Rum-Running in PEI
Can you imagine a PEI where drinking was prohibited? I know, it must be hard to imagine. But, from 1901 to 1948, PEI was a dry province. Of course, when something in high demand is illegal and locals are strapped for cash, illegal industries will pop up. Both Canada and the United States were under prohibition and Canada was in an ideal position to help supply the US with alcohol - such a long unprotected border and politicians that, with a little cash persuasion, looked the other way. It was a lucrative business. For example, you could sell a $3 bottle of Canadian Whiskey to a speakeasy or gangster in New York for $7 to $9. By the time that whiskey reaches the consumer, they may pay $12 for it! Plus, some of this rum was so strong, they had to water it down before they sold it, so they made even more money off it. Atlantic Canada was in a great position in the rum-running industry - thousands of hidden coves along both sides of the border were great places to hide cargo a...
