American beer drinkers lament demise of iconic brand after 177 years as many cite 'mistake'

A beer once synonymous with American households is officially reaching the end of the line, with the final batch of Schlitz set to roll out on May 23 after 177 years of brewing — and reactions online have ranged from sadness and derision to deep disappointment. 

Founded in 1849, Schlitz became one of America's dominant beer brands during the 20th century, earning the slogan "the beer that made Milwaukee famous."

Its popularity surged after the Great Chicago Fire crippled breweries in Chicago in 1871...