Member-only story

How Secret Stills and Fast Cars Made North Carolina the Moonshine Capital of the United States

Mason Powell

·16.1k Followers· Follow

Published in Tar Heel Lightnin : How Secret Stills And Fast Cars Made North Carolina The Moonshine Capital Of The World

7 min read

405 View Claps

57 Respond

Save

Listen

North Carolina has a long and storied history of moonshining, dating back to the days of Prohibition. During this time, the state was home to some of the most notorious moonshiners in the country, who used their skills to evade the law and make a living. In this article, we'll explore the history of moonshining in North Carolina, from its humble beginnings to its eventual decline. We'll also take a look at some of the most famous moonshiners in the state, and the impact that moonshining had on North Carolina's culture and economy.

The Early Days of Moonshining in North Carolina

The first moonshine stills in North Carolina were built in the late 1700s. At this time, moonshining was a relatively small-scale operation, and it was primarily used to produce alcohol for personal consumption. However, during the Civil War, moonshining became more widespread as soldiers on both sides of the conflict began to produce their own alcohol. After the war, many of these soldiers returned home and continued to moonshine, which helped to establish the industry in North Carolina.

Tar Heel Lightnin': How Secret Stills and Fast Cars Made North Carolina the Moonshine Capital of the World

by Daniel S. Pierce

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	32686 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	310 pages

Moonshining During Prohibition

Moonshining reached its peak during Prohibition, which was a period of time from 1920 to 1933 when the production and sale of alcohol was illegal in the United States. During this time, moonshining became a major industry in North Carolina. It is estimated that there were over 100,000 moonshiners operating in the state at the time.

Moonshiners during Prohibition used a variety of methods to evade the law. They often built their stills in remote locations, and they used fast cars to outrun the police. Moonshiners also developed a sophisticated system of communication and intelligence, which helped them to stay one step ahead of the law.

The Impact of Moonshining on North Carolina

Moonshining had a significant impact on North Carolina's culture and economy. The industry provided jobs for thousands of people, and it helped to boost the state's economy. Moonshining also played a role in the development of NASCAR. Many of the early NASCAR drivers were former moonshiners who used their skills to race cars.

Moonshining also had a negative impact on North Carolina. The industry was associated with violence and crime, and it contributed to the state's reputation as a lawless place. In addition, moonshining led to the destruction of forests and other natural resources.

The Decline of Moonshining

Moonshining declined in North Carolina after Prohibition was repealed in 1933. However, the industry never completely disappeared. There are still a few moonshiners operating in North Carolina today, and their product is still available for purchase.

Moonshining is a fascinating part of North Carolina's history. It is a story of rebellion, ingenuity, and survival. Moonshiners were often seen as outlaws, but they were also heroes to many people. They provided a valuable service to those who wanted to drink alcohol during Prohibition, and they helped to preserve a tradition that dates back centuries.

Tar Heel Lightnin': How Secret Stills and Fast Cars Made North Carolina the Moonshine Capital of the World

by Daniel S. Pierce

4.6 out of 5