House of Brew

In 5,000 BC, beer was born.

The world’s oldest alcoholic drink and third most consumed beverage in the world, beer is a drink that brings people together and has become a part of many cultures around the world. There are currently more than 40 breweries in Texas, and it’s become tradition to kick back and grab a cold one. Some may do this over the weekend. Others may consume a beer sometimes after work. And then there are those who have solemnly sworn to drink infinite amounts of beer on every day that ends in a “y.”

Buzz summer intern Maddy Payne holds up some of the different types of beer can curtains pieces. Who knew there were this many different ways to use beer cans? (Photo: Karen Payne)

Probably the most well-known local beer drinker is John Martin Milkovisch.

Born to Austrian emigrants, Milkovisch grew up in Houston with a life–long love of beer. In 1940, Milkovisch married Mary I. Hite, and in 1942 the happy couple purchased what would later become the unconventional yet cultural landmark: The Beer Can House.

“I don’t consider this art. It’s just a pastime. But sometimes I lie awake at night, trying to figure out why I do it." - John Martin Milkovisch

The construction began in 1968 and over the next 20 years would take over the entire outside of the house using over 50,000 beer cans and other beer paraphernalia. Milkovisch began from the ground up, transforming his yard and driveway. When he was done with the yard, he started on the outside of the house, but he did so gradually. Every day while his wife, Mary, was at work, Milkovisch would add a small band of flattened beer cans around the bottom of the house. This continued until the entire house was concealed with beer cans. Milkovisch agreed with his wife that while he had the outside of the house, the inside was her area. His reasoning behind all this? He was tired of mowing the lawn and didn’t want to paint the outside of the house anymore.

The Beer Can House reflects Milkovisch’s spontaneous sense of creativity. (Photo: Maddy Payne)

Although Milkovisch never claimed to have any artistic talents, his creativity and determination are conveyed through The Beer Can House, a beloved landmark of the city and a representation of the city’s innovative attitude.

“They say every man should leave something to be remembered by. At least I accomplished that goal." - John Martin Milkovisch

The house is located near Memorial Park at 222 Malone Street. The fee to visit The Beer Can House is $5 and visitation hours over the summer are Weds-Sun, 12-5 p.m. After Labor Day, the days change to Sat. and Sun. only from 12-5 p.m. Prell Pickens and Kenneth Tobias, both docents at the museum, are very helpful in providing direction and information. Self guided tours as well as group tours are available. Go check out this iconic landmark or learn more about it here.