Thornton Distilling Co. Founder Finds Loaded Prohibition-Era Gun Hidden in Wall

It’s been a “wild” few days at the distillery, according to founder Andrew Howell. Thornton Distilling Co., founded in 2019 is housed in the oldest standing brewery in the state of Illinois, which dates back to 1857. It operated as a brewery from its inception and for decades after opening, including during the years of Prohibition when it billed itself as a soda bottling plant. In reality, it continued as a beer brewing operation supplying to Chicago gangsters. Al Capone is believed to have been heavily involved in distributing its supply during that time.

Earlier this month, Howell discovered a gun hidden within the limestone brick wall surrounding the underground artesian well at the property. The gun was loaded and he immediately contacted the Thornton Police Department to report it. 

While measuring for possible electrical installation, he examined a hole that had once been a vent for a stove. He hesitantly reached in and felt something and when he shined a flashlight into the opening, noticed the chrome finish.

From the police department’s information based on the serial number, It was identified as a Colt Model 1908 gun and was likely manufactured between 1903 and 1923. Howell is working with gun experts to get additional information and gauge the weapon’s value. 

Though they’ll likely never know for sure who stashed the gun there and what (or who) its bullets were aimed at, its another piece of fascinating history to a building that is also a popular site among ghost hunters.

You can learn a bit of the distillery’s history on one of their weekend tours. For more information, visit thorntondistilling.com.

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