook the Craftbrewer’s Apprenticeship Program and gained hands-on experience. Augmenting his brewing expertise with business classes, Rick validated his vision before establishing Walnut River Brewing Company. His expertise also contributed to the restoration of our building and the development of Redbud Brewing. Now in El Dorado with his wife Lora and two children, Rick lives his dream of sharing great beer.
B.J. Hunt
B.J. Hunt didn't start his career in brewing. With an Executive MBA, he spent nearly two decades as a director and later president of a family-owned company, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit. He later joined Rick to create Walnut River Brewing Company. B.J. brings a wealth of experience in navigating regulatory agencies, marketing, customer relations, and sales. Notably recognized by the Wichita Business Journal's 40 Under 40 awards, B.J. is not only adept in business but also deeply passionate about the brewing industry. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding the team and fostering growth for Redbud Brewing. He and his wife Leslie, along with their two children, reside in Wichita.
Travis Rohrberg
Armed with a microbiology degree, extensive experience in ethanol and pharmaceuticals, and a background in homebrewing, Travis Rohrberg transitioned into professional brewing when he became a partner at Walnut River Brewing Company. Despite the jovial atmosphere among his colleagues, Travis is often the mature presence, affectionately dubbed "Dad." He is kind and calculative, often solving the complicated problems that arise while working in a brewery. Travis is a bit of a shutterbug with an artistic eye, and can often be found snapping pictures around the brewery. He resides in Andover with his wife Tessa and their two young sons.
Denver Ridgway
Denver Ridgway, a Bluestem High School and Wichita State University alum, has forged an impressive career journey within Kansas's craft beer industry. He has brewed beer at Radius Brewing Company, Walnut River Brewing Company, and River City Brewing Company. Denver's expertise and passion for brewing were recognized when he was appointed head brewer and general manager at Redbud Brewing, where he continues to excel. In addition to his brewing responsibilities, Denver actively manages Redbud Brewing's social media accounts and website, connecting with beer enthusiasts and fostering community engagement. Beyond his professional achievements, Denver is dedicated to his family, residing in Augusta with his spouse Kendi Ripperger and their young daughters.