Distillery owner stunned by hidden loaded Capone gun: ‘Relieved!’

Discovery of a Prohibition-Era Relic Makes History News:

An Illinois distillery owner made a stunning find when he uncovered a fully loaded gun dating back to the Al Capone era. The weapon, a Colt 1908 pistol manufactured in 1921, was hidden within the walls of the Thornton Distilling Company. This site, located in Illinois’ oldest standing brewery established in 1857, has deep ties to the Prohibition period. Historical records indicate the building was controlled by the Capone and Torrio families, as well as the Chicago Outfit, during that time.

Unearthing the Hidden Weapon

Andrew Howell, founder of the Thornton Distilling Company, spotted the pistol sealed inside an abandoned exhaust vent from a potbelly stove in an underground limestone well. While inspecting the vent to potentially run a conduit through it, Howell noticed loose mortar and pulled back pieces to reveal the holstered gun, complete with a full magazine. He noted that the weapon appeared to have been concealed there long ago, though the exact timing remains unclear, possibly from the 1920s.

Verification and Historical Significance

Local police from the Thornton Police Department examined the gun’s serial numbers and confirmed it had no criminal associations or reports of being missing. They also identified the ammunition as dating back to the 1920s, aligning with the pistol’s era. Howell expressed initial uncertainty about the gun’s age, prompting the check to ensure it wasn’t linked to any modern issues. The discovery adds to a collection of artifacts at the site, including mid-1800s beer order postcards, pre-Prohibition signage, and full beer bottles found buried outside.

Owner’s Reaction and Future Display

Howell described his reaction as a blend of excitement and anxiety upon finding the gun, particularly relieved that it was discovered before any tour groups could stumble upon it in the vent. The distillery frequently hosts visitors in the area, making the hidden spot a potential hazard. He plans to showcase the pistol alongside other historical items in the bar and restaurant, eager to delve deeper into its backstory and connections to the building’s notorious past.

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