The Somers Point Brewing Company is introducing a new limited edition craft release: 11-Minute Fuse, a bourbon barrel–aged Imperial Stout created to honor America’s great naval hero and Somers Point’s own Master Commandant Richard Somers.
11-Minute Fuse: Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout — 10% ABV
Brewed as a tribute to Richard Somers—the naval war hero and favorite son of Somers Point— this imperial stout embodies his legacy of courage and sacrifice. Crafted with a blend of specialty malts for richness and depth, the beer matured for six months in freshly emptied bourbon barrels.
The result is a bold, full-bodied stout with layers of dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and dried stone fruit, complemented by warm notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle caramel from the barrel. Decadent, complex, and reverent, 11-Minute Fuse is a toast to a storied life and the history that shaped our community.
The bottle label will feature artwork depicting Richard Somers, along with a QR code linking to additional historical information about the naval hero. During the official unveiling, Brew Master Adam Curnow will speak about the craftsmanship behind the stout, while local historian and President of the Somers Point Historical Society Kirk Gerety will share insights into the life and legacy of Richard Somers.
About Richard Somers
Richard Somers was born in Somers Point in 1778, the great-grandson of John Somers, the area’s original settler. He received his warrant as a midshipman in the United States Navy in 1798 and rose to the rank of Master Commandant, serving during the war between the United States and Tripoli from serving during the war between the United States and Tripoli in early 1800’s.
In 1804, Master Commandant Somers lost his life aboard the Intrepid during a daring nighttime mission in Tripoli Harbor. Under the command of Commodore Edward Preble during the First Barbary War, Somers volunteered to lead the “Inferno” attack—an effort to break the blockade of the Barbary pirates by sailing an explosives-laden ship directly into enemy lines.
The Intrepid was packed with powder, shells, and an 11-minute fuse meant to give the volunteer crew time to escape after ignition. On September 4, 1804, Somers and his thirteen-man crew sailed into Tripoli Harbor under cover of darkness. Moments later, an enormous explosion lit the sky—far earlier than expected. The true cause remains unknown: whether the ship was fired upon, whether the fuse ignited prematurely, or whether Somers and his men chose to detonate the ship rather than be captured. What is known is that all aboard sacrificed their lives in service to their country.
Somers and his crew are buried in the Old Protestant Cemetery in Tripoli, Libya. His heroism has been honored with multiple memorials, including seven U.S. Navy ships named USS Somers and a monument at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
About Somers Point Brewing Company
Founded in 2017, Somers Point Brewing Company (SoPo) is a small-town independent craft brewery with a big heart—and even bigger flavor. Every beer is brewed from scratch using premium ingredients to ensure what’s poured into your glass is fresh, distinctive, and full of character. Visitors to the taproom are met with a warm welcome, a knowledgeable team, and a passion for sharing the craft of great beer. Whether you’re local or just passing through, SoPo looks forward to raising a glass with you.
About the Somers Point Historical Society
Established in 1987, the Somers Point Historical Society was founded by community members dedicated to preserving the historic buildings and heritage of Somers Point. Their advocacy helped protect Old City Hall from demolition, resulting in its rebirth as the Atlantic County Library/Somers Point Branch. The Society also secured National Historic Recognition for the Bay Front Historic District and continues to support its preservation.
After years of collecting artifacts, photographs, and records, the Society achieved its long-term goal in 2004 by opening the Somers Point Historical Museum—housed in a rehabilitated 1886 former church and public library. The museum is staffed by volunteers and dedicated to preserving and sharing the town’s rich history.
Event Details:
Unveiling of The 11-minute Fuse Stout
Date: Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: The Somers Point Brewing Company
705 West New York Avenue
Somers Point, New Jersey 08244
