Discover the Moonshine Capital of the World
Experience the authentic taste of Appalachian tradition at Twin Creeks Distillery in Rocky Mount, Virginia. Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, our distillery boasts a rich moonshine heritage dating back generations. Crafted with time-honored techniques and locally-sourced ingredients, our moonshine pays homage to the region's storied past. Join us for a tasting journey that captures the spirit of Virginia's moonshine legacy at Twin Creeks Distillery.
Our Grandpap, James Walter "Peg" Hatcher was a kingpin in the nationally known "Great Moonshine Conspiracy Trial of 1935" in Franklin County, Virginia. Peg Hatcher was a key figure in Rocky Mount's history, known for his role in the Great Moonshine Conspiracy Trial of 1935. As one of the defendants in the trial, he was a central figure in the illicit moonshine trade that was prevalent in the region. His involvement in the trial and the moonshine trade are significant aspects of Rocky Mount's historical narrative.
Built in 1912, our building was originally home to the Turner Motor Company, a historic automobile dealership. On July 11, 1930, two employees fired up the engines of two Model T Fords and ran across the street for a quick errand while the cars warmed up. The Model T’s, loaded with moonshine, caught fire due to a leaking fuel pump. The heat and weight of the vehicles burned through the garage floor, landing the cars upside-down in the basement. The flooring and walls were rebuilt, leaving the vehicles untouched in the basement for 85 years.
During the time that the building was the Helms Farmers Exchange, it became the center of an FBI investigation, Operation Lightning Strike. The Helms brothers that owned the building were sold more than 12 million pounds of sugar yielding an estimated 1.4 million gallons of untaxed liquor. The Dixie Crystal Sugar Company in Savannah, GA reported that Helms Farmers Exchange were their #2 customer just under Hershey Chocolate Company.
Savor the flavors of Appalachia at Rocky Mount Burger Company, where every bite tells a tale of local pride and passion. From mouthwatering burgers to handcrafted moonshine concoctions, we invite you to experience the authentic blend of culinary innovation and Southern hospitality that defines Rocky Mount Burger Company. Join us and discover why we're a top destination for unforgettable dining experiences.
Embark on a culinary journey steeped in Appalachian tradition at Rocky Mount Smokehouse, your destination for authentic flavors and soulful dining in Rocky Mount, Virginia. Indulge in our mouthwatering smoked meats infused with the essence of moonshine, perfectly complemented by our handcrafted selection of moonshine cocktails and sauces. From tender brisket to savory ribs, each dish embodies the rich heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains. We are proud to serve locally made moonshine from Rooster's Rise n' Shine, Twin Creeks Distillery, Law's Choice, and Tim Smith.
During prohibition much of the liquor made in the hills of Franklin County made its way into speakeasies in cities like New York and Chicago. Anastasia's Speakeasy, located in Downtown Rocky Mount, harkens back to the days of illicit liquor served in back rooms. Head to Anastasia's Speakeasy, where every pour tells a story of rebellion.
Living Proof Beer Company in Rocky Mount, Virginia, embodies the spirit of innovation and tradition in the heart of Appalachia. The brewery pays homage to the region's rich history, including nods to the legacy of moonshine distillation that thrived in Franklin County. With a fusion of craft beer with names such as Peckin’ the Cap, Hooch Holler, Copper Still and Granny Fee, Living Proof offers a unique experience where visitors can savor distinct flavors while immersing themselves in the vibrant heritage of the Moonshine Capital of the World. The sticker wall is signed by several of the "Moonshiners" from the popular Discovery Channel show, some of which frequent the brewery. At Living Proof Beer Company, every pint tells a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and the enduring spirit of Rocky Mount.
The Franklin County Virginia Historical Society Moonshine Museum offers a captivating journey into the clandestine world of moonshine production in the heart of Appalachia. Visitors are immersed in the region's storied past, discovering the ingenuity and folklore surrounding illegal distillation during Prohibition and beyond. Exhibits showcase authentic artifacts, including stills, jars, and tools, shedding light on the innovative methods and colorful characters that defined the era. Through engaging narratives the museum vividly illustrates the profound impact of moonshine culture on Franklin County's history and identity.
Franklin County Moonshine History
In the annals of American history, Franklin County, Virginia, stands as an emblem of moonshine culture, earning its reputation as the "Moonshine Capital of the World." Deeply rooted in the rugged terrain of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the history of moonshine in Franklin County traces back to the era of Prohibition. Faced with economic hardship and the imposition of alcohol bans, locals turned to illicit distillation as a means of sustenance and defiance against government regulations. The county's abundant corn crops, coupled with its remote hollows and dense forests, provided ideal conditions for clandestine production. With resourcefulness and secrecy, generations of Franklin County residents honed their craft, distilling potent spirits hidden away from prying eyes. The tales of moonshiners and the pursuit of revenuers became legendary, immortalized in folklore and popular culture. Today, Franklin County's moonshine heritage serves as a testament to the resilience and independent spirit of its people, celebrated in museums, festivals, and the cherished traditions passed down through the ages.
