Georgetown is now known for its beer production because of its history of fertile soil. The Duwamish river has since changed directions leaving downtown Georgetown about a half of mile from the river but it still remains a major producer of beer to this day. One of the largest breweries in the country was founded in Georgetown know as the Georgetown Brewing and Malting Company which is a producer of Rainer Beer. It was Georgetown’s largest employer until prohibition when alcohol was outlawed within one mile of the city. This meant that Georgetown could not become a part of the city of Seattle until January 8, 1904.