In November 1995 Jim Cobbold (1925-2007) (#1845 in the tree) and his elder son, Michael came to Suffolk from California to tour their ancestral haunts. Needless to say the Cliff Brewery was on their route, not the least reason being that Jim’s great grandfather, Arthur Thomas Cobbold (1815-1898) (#138) was born here. Imagine their delight to find themselves as surprise guests at the first of a number of parties to celebrate 250 years of brewing at The Cliff.
Our picture shows, left to right, Brian Cowie (joint MD), Michael and Jim at the launch of Cobbold’s 250 Special, a 6% ale, brewed specially to mark the anniversary. Traditionally, new brews and year beers are ‘named’ by a local personality and on this occasion it was Jamie Cann the MP for Ipswich. Because of the importance of the brewery to the town it served, the coat of arms of the Borough of Ipswich is prominent on the label flanked by the dates 1746 – 1996 (illustrated).
Regular visitors to this site will know that Jim Cobbold was a significant donor to the Trust and that his family has continued his tradition. The most recent gift from Michael has been the first bottle (albeit empty now!) of Cobbold’s 250 Special Ale saved from that party, signed by Jamie Cann, Brian Cowie and Bob Walsh, and, importantly, Chris Gregson the Head Brewer. A little piece of history we are right to cherish.
Anthony Cobbold
