Ninety-one years ago, The Volstead Act was defeated and with that defeat, the era known as Prohibition came to a formal end. If you enjoy a cocktail now and again at any of Northport or East Northport’s legendary bars, you can thank the determined bootleggers, rum-runners and owners of the Roaring Twenties speakeasies for that pleasure.
Prior to the Prohibition era, the blending of liquor with fruity concoctions was not unheard of; however, it was during Prohibition that this practice flourished as a method for concealing both the appearance and taste of illegally brewed spirits, often called “bathtub gin”. The delicious cocktails, served in deceptively innocent teacups, were further hidden from view as patrons enjoyed their drinks. Today’s creative cocktail menus offer a delightful nod to that bygone era.
Prohibition In Northport & East Northport
Was bucolic Northport and East Northport spared the bootlegging scandal? No.
With its many hotels, seaside locations along the Long Island Sound aka, Rum Row and seasonal guests, raids occurred in the area between the years 1921 and 1933. Private homes with their stills along Vernon Valley Road, Main Street hotels, pharmacies, gas stations, and even the Pavilion at Crab Meadow Beach were not-so-secret locations to buy liquor. Residents who were determined to remain Wet, had their neighborhood haunts. Many residents who were determined to follow the law and stay Dry were often frustrated as the state had limited resources to earnestly enforce the Volstead Act
Spanning thirteen long years, the era tested the resilience of our grandparents, who not only survived but also lived to recount captivating tales of clandestine bar entrances, secret passwords, bustling gambling dens, and the infamous “disorderly houses,” all cleverly concealed in plain sight within our community.
During the wild period of Prohibition in the United States, many social changes were set into motion, including the women’s suffrage movement, that have now become integral parts of modern American society and are often taken for granted.
Celebrating Prohibition
At History Repeatn’ we love celebrating this fascinating period in American History through our immersive event experiences. Our Prohibition Cocktail Parties and themed pub crawls not only entertain attendees but also serve as educational experiences, engaging guests in the era’s cocktails, creativity, and historical significance.
History Repeatn’ is an innovative pop-up events company that offers historically themed experiences for audiences of all ages.
Based in Northport, NY, our events encourage people and communities to come together, giving participants the opportunity to socialize, make friends, and learn- just not in a boring way!
Established in 2024 by friends and former colleagues Carol Taylor, John Daniello, and Pete Gallo, History Repeatn’ partners with local venues to provide distinctive and enjoyable experiences throughout Long Island. We have been featured in publications and online, and are members of Northport Chamber of Commerce.
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