Isle of Man Stamps and Coins will release of a brand-new set of eight stamps titled Brewed on Mann, celebrating the proud brewing heritage of the Isle of Man.
This special collection explores the fascinating history of beer-making on the island, from its early records to the vibrant brewing culture enjoyed today.
The Isle of Man has a rich and distinctive brewing history shaped by tradition and a strong sense of identity.
Island’s Brewing History
Brewing on the Isle of Man can be traced back to the early medieval period, when beer was originally brewed in households and monasteries using locally grown barley.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, brewing had become more commercialised as the Island developed as a centre of trade and tourism.
Adulterated beer was a widespread problem in the 1800s so The Brewers Act (otherwise known as the Manx Pure Beer Act) – was introduced by Tynwald, initially in 1827 and updated in 1874.
It mandates that beer be brewed using only water, malt, hops, and yeast. The Act remains a unique and enduring piece of legislation still enforced to this day.
The issue also shines a spotlight on significant anniversaries in Manx brewing: 175 years of Okell’s Brewery, founded in 1850 by Dr. William Okell, whose pioneering work in establishing brewing standards shaped the quality and reputation of beer across the island.
Beer Heritage
Ollie Neale, Okell’s Brewery Managing Director commented: “Celebrating 175 years is a significant milestone and this special stamp collection, created in conjunction with Isle of Man Post Office, is a fitting tribute to our heritage and the generations who’ve shaped our story and made Okell’s what it is today.
“We’re proud to be part of something that brings tradition and community together.”
Discussing the collection, Isle of Man Stamps & Coins General Manager Maxine Cannon said: “Beer and brewing are woven into the fabric of Manx life – socially, culturally, and historically.
“We are proud to mark these important anniversaries with a set of stamps that tells this story in a way that collectors, residents, and visitors alike will treasure. We are pleased to have worked alongside Ashgrove Marketing for the first time.
“I would like to thank everyone from the Manx brewing industry, both past and present, who have so enthusiastically supported the development of the Brewed on Mann collection.”
