10% of sales from new ‘Nickel Plate’ beer to support train preservation
Railroad fans and craft beer lovers will have a new way to support the historic train line running through Hamilton County while enjoying an adult beverage with an iconic name that carries a history of its own.
Nickel Plate Express (NPX), which operates train excursions between Noblesville and Atlanta, is partnering with Primeval Brewing, 960 Logan St., Suite 100, Noblesville, to introduce Nickel Plate Light, a train-themed refreshing light beer that’s perfect for summertime sipping.
“By partnering with Nickel Plate Express and using the Nickel Plate name, we’re able to tap into the rich history of the local railroad as well as the rich history of brewing in Indiana to create something truly special,” said Nathan Compton, who, along with Tim Palmer, are co-owners of Primeval.
During the 1890s, the company that owned the Nickel Plate Railroad contracted with C.L. Centlivre Brewing Company of Fort Wayne to create a beer that could be served in its dining cars. Nickel Plate Beer became a popular staple and was available until about the 1950s when the brewery was sold.
Primeval will hold a release party for Nickel Plate Light tonight at 7 p.m. at its location in downtown Noblesville. While supplies last, 10 percent of taproom sales from the beer will be donated to a railroad preservation fund that NPX uses to maintain its historic equipment.
NPX also will feature multiple Primeval beers for sampling and purchase during its Ales and Rails excursions on Saturday, Aug. 13. Tickets can be purchased at nickelplateexpress.com.
“Thanks to our partnership with Primeval, the Nickel Plate name is brewing once again and resurrecting a bit of Hoosier history,” NPX Director Emily Reynolds said. “Visiting Primeval’s taproom or riding the Nickel Plate Express are great ways to support local business and contribute to our preservation work so we can continue to operate and provide an enjoyable amenity right here in Hamilton County.”
About Nickel Plate Express
Founded in 2017 by the nonprofit organization Nickel Plate Heritage Railroad, the Nickel Plate Express operates historic trains from Hobbs Station at Forest Park Depot in Noblesville with excursions through Cicero, Arcadia and Atlanta, Ind., on 12.5 miles of track owned by the Hoosier Heritage Port Authority. For more information, visit nickelplateexpress.org.
About Primeval Brewing
Primeval Brewing opened its family-friendly taproom in 2019 in historic downtown Noblesville as the dream of award-winning brewers Nathan Compton and Tim Palmer. Primeval features European-style beers along with food, wine, liquor and live entertainment. For more information, visit primevalbrewing.com.