What the statistics don't measure is how extensively Prohibition was flouted. Bootleggers established vast distribution networks. Makers of moonshine and "bathtub gin" proliferated, sometimes producing fatally tainted liquor. Determined drinkers concealed their contraband in hip flasks or hollowed out canes. Maryland refused to pass a law enforcing the Volstead Act.
McSorley's Old Ale House, established in New York in 1854 and still flourishing as one of the city's oldest bars, bever closed during Prohibition. Ostensibly, it served "bear beer" with permissibly low alcohol content, but in fact produced a strong ale from a makeshift brewery erected in the basement.
"It wasn't a near beer. It was McSorley's ale," said the pub's manager, Gregory de la Haba. "At least once a week, people ask, 'What did we do during Prohibition?' And my reply, 'We made a ton of money.' "
The federal government, as well as the state and local authorities, spent huge sums on enforcement yet never allocated sufficient resources to do the job effectively. Bootleggers awash in cash bribed judges, politicians and law enforcement officers to let their operations continue.
--CootDrinkItUp
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