The taps have run dry and the final call has been made at the storied Grand Rapids Brewing Company, with patrons now given a chance to own a piece of Michigan's brewing legacy. Following an announcement last month of its permanent closure, the downtown brewery is putting hundreds of its assets on the block in an online auction. The inventory ranges from brewing equipment and furniture to a diverse collection of decor, giving a nod to its deep-rooted history in the beer industry.

As reported by FOX 2 Detroit, the auction includes a myriad of items including fermenters and whiskey barrels, all starting at bids as low as $5. GRBC's closure came after a fire in February did considerable damage to the kitchen and HVAC system. The brewery originally planned to reopen, but, financial assessments and subsequent decisions poured cold water on what many hoped would be a triumphant comeback.

Fans of the brewery and those in the market for commercial-grade kitchen and brewing supplies are poised to find deals. A peek at the full list of over 320 items up for auction is available on the website Biddergy.com, with the event kicking off sharp at 8 a.m. Thursday, April 18. Bidders can also inspect the items in person on the day of the auction between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. at the brewery's Ionia Avenue location, a detail by WOODTV.

The Grand Rapids Brewing Company, which started as a coalition of six breweries in 1893 and later gained fame for its Silver Foam beer, was not only a beer institution but also a historic emblem of Grand Rapids' entrepreneurial spirit. Prohibition had ceased operations, but 2012 saw the resurrection of GRBC in downtown Grand Rapids, crafting a new chapter for the brand until its recent closure. This history is cataloged in the auction with items like tap handles and nostalgic wall art capturing the essence of the brewery, as shared by 13 ON YOUR SIDE.

Prospective buyers must mark their calendars for post-auction removals scheduled for the following Monday and Tuesday, ensuring swift clearance of the premises. With memories entrenched in each piece, the sale presents an opportunity for enthusiasts and entrepreneurs alike to savor a slice of local craft beer heritage, all while making room for the area's inevitable new ventures.