Born in Etton. Founded Carling Brewery after emigrating to Canada. Born:June 1, 1797 Died: February 17, 1880

Thomas Carling, the founder of the Carling Brewing Empire, was born in Etton in 1797. Thomas's father was a local farmer who brewed his own beer. In 1818, Thomas, the youngest of five children, left to seek his fortune in Canada, where he made the Yorkshire inspired beer for a large garrison of British Troops, who were entitled to six pints a day. They persuaded him to start brewing commercially in 1840. Under the stewardship of Thomas Carling’s sons the business continued to prosper and, in 1878, they moved to a new, purpose-built brewery costing a quarter-of-a-million dollars. Later on new products were developed (for example, Carling Black Label was first brewed in Canada in 1926) and the Carling brand went on to become famous throughout the world.

Taken from Etton Parish Council website.

A plaque commemorating William Carling can be found on the wall of Etton Village Hall. It was installed in 2000 at a special ceremony when six members of the Carling family from Canada attended.

Useful webistes:

Summary of Thomas's life including photos: https://brookstonbeerbulletin.com/historic-beer-birthday-thomas-carling/

Biography and family tree details on the Find a Grave site: https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/140402578/thomas-carling