Barn Door Brewing

In 1887, the Mandel Family immigrated to Sherwood, Oregon from Bremen, Germany and made their homestead on 22 acres of land.

During the prohibition days, they constructed a hop dryer down in the swale of their property- it was hidden from view, so the family brewed beer as well as other various prohibited beverages. In the late 1920’s the hop dryer was deconstructed, and the wood was used to help build their barn.

The barn was used for dairy cows as well as storing farm equipment and hay that was needed. In 1954 the Mandels moved their cows down the street, but the barn continued to be used for hay and equipment storage.

The Mandel’s added their fourth generation grandchildren in 1993. Filled with new life the barn was used for parties, games and sleepovers. Located right off Elwert Rd, it also became an iconic location for photographers in the area.

As the modern world grew and developed the need for small local farmers dwindled. By 2007 the Mandel family began retiring from their farm life, but Marvin Mandel was determined to keep his heritage. He followed his grandparents footsteps and returned to home brewing beer for family and friends.

In 2017, with heavy hearts, the Mandel family sold their property and deconstructed the barn that once held so much life. Full of pride for his history and hope of redemption, Marvin Mandel became the head brewer for Deception Brewing in 2018, and found this venture both fulfilling and redemptive. It all came full circle.