Wilkes County, NC - the moonshine capital of the world

Moonshine capital of the world - a title given to Wilkes County, NC back in the 1950's by U.S. Federal Revenue officers that were sent in to attempt to stop the moonshine activity that was rampant within the county.  

In the early 1900's, moonshining was the most effective and in most cases the only source of income that a family could receive.  Times were tough back then.  

Wilkes County was not as farming friendly as it is now and there was a hefty demand for high quality white liquor in North Carolina and the rest of the United States, specifically - Wilkes County steam shine.

Known in some parts of the world as Hells Half Acres - Call Section is a place that was once home to some of the toughest individuals in western North Carolina.  

It was due to the high volume illegal whiskey production in this area that led federal revenue officers to dub Wilkes County, NC - The Moonshine Capital of the World.

Large steam still operation located in Wilkes County in Call's Section. Note the 4x4 open wood fermentation boxes on left and the still, burners, thumper, and condenser on right.

The Revenuer in the background looking on to his find.