When the McCagh family opened 1812 Brewery—Allegany County’s first farm brewery—they did so with a commitment to craft quality beer while supporting the local community. In 2023, 1812 Brewery was already growing fast. Now, two years later, the McCagh family’s vision has become a reality. With support from state and local funding partners, 1812 Brewery has completed a purpose-built production facility, expanded its reach across Western Maryland, and added jobs to meet growing demand for its locally crafted beer.In June 2025, 1812 Brewery celebrated its eighth anniversary and the ribbon-cutting of a new 4,000-square-foot production space, which is now fully operational with state-of-the-art brewing systems. The facility marks a major milestone for the business, which had previously operated out of a historic 1812-era barn on the family’s farm just outside Cumberland.

Grant funding can be a linchpin for growth and innovation in the community. The Allegany County Economic and Community Development (ACECD) office is announcing three new funding programs that strategically address community needs to bolster businesses and fuel expansion. Adam Strott, ACECD’s Economic Development Specialist, highlights the importance of these grants, “The ACECD wants to see these opportunities utilized so businesses can realize their full potential, and to leverage all of the resources available in Allegany County.”

Located along the eastern edge of Allegany County, Locust Post Brewery welcomes visitors into the area’s vast world of craft beer and outdoor recreation. The brewery's 26-acre property creates a unique farmstead-style experience, hosting a regionally-recognized disc golf course that attracts visitors across the tri-state area.Denise and Tony Cornwell, owners of Locust Post Brewery, were inspired to include a course on their property during the establishment's early development phases. Denise Cornwell shares, “It’s a great day when you can enjoy a beer and play a round of disc golf.”Following the completion of the main brewery building in 2021, Denise and Tony shifted their focus toward incorporating a course to complement their visitors' experience. Cultivation Disc Golf, located in nearby Frederick, Maryland, designed a nine-basket course for Locust Post Brewery. The par-three course is designed for players of all skill levels — from amateurs to proficient players.

Owning and operating a brewery was not something initially in the plans for her family, says Terri McCagh. However, since the family opened 1812 Brewery less than a decade ago, they’ve experienced a lot of success and enjoyed the process, she says. Soon, they’ll expand with help from a $750,000 state grant.Located outside of Cumberland’s city limits, 1812 Brewery sits off the beaten path on a historic farm owned by the McCagh family. Visitors can sample beer brewed in the converted barn — which was first built in 1812 and is the brewery’s namesake — while enjoying the farm’s views of the county’s sprawling green mountains.