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Henry and The Hops of Time by Ric Rhodes is a tender, true-to-life story chronicling the journey of Henry Hahn—a coal miner’s son, soldier, rail worker, and home brewer—whose life unfolds through love, labor, and loss in small-town West Virginia. From the trenches of World War I to the warmth of his basement brewery, Henry’s story captures the grit of survival and the quiet triumphs of an ordinary man who built an extraordinary legacy through family, faith, and craft. His devoted wife Elizabeth, their children, and even a loyal rabbit named Bunny Buck shape a life steeped in tradition, humor, and the scent of hops. Through every hardship, Henry holds onto one truth: that the measure of a man is not found in what he owns or achieves, but in the love he leaves behind.
This is more than a story about brewing beer—it’s a story about brewing life itself. Henry and The Hops of Time reminds us that even the simplest moments—a shared meal, a saved batch of beer, a rabbit’s thump in a quiet cellar—can echo through generations. It’s a heartfelt tribute to family, resilience, and the timeless rhythm of love that endures long after the last toast is raised.
“Just as Henry preserved his family’s legacy through stories and traditions, your words help continue that beautiful human practice of connecting across generations.”
In the cool, brick-lined basement of his home, Henry practiced an art that was more than hobby. It was a ritual. A sacrament of patience and care.
His “Hahn’s Hopshine” was intense, smooth, and just bitter enough to keep you honest. It marked every family occasion—birthdays, weddings, and even funerals.
The beer, like Henry’s love for his family, was something he crafted with unwavering devotion. It is a testament to the idea that the most enduring legacies are not just remembered; they are felt, shared, and passed down.
Henry sourced the finest malted barley, ensuring each batch had the perfect foundation.
Precise temperatures and timing to extract the perfect flavors from the hops.
With Bunny Buck as assistant brewmaster, every batch met the highest standards.
Weeks of careful monitoring as yeast worked its magic in the cool basement.
Ric Rhodes is a storyteller preserving his family’s legacy. Henry and The Hops of Time weaves together photos, letters, and memories into a heartfelt tribute, ensuring future generations find pride and strength in their roots. It embodies his family’s creed: Familie ist alles Family is Everything.
Copyright © 2025 Ric Rhodes. All rights reserved.
