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St. Charles, Illinois

COMING AUGUST 2026

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For the 5th year of the annual STC Six, the breweries are going to be shining a light on the rich Belgian history we have here in St. Charles. To honor this, participating breweries will take on the challenge of crafting unique Belgian-style beers and going head-to-head in a brewing competition.

This year, $1 from every pint sold will go to support the St. Charles History Museum and their mission to collect, preserve, and present St. Charles' history.

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Vote For Your Favorite

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Throughout the month of August, the brewery that receives the most votes on their Belgian Beer will be crowned champion. The winning brewery will be announced at Pollyanna Brewing & Distilling's Brews & Blues festival on August 29th.

Vote Now (Coming Soon)

Your Passport

DON'T MISS A STOP

Ensure you visit every stop by printing out your very own STC Six Passport. These can also be picked up at the St. Charles History Museum and Breweries.

Get Passport (Coming Soon)

Win!

Get every stamp and win a koozie at the STC History Museum!

A signature or initials from the bartender/staff is accepted.

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COMING AUGUST 1ST

The St. Charles History Museum will open a temporary exhibit focused on St. Charles' Belgian history. The exhibit will explore the people, traditions, and impact of the city's Belgian community. Learn more by visiting the Museum today!

Learn More (Coming Soon)
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Belgian History

IN ST. CHARLES

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The Belgian Population in St. Charles has a storied legacy dating back to the turn of the 20th century. With ample farmland and labor opportunities available, many Belgians settled in towns and cities around the midwestern United States. The Belgian community in St. Charles arrived after a fire destroyed the original Moline Malleable Iron Company in Moline, Illinois. 

 

In 1892, Moline Malleable rebuilt their facilities off of Dean Street, and sponsored Belgian immigrants to come work in St. Charles. The resulting influx of residents led to a large scale housing development being constructed, commonly referred to as “Belgian (or Belgium) Town.”  Over 100 residents made up the tight-knit community, and many shops in this part of town operated with Dutch interpreters. The community even established a charitable club called the Belgian-American Sick Society to assist any who fell behind on finances, or who were ill. Soon, St. Charles became a melting pot of old world and new world traditions, including:  pigeon racing, rolle bolle, and american football.

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