Charles Mallen
Charles Edward Mallen | |
|---|---|
| Born | Error: Invalid birth date for calculating age London, England |
| Died | October 26, 1909 (aged 89) |
| Occupation(s) | Carpenter, brewer |
| Known for | Early brewing sector in South Australia |
Charles Edward Mallen (23 December 1819 – 26 October 1909) was a skilled carpenter and brewer who played a significant role in shaping the early brewing sector in South Australia.
History
Originally from London, Mallen trained as an apprentice with Edwards, a cabinetmaking firm serving the Royal Family, where his relatives were also employed. In 1854, he relocated to South Australia and began crafting decorative woodwork for local establishments such as the Wesleyan Church and Faulding's chemist shop. After purchasing property in Adelaide and Clapham, he found employment with Mellor Brothers, specialists in agricultural machinery, and subsequently undertook repair work on equipment at W. H. Clark's brewery.
When Clark transitioned to West End Brewery (which John Haimes later acquired), Mallen assisted with the assembly of brewing equipment and installation of machinery. Upon W. K. Simms taking over the brewery, Mallen became a permanent member of the team. Under the management of Simms & Chapman, he was promoted to brewer and manager.
In 1874, Mallen was assigned to identify a location for expansion within New South Wales. He founded the "Adelaide Brewery" in Waverley near Sydney, commencing production in December of that year and expanding the cellar facilities by 1875. After being refused partnership status, he returned to Adelaide and constructed a modest "Waverley Brewery" on West Terrace late in 1875. Simms purchased this establishment in 1876 and transformed it into the Waverley Vinegar Works.
Subsequently, Mallen collaborated with John Haimes to establish another "Waverley Brewery" near Brownhill Creek in Lower Mitcham. Launched in 1878 as Haimes, Mallen & Co., this venture included several family members. The brewery remained operational until the 1930s, with Charles Williams overseeing management from approximately 1921 until his retirement in 1933.
Mallen & Co. Ltd. diversified into the hospitality industry by owning thirteen hotels scattered throughout Adelaide suburbs including Norwood, Port Adelaide, Glenelg, and Unley. Their holdings featured notable establishments such as the Alma Hotel (Norwood), Britannia Hotel (Port Adelaide), and Edinburgh Hotel (Mitcham).
Around 1938, they established the Springfield Brewery on their Mitcham property, which experienced substantial growth by 1941. Nevertheless, by 1954 the company was forced into liquidation.
The Waverley "Adelaide Brewery" located in New South Wales had ceased its operations by 1880 and underwent subdivision by 1901.
Other activities
Charles was actively involved in horse and greyhound racing, securing four Waterloo Cup victories without engaging in wagering on any events. He also bred successful racehorses including Lancelot and Modjeska.
Family
On 29 June 1840 in London, Charles married Maria Matilda Sandwell. Together they had nine children.