You ever walk into a place and just feel the history in the floorboards? That’s the vibe in Dennison, Ohio. People call it “Dreamsville, USA.” It’s a nickname from the WWII era when over a million GIs stopped at the local railway canteen. But honestly, if you’re visiting today, the real spirit of the town isn’t just at the depot—it’s sitting inside a 19th-century Methodist church on Grant Street.
Holy Moley Brewing Co isn't your typical cookie-cutter craft taproom with industrial Edison bulbs and cold metal stools. It’s got soul. Real, stained-glass, high-ceiling, "did-I-just-hear-an-organ?" soul.
The Resurrection of 306 Grant Street
Most breweries start in a garage. This one started with a steeple. Housed in a gorgeous brick building that dates back to the 1800s, Holy Moley Brewing Co has managed to pull off a tricky balancing act. They kept the reverence of the old Methodist church—think massive windows and incredible acoustics—while turning it into a community hub where the only thing being poured is top-tier craft beer and wine.
It’s a destination. If you’re exploring the Tuscarawas County area or checking out the Harrison County History of Coal Museum nearby, this is the logical home base.
The atmosphere is convivial. That's a fancy way of saying people actually talk to each other here. Whether you’re sitting in the spacious indoor taproom or hanging out on the patio during a humid Ohio summer evening, you’re going to meet someone with a story.
📖 Related: The Betta Fish in Vase with Plant Setup: Why Your Fish Is Probably Miserable
What’s Actually in the Glass?
Look, a cool building only gets you so far. If the beer tastes like dishwater, the novelty wears off fast. Fortunately, Holy Moley doesn't play around with their recipes. They run a tight, small-batch system—currently a two-barrel setup—which means the rotation stays fresh.
You’ve gotta try the local favorites. Midnight Ride is a heavy hitter for the dark beer fans, while Cardinal Puff and Choo-Choo Juice (a nod to the town’s rail history) keep the hop-heads happy. They aren't just a one-trick pony, either.
They also lean heavily into "themed wines."
- Testament Malbec: Dry, medium body, basically like biting into a blackberry dipped in unsweetened chocolate.
- Redemption Chardonnay: Subtle mango and vanilla notes that don't hit you over the head with oak.
- Communio Cabernet Sauvignon: Heavy tannins and toasted notes for when you want something that lingers.
- Trinity Raspberry Merlot: Semi-sweet and smells like you just walked through a berry patch.
It’s rare to find a brewery that treats its wine list with the same respect as its grain bill. Usually, "brewery wine" is a dusty bottle of Pinot Grigio from a grocery store. Not here.
👉 See also: Why the Siege of Vienna 1683 Still Echoes in European History Today
The "Dreamsville" Experience
Dennison is a small town. Like, really small. But Holy Moley Brewing Co makes it feel big. They don’t have a full-scale kitchen yet, but they’ve mastered the food truck rotation. You’ll usually find something parked outside to soak up the IPAs.
The live music is where the church's architecture really shines. When a band like Tyrone’s Blue’s Sinsation kicks off, the sound fills those high rafters in a way a warehouse taproom just can't replicate. It’s family-friendly, too. You’ll see kids, dogs on the patio, and locals who have lived in the valley for seventy years all rubbing elbows.
The owner is often around, usually willing to chat about the latest brew or the quirks of maintaining a century-old church. It feels personal.
Why it Matters for Ohio Craft Beer
The craft scene is crowded. Every town has a "Railroad Street Brewing" or a "Main Street Ale House." Holy Moley Brewing Co stands out because it leans into the specific, weird history of Dennison. By preserving the church and referencing the "Dreamsville" legacy, they’ve created a sense of place.
✨ Don't miss: Why the Blue Jordan 13 Retro Still Dominates the Streets
It’s a bit of a trek if you’re coming from Columbus or Cleveland, but it’s worth the gas. You get to see how coal, rail, and faith shaped this corner of the state—and you get to do it with a pint of Choo-Choo Juice in your hand.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit
- Check the Calendar: They aren't open seven days a week. Typically, they run Thursday through Sunday. Friday and Saturday nights are the peak for live music.
- Plan the "Historical Loop": Start at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum (it's right there), then head to Holy Moley. If you have time, the Clarke Gable Museum in Cadiz is a short drive away.
- Check Facebook: Since they are a nano-brewery, the tap list changes fast. Their Facebook page is the most reliable way to see what's currently pouring and which food truck is scheduled.
- Bring the Crew: The church layout is actually great for groups. Unlike cramped bars, there's plenty of room to spread out without feeling like you're shouting over your neighbor.
Honestly, just go for the windows. Stay for the beer. It’s one of those rare spots that actually lives up to the "hidden gem" cliché.
Next Steps for Your Trip
If you're heading to Dennison this weekend, make sure to grab a flight of the "church-themed" wines alongside the beers. The Testament Malbec is a standout for red drinkers. Also, keep an eye on the food truck schedule; the local wood-fired pizza trucks that often stop by are the perfect pairing for their American IPAs.