Our dream was to open a brewery in a Church named Little Blessings. The name bore dual meaning, capturing our often mispronounced surname and the essence of humble beginnings. We believed this dream was merely a fantasy.
When news of the imminent sale of the Laura Baptist Church reached us, we were staying at the caravan park across the road. It was as if these events were part of a grand design.
We instantly fell in love with the building and decided it was time to action our dream of crafting exceptional craft beers and gins. When we signed the contract, we received surprising news—that a Blesing had been among the founding members in 1875.
Research led us to Marie Elizabeth Walter (nee Blesing), the last surviving founding member of the very church that had captured our hearts. We discovered she was the daughter of the first Blesing to migrate to Australia in 1851 and Craig's 2x great-aunt.
The church was constructed in 1875 by Johanna Ernestine and her husband Heinrich Wilhelm Alexander Walter, and Marie married their son!
Further family research stunned us when we learned that Johanna Ernestine Walter (nee Schrapel), memorialized in one of the stained glass windows, had a great niece that married Craig’s great grandfather.
Astounded by the multiple connections around us, we know we are destined to be here in the Southern Flinders Ranges—to preserve the church's legacy and breathe life back into its limestone walls.
With gratitude, we are fully aware of the honor bestowed upon us by the Baptist Community of Laura.
Little Blessings Brewing is more than just a brewery. It’s a living story—of heritage, connection, and purpose. A place where past and present meet over a good brew, and where we’re proud to carry the spirit of family and community forward.
We are truly 'blessed' to be part of its history.
Craig and Cat Blesing
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