What started as a backyard hobby for Steve Murray has grown into one of Northwest Indiana’s most unique and welcoming community spaces. As co-founder of Burn 'Em Brewing, Murray has turned his passion for craft beer into something much bigger: a creative hub that brings people together through food, music, art, and local agriculture.
Raised between the shores of Lake Michigan and the quiet countryside of Rolling Prairie, Murray developed an early appreciation for both natural beauty and community spirit.
“I grew up going to the beach constantly. We have some of the best beach fronts here in Indiana; it can remind you of an ocean view with Lake Michigan being so large you can't see the other side,” Murray said.
His childhood included beach days, sailing with his grandfather, and time spent surrounded by cornfields and orchards, experiences that still influence him today.
Murray first discovered brewing through his family. He began homebrewing with his father and twin brother, Blake, and the hobby quickly became a shared passion. After studying sculpture at Indiana University, Murray returned home and, following his father’s unexpected passing in 2011, took over the family construction business. Through it all, he never let go of his creative drive.
Burn 'Em Brewing was founded in 2013 and initially focused on distribution. Over time, it evolved into a full-service restaurant and performance venue. For Murray, the brewery has always been more than a business. Instead, he wanted to create a place where people could gather, express themselves, and support one another.
“My brother and I took over the construction company, finished out the couple jobs we had left, and closed the business. We ended up keeping the building and turned that into our first location. My dad's full name was Hugh Burnham Murray, so we took his middle name, changed the spelling around, and made the whole brewery as a tribute to him,” Murray said.
The brewery’s origin story is deeply rooted in family, and that sense of legacy continues to shape its mission. Burn 'Em sources ingredients from local farms like Howe Farms and Tillman Farms to ensure that both the beer and food reflect the region’s agricultural richness.
The venue also features a dedicated event space, which has become a go-to spot for live music, comedy nights, and art shows. Punk bands, singer-songwriters, and local comedians have all found a home at Burn 'Em, where the focus is on giving artists an affordable and supportive platform. The team offers a stage to artists who are often passed over by other venues, so they can share their work with the community.
That same support extends to visual artists, whose work lines the brewery’s walls and labels. Murray’s background in sculpture gives him a personal appreciation for artistic expression, and he regularly hosts workshops and collaborates with local creatives to keep the community engaged.
Inside the business, Murray promotes a culture of respect and collaboration. He sees his employees as partners, not just staff, and says that approach comes directly from his father’s example.
“My father was one of the hardest working people I’ve ever known, but he was also one of the nicest and most caring people around. Some of his friends hang out at the brewery – one of his best friends since kindergarten is my godfather. He still comes around, and recently he told me he sees my dad in us. That’s been a good compliment to hear because I’ve always looked up to my dad,” Murray said.
When he’s not at the brewery, Murray enjoys time at his small farm, raising chickens and growing vegetables. It’s a peaceful contrast to the bustling energy of Burn 'Em, but the values are the same: sustainability, creativity, and community.
Looking ahead, Murray is focused on continuing to build a space that brings people together and uplifts local talent.