Ferndale’s downtown will again commemorate the day in December 1933 that Congress and President Franklin D Roosevelt passed and signed the 21st amendment ending prohibition by enjoying legal libation and a taste of history.
Last year, eight watering holes and over a dozen volunteers raised almost $4,000 for the Good Fellows. The present economy is still challenging but folks are committed to raising support again. Venues will decorate in the 1930’s period and offer special drink prices. Staff and patrons are encouraged to wear period costumes (gangsters, flappers, rum runners etc.). The event will raise funds for Ferndale Good Fellows who offer assistance to needy families during the holiday season. Off duty police officers work with the fire department and other service organizations as part of Good Fellows to insure each child is warm, sheltered, fed and hopefully have a toy for the holiday. Donations will be collected through “passing the moonshine jug,” raffles, possible cover charges at some venues and through corporate contributions.
This year’s Sponsors include
Tito’s Vodka
Sneakers
Danny’s Irish Pub
The Bar Down Stairs
Green Thumb Garden Center
John R Glass of Troy
Sucher Tire Service
Twisted Tavern
Tommy’s Bar and Grill, Detroit
Oakland 115.com
Ferndale Friends Newspaper
Tiffani & Tom Gagne
Craig Covey
Councilman Greg Pawlica
Mayor Pro-tem Dan Martin
This year’s Clubs and restaurants participating include:
Bosco
Danny’s Irish Pub, venue and sponsor
Dino’s
Howe’s Bayou
New Way Bar
Sneakers, venue and sponsor
Soho
Twisted Tavern
More Info: Larry or Monica Mills 248-330-2328 or monmil@sbcglobal.net.
During prohibition, illegal liquor was in high demand, expensive and was making criminals rich and powerful. Police officers and the FBI were investing much time and money fighting a losing battle. Legalizing and taxing liquor offered better control and lawful jobs. During the Depression, President Roosevelt, (FDR) sought to help solve economic problems by raising money for the federal government from alcohol taxes and tariffs.
Source: City of Ferndale