The Story Behind “Take a Chance”

A tribute to William D. Milward, Sr.

Just north of Boston, there lived a man whose legacy would stretch across four generations. William D. Milward Sr., affectionately known as Dad, Grampy, or Bill, was more than just a man; he was the patriarch of a family whose roots were firmly embedded in the refrigeration pipefitting trade.

Bill was a seasoned refrigeration mechanic, a title he proudly carried while being a member of the Pipe Fitter's Local #537 of Boston, Refrigeration Division. His career spanned decades, a testament to his dedication and expertise. In 1983, after years of hard work, Bill hung up his tools and retired. Little did he know that his retirement marked not just the end of an era for him, but the beginning of a legacy that would shape the Milward family for generations to come.

What set Bill apart was not just his technical skill but his desire to pass on the secrets of the trade to his kids. A second-generation refrigeration mechanic himself, he saw the potential for a family tradition that would transcend time. Bill managed to lure his sons and a few fortunate sons-in-law into the profession and the union. Little did they know that they were not just learning a trade; they were becoming part of a legacy.

As the years rolled by, the Milward family continued to thrive in the refrigeration business. The torch passed seamlessly from father to son, creating a lineage of skilled craftsmen, each with the knowledge that Bill Sr. had imparted. The profession became a glue that bound the family together, a shared passion that transcended the ordinary.

Fast forward to the present day, two of Bill Sr.'s descendants, Tom (grandson) and Bill (son), have taken the family tradition to unforeseen realms. They are not just refrigeration mechanics; they are the proud owners of Modest Roots Brewing, a dream that would not have materialized without the foundation laid by Bill Sr.

Take a Chance stands as a tribute to Bill Sr. who paved the way for his family to pursue their dreams. Tom and Bill, having imbibed the essence of their grandfather/father's teachings, now craft not just refrigeration systems but a community hub where people gather to savor life's moments.

In every glass raised, the spirit of Bill Sr. lives on. Take a Chance is more than just a beer; it's a tribute to a man who believed in taking a chance. In honoring him, we continue to raise the bar, celebrating the roots that run deep and the dreams that reach high.