Van Den Bossche brewery

On Sint-Lievensplein in Sint-Lievens-Esse, Van Den Bossche brewery has brewed within the village itself since 1897. Founded by Arthur Van Den Bossche beside the family farm, it grew into a distinctly local, multigenerational brewery whose identity remains tied to Herzele. Its best-known traditions include Buffalo and the Pater Lieven, Livinus and Lamoral beers, while the brewery’s story is also one of continuity: the same family has carried it through more than a century of Belgian brewing change. A brewery rooted in the village square Arthur Van Den Bossche established the brewery in 1897 on the present Sint-Lievensplein, building it on land connected with the family farm. The site stands beside the church in the centre of Sint-Lievens-Esse, and both the village core and brewery are listed as protected heritage. Its setting is therefore more than an address: the brewery is part of the historic fabric of the village it serves. Family stewardship across generations After Arthur died in 1925, his wife and sons Willy and Marc continued developing the business. Ignace Van Den Bossche, representing the third generation, joined as a partner in 1975 and became manager in 1981, when the company was modernised. Since 2015, the fourth generation has also been active, preserving the brewery’s family character while maintaining production in Herzele. From village beers to a recognised range Van Den Bossche is associated with Buffalo as well as Pater Lieven, Livinus and Lamoral. Earlier production also included pilsners and export beers; later descriptions identify the brewery especially with top-fermented beers. The range reflects a brewery that retained its local base while developing a broader portfolio of Belgian speciality beers. A village-square brewery whose enduring character comes from place, family continuity and a recognisably East Flemish range. Sint-Lievens-Esse, Herzele, East Flanders, Belgium 1897 1897: Arthur Van Den Bossche establishes the brewery on Sint-Lievensplein in Sint-Lievens-Esse. 1925: After Arthur’s death, his wife and sons Willy and Marc continue expanding the brewery. 1975: Ignace Van Den Bossche, the third generation, joins as a partner. 1981: Ignace becomes manager as the brewery enters a period of modernisation. 2015: The fourth generation becomes active in the brewery.