Gary Jones and Curtis Congleton, seemingly an unlikely duo, first crossed paths while volunteering at the First Christian Church in Versailles, cooking community dinners. What began as a shared passion for community service quickly evolved into an unexpected partnership that would transform their lives.

Over the course of a year, Gary and Curtis forged a strong friendship, and it was during one of their dinner nights that Curtis voiced a pressing question. He leaned in, sipping his beer, and said, "All the communities around us have their own breweries, and Versailles needs one too." Unbeknownst to Curtis, Gary had been secretly brewing beer at home, an art he had honed over the years.

This casual conversation ignited a spark in both of them. The idea of establishing a brewery in Versailles began to take shape. They embarked on a two-year quest to find the perfect location for what would become the Versailles Brewing Company. Their dream was realized on June 30, 2017, when they secured a suitable spot. It was a momentous occasion, and they worked tirelessly to bring their vision to life, culminating in the brewery's grand opening on December 29, 2017.

Curtis, a farmer with a 300-acre property known as Deuce Springs on Carpenter Pike, had a deep connection to the land, having been raised on a farm in Knox County, Kentucky. After graduating from university, he transitioned into farming, following his passion for agriculture. Gary, on the other hand, had a background in real estate and was committed to serving the community. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Woodford County Ministerial Association Soup Kitchen, ensuring that local residents had access to food. This partnership between God's Pantry, Kroger, and various local churches resulted in the distribution of thousands of meals each year.

The story of Versailles Brewing Company is intricately woven into the fabric of Woodford County. The beef used in their restaurant comes exclusively from Curtis's farm, supporting the local agricultural community. A lot of the veggies for the daily menu specials are sourced from Curtis's farm, making the brewery a true local gem. They've also introduced local brats, further promoting the regional culinary delights.

Their commitment to sustainability doesn't stop there. After the brewing process, the spent grain is repurposed, given to a local hog farmer, and the resulting meat is purchased back for the brewery's offerings.

In the heart of Versailles, Gary and Curtis have not only realized their dream of owning a brewery but have also become essential pillars of the community, connecting people through beer, food, and a shared love for their county. So, if you're ever in the area, come on over to Versailles Brewing Company for a taste of Woodford County, where every beer and steak tells a story of community and friendship.