Hillsborough Seniors Explore Local History and Craft Spirits at Bellemara Distillery

Hillsborough’s rich past and vibrant present came together on July 29, when local seniors gathered at Bellemara Distillery for an evening that blended township history, community partnership, and good company.

The event, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Hillsborough, welcomed guests into Bellemara’s inviting tasting room, where warm wood finishes and wide windows offered a view straight onto the distillery floor. From there, attendees moved upstairs to the second‑floor lounge, a bright space with panoramic views of the operation below — the perfect setting for an evening of storytelling and discovery.

Mayor Catherine Payne introduced local historian Gregory Gillette, whose presentation on Hillsborough’s bootlegging and Prohibition era captivated the room. Gillette’s stories brought to life a colorful chapter of the township’s past, sparking lively conversation and plenty of nostalgia among attendees.

The history lesson flowed seamlessly into a behind‑the‑scenes tour led by Bellemara co‑founder and head distiller Camden Winkelstein. Guests learned about the craft behind Bellemara’s single malt spirits, gaining an insider’s look at one of Hillsborough’s standout small businesses and the meticulous process that defines their work.

The evening was made possible through a Rotary Club donation to the township’s Social Services Department, supporting programs that enrich the lives of local seniors. The event also reflects the mission of the Senior Active Living Initiative (S.A.L.I.), which expands educational, social, and wellness opportunities for residents ages 60 and older.

By pairing local history with a modern Hillsborough business, the gathering offered seniors a memorable experience — one that celebrated community, connection, and the stories that make Hillsborough unique.

Photo: Hillsborough Township social media.

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