By Shannon Maria Jones

The pictures of five remarkable men overlook the bar at Five Saints Distilling in Norristown.  When owner and founder John Robert George needed to pick a name for his new passion project, paying tribute to the five men that contributed to his success was a logical decision.

“I was not the easiest child to raise, so they must have been saints to put up with me,” John explains.

Five Saints Distilling is located in the former Humane Fire Company building, originally built in 1888, at 129 East Main Street in Norristown.  The charm and history of this imposing, three story local landmark can be seen in every inch of Five Saints.

The bar and tasting room on the first floor greets the neighborhood when 4pm hits and the two giant doors are opened.  The walls of the bar are full of artifacts and memorabilia chronicling 161 years of Humane’s service to the community.

“When we expand to the second and third floors, we’re really going to have the opportunity to show off some unique pieces,” says John.  “The second floor will be a full service bar and restaurant.  The third floor, with its high ceilings, copious windows and sweeping views of the area will be the premier event space in the region.”

John studied the art of distilling at the prestigious Moonshine University in Louisville, KY.  His skills are palpable when you taste the smoothness of his vodka and the complexities of the white whiskey.

Currently they are the only two spirits offered by Five Saints, but a gin is in their immediate future, with other products on the way.

“We’re committed to Norristown and its revitalization.  We really feel drawn here, and our bar manager Ben even returned from Colorado to his hometown to help us grow.  We are in this for the long haul, and we look forward to deepening our relationship with the community,” beams an enthusiastic John.

Five Saints at 129 East Main Street in Norristown is open Wednesday – Thursday from 5pm – 10pm, Friday 4pm – 11pm, Saturday 12pm – 11pm, and Sunday 1pm-7pm. They’re available for private and corporate events, and Friday/Saturday nights feature live music.