Floyd and Molly Barela, both Colorado natives with mining roots, opened Golden Block Brewery in 2014. Prior to opening, Floyd was an active home-brewer for 20 years and part of many local home-brew clubs. He received his certificate from the Master Brewers Association program at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. After Molly suggested opening a brewery in Silverton, Colorado, Golden Block Brewery was born and remains the local neighborhood hangout on the "block".