In Fredericksburg, a story of passion, perseverance, and pints unfolds at Harry’s Alehouse. What began as a bartending job in 2016 has transformed into a family legacy for Trevor Sherwin, who, alongside his wife Lacy, now owns Harry’s Downtown. Their journey reflects the American dream of entrepreneurship, community investment, and the rewards that come from pouring your heart into a business you truly believe in.
More Than a Restaurant: The Sherwin Family Story
Trevor and Lacy’s story isn’t just about restaurant ownership—it’s about building relationships, creating memorable experiences, and establishing deep roots in the Fredericksburg community they call home. Their path from employees to owners offers an inspiring glimpse into how dedication and a genuine love for hospitality can transform careers and lives while enhancing the local dining scene.
From Bartender to Owner: Trevor Sherwin’s Journey With Harry’s Alehouse
Trevor’s journey with Harry’s Alehouse began in October 2016, when he joined as a bartender just before the original location opened its doors. His passion for the brand was immediate and intense, quickly recognizing the potential of what Harry’s could become in the Fredericksburg community.
This initial enthusiasm wasn’t just about having a job—it was about finding a place where his talents and vision could flourish, leading him to seek greater responsibility within the growing business.
Building Community, One Pint at a Time
Within two years, Trevor’s dedication and work ethic earned him the position of General Manager, allowing him to shape the guest experience more directly. When the challenges of COVID hit the restaurant industry, many establishments struggled to survive, but Trevor’s commitment only deepened, accepting an invitation to become a Managing Partner.
This period of adversity became a stepping stone, ultimately leading to the team’s decision to expand with a second location in Downtown Fredericksburg, where Trevor took on a leadership role before purchasing full ownership in March 2025. Throughout this remarkable progression, his wife Lacy has been an essential partner, balancing family responsibilities with supporting the restaurant’s operations.
Rooted in Fredericksburg: A Local Legacy in the Making
What sets Trevor apart in the competitive restaurant landscape is his genuine passion for craft beverages and the connections they create. Over the years in the industry, he has cultivated strong relationships throughout the beer world, developing an expertise that enhances Harry’s reputation as a destination for beer enthusiasts.
This knowledge extends to whiskey and mixology, where Trevor’s growing passion translates into unique offerings and special events that give Harry’s its distinctive character in the local dining scene.
Trevor approaches restaurant management with a philosophy that recognizes every role as essential. He’s just as comfortable hosting private whiskey tastings as he is washing dishes when needed, embodying the belief that exceptional hospitality requires a team unified in their commitment to guest satisfaction.
After fifteen years in the industry, Trevor has distilled his approach down to a simple truth: every guest and every interaction matters. This philosophy guides Harry’s operations from the moment customers enter until they leave, ensuring that the food, beverages, and service create memorable experiences that keep people coming back to both Harry’s locations.
The Farmette Life: How Family and Freshness Shape Harry’s Vision
Behind the scenes of their business success, Trevor and Lacy have created a life that beautifully balances their professional and personal passions.
While the restaurant demands significant attention, they’ve built what they lovingly call their “little farmette,” where family time involves chasing chickens and embracing a connection to the land that complements their commitment to fresh, quality ingredients at Harry’s. Their children, Summit and Harbor, are growing up with a front-row seat to entrepreneurship and community engagement.
The Sherwins’ commitment extends beyond business to embrace the broader Fredericksburg community they cherish. When not at the restaurant, they prioritize sharing their love of craft beverages with friends, investing time in their children’s development, and finding ways to give back to the community that has supported their journey.
This holistic approach to life and business demonstrates why Harry’s has become more than just a restaurant—it’s a reflection of a family’s values and their dedication to creating spaces where people can gather, connect, and enjoy exceptional food and drink in the city they proudly call home.
