The Prohibition era, from 1920 to 1933, was a tumultuous time in American history, especially in Long Island, New York. Beneath the surface of this idyllic suburban region, a hidden world of speakeasies, bootlegging operations, and mob activities flourished. Let's unveil the secrets of Long Island during Prohibition!

1. Secret Speakeasies

Speakeasies were clandestine bars where patrons could enjoy a drink without fear of the law. Long Island was home to many such establishments. One notable speakeasy was the former Sands Point mansion, believed to have inspired settings in F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby".

2. Bootlegging Operations

With the Atlantic Ocean to the south and Long Island Sound to the north, Long Island was a strategic location for whiskey smuggling. Notorious mobster William "Bill" Dwyer orchestrated a large-scale bootlegging operation, using speedboats to whisk whiskey from international waters to secluded beaches and inlets.

3. The Mob Connection

Prohibition gave rise to organized crime, and Long Island was no exception. Mobsters like Al Capone have been linked to smuggling operations on Long Island. Local folklore even suggests hidden tunnels and secret rooms in some historic buildings used for mob meetings and smuggling.

4. The Rise of Local Breweries

The end of Prohibition marked the beginning of legal brewing on Long Island. Brewers like William Van Nostrand were pioneers in this industry. Today, Long Island is home to a booming craft beer scene, a testament to its resilience and ingenuity during the Prohibition era.

Long Island's Prohibition-era history paints a fascinating picture of a time when this quiet, suburban region became a hotbed for secret activities and defiance of federal law. As we sip our local craft beers today, we can't help but reflect on this intriguing chapter of Long Island's past.