National Bootlegger’s Day, celebrated on January 17th, pays homage to the audacious spirits of the Prohibition era, a time when bootleggers and moonshiners symbolized a rebellious stance against the liquor ban in the United States.
Established in 2015 by Infinium Spirits, this day also commemorates the birth of Templeton Rye, a whiskey that not only quenched the thirst of many during Prohibition but also became a favorite of the infamous gangster, Al Capone.
The Roots of Bootlegging
1880s: The Birth of the Bootlegger The term “bootlegger” originated in the Midwest in the 1880s. It referred to individuals who concealed flasks of liquor in their boots to illicitly trade with Native Americans.
1920: Prohibition Ignites Illegal Liquor Trade The 18th Amendment, enacted in 1920, prohibited the sale, production, and transportation of alcohol in the United States.
Contrary to its intent, Prohibition sparked an underground world of illicit alcohol production and distribution. Bootleggers, moonshiners, and rum-runners became the era’s folk heroes.
Templeton Rye: A Prohibition Legend In the small town of Templeton, Iowa, local farmers distilled Templeton Rye, an illicit whiskey. Its superior quality made it a staple in speakeasies across major cities like Chicago and Kansas City.
The legend of Templeton Rye lives on, with Infinium Spirits reviving its production using a Prohibition-era recipe.
National Bootlegger’s Day Celebrations
1. Savoring Templeton Rye Whiskey A central aspect of National Bootlegger’s Day is enjoying Templeton Rye Whiskey. Available in various ages and flavors, including Barrel Strength and Oloroso Sherry Cask, this whiskey symbolizes the enduring spirit of the Prohibition rebels.
2. Prohibition-Era Music The 1920s and 1930s were marked by vibrant music that defied norms. Celebrating with a playlist of classics like Louis Armstrong’s “West End Blues” or Jimmie Rodgers’ “In the Jailhouse Now” captures the essence of the era.
3. Hosting a Themed Party Embody the spirit of the 1920s by throwing a National Bootlegger’s Day party. Guests can dress as Prohibition-era figures, enjoying whiskeys and period-appropriate music to relive the daring days of bootlegging.
4. Gifting Whiskey What better way to honor this day than by sharing a bottle of fine whiskey? Gifting whiskey embodies the celebration of freedom and camaraderie that National Bootlegger’s Day stands for.
The Evolution of Bootlegging and Its Impact
From Liquor to Media: The Expansion of Bootlegging Initially centered around illegal alcohol, the concept of bootlegging has expanded to include the illicit production and distribution of various media forms.
While alcohol bootlegging has ceased in the U.S., the term is still relevant in the context of unauthorized media distribution.
National Bootlegger’s Day: A Historical Perspective
To understand the significance of National Bootlegger’s Day, a brief historical timeline provides context:
- 7000 BC: Early evidence of humans brewing alcohol from fermented fruits.
- 1494 AD: Scotland issues the first patent for distilling spirits.
- 1920: Prohibition starts in the U.S., laying the groundwork for bootleggers.
- 1933: Prohibition ends with the 21st Amendment, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
- 2015: The inaugural celebration of National Bootlegger’s Day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Bootlegger? A bootlegger is someone who illegally manufactures or sells alcohol or other products.
2. Origins of the Term ‘Bootlegger’ The term traces back to the 1880s in the Midwest, where individuals hid flasks in their boots during illicit alcohol trades.
3. Johnny Bootlegger: A Modern Take Johnny Bootlegger is a brand of 24-proof spirit beverages, available in various flavors, exemplifying the enduring legacy of bootleg culture.
4. Bootlegging Methods During Prohibition, alcohol was often made from fermenting a mash of corn sugar, beets, or potato peels.
5. Is Bootlegging Still Practiced? While alcohol bootlegging is no longer necessary in the U.S., the term now applies to the illegal sale of media.
Celebrate National Bootleggers Day!
National Bootlegger’s Day is more than just a celebration of a rebellious era in American history. It is a reminder of the indomitable human spirit that thrives in the face of restrictions.
It’s a day to reminisce, to enjoy the freedoms won, and to appreciate the rich cultural history that shaped modern America. This day serves as a toast to those who dared to defy, and in doing so, left an indelible mark on history.
Check out more drinkies’ days of celebration on our drinking days of the year calendar.
