From 1920 to 1933, the US Virgin Islands was included in the nationwide ban during prohibition.
Despite the law, many inhabitants imported liquor secretly.
Contraband
Found!
In November 1933, a Tortola sloop was found wrecked on White rock off St. Thomas.
The owner reported to Harbormaster Simmons that he had no idea how the vessel came to be in St. Thomas. He said, he “left his boat anchored in Tortola“.
When he appeared not to be too concerned about who could have taken it, the Harbormaster became suspicious.
The following day, cases of liquor were found floating in several places at the waterfront.
It wasn’t long before citizens were celebrating with free bottles of White Horse Whiskey!
Prohibition Ends!
One month later, on December 5, 1933, Prohibition ended.
It offered the citizens another opportunity for more celebrations! 🍷
