The Burke Mineral Water Company: A Refreshing Chapter in Brantford’s History
The Burke Mineral Water Company, founded by Austin E. Burke in 1903, was a cornerstone of Brantford’s industrial scene. Burke purchased the R. S. Dunlop Mineral Water Company and rebranded it, establishing the business at 17-21 Colborne Street. Over nearly three decades, the company gained a reputation for producing high-quality beverages, including Brant Mineral Water, Burke’s Old English-Brewed Ginger-Ale, and Whistle Soda, which were delivered within a 30-mile radius of Brantford. Burke demonstrated a commitment to modernization early on, equipping the factory with state-of-the-art machinery. Automatic washing systems ensured bottles were cleaned to the highest sanitary standards, while automated bottling machinery improved efficiency and consistency. The use of premium ingredients, such as Jamaican ginger for ginger ale and ginger beer, set the company apart from competitors. Products like loganberry soda, introduced to the region by Burke, added unique flavours that attracted a loyal customer base. The company’s success was due in part to its efficient distribution system. A fleet of trucks delivered products to homes and businesses within the surrounding 30-mile radius, ensuring timely service and widespread availability. Burke’s products stood out during the early 20th-century boom in carbonated beverages, a trend fueled by innovations in bottling and changing consumer habits. Securing the regional agency for Whistle Soda, a popular American brand, further broadened its market reach and added variety to its offerings.
Austin Burke, a native of Norfolk County, brought decades of experience to the business, having been involved in the industry since 1901. His hands-on leadership and focus on quality drove the company’s growth and established it as a trusted name in the local beverage market. Though he retired briefly, Burke returned to the business, demonstrating his dedication to its success. Despite its achievements, the company ceased operations in 1932, reflecting changing economic conditions. Austin Burke passed away in October 1933, marking the end of an era for a business that had become a significant part of Brantford’s community and economy.
The Burke Mineral Water Company is remembered for its contributions to Brantford’s industrial history and its commitment to quality. Its beverages, known for their taste and consistency, left a mark on the local market. The company’s legacy lives on as a reminder of the entrepreneurial spirit that shaped Brantford’s economy in the early 20th century.
References
https://history-api.brantfordlibrary.ca/Document/View/c35a2046-4306-441e-ab2f-3fade46ce2f3
Brantford Expositor. (1927). Brantford Expositor, Semi-Centennial Edition, 1877-1927 (Commemorative Newspapers). Brantford. Public Domain.
Brantford Expositor. (1909, October). Greater Brantford Number. Brantford, Ontario. Public Domain.