The Poultney Historical Society is pleased to host a lecture from Adam Krakowski, author of "Vermont Prohibition: Teetotalers, Bootleggers & Corruption", on Saturday, September 14 at 1pm at the Poultney Public Library.

Vermont became the nation's second dry state in 1853. But some locals refused to comply, and inept law enforcement led to ineffective consequences. What was intended to increase wholesomeness forced a newly carved detour toward crime and corruption. Early laws, such as the Liquor Law of 1853, targeted distilled spirits while conveniently protecting cider. As regulations tightened, morals loosened. Without legalized booze, smugglers imported liquor from Canada, and bootleggers ensured that domestic speakeasies kept the liquor flowing. Crime ran so rampant that Newport, Richford and Lyndonville residents relocated to escape rum-running gangs. Join author Adam Krakowski as he discloses the tumultuous side of Vermont's temperance movement.

Adam Krakowski is a decorative and fine arts conservator who has worked at museums, historical societies, art galleries and restoration firms all over New York and New England. Adam authored or co-authored three books focused on Vermont's complicated history with alcohol. He writes for Yankee Brewing News, a brewing industry newspaper, and contributes to other regional and national publications. In 2010, he was the recipient of the Weston Cate Jr. Research Fellowship from the Vermont Historical Society.

The Poultney Public Library is located at 205 Main Street, Poultney, VT. The Poultney Historical Society will hold its annual meeting prior to the lecture at noon.

Event Info

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