What type of gun was found at the Thornton Distilling Company?

A Colt 1908 pistol manufactured in 1921, dating back to the Al Capone era, was discovered.

Where was the historic gun hidden?

The loaded firearm was found concealed within the wall of an underground limestone well, inside an old exhaust vent.

What is the historical significance of the Thornton Distilling Company building?

The building is the oldest standing brewery in Illinois and was under the control of organized crime figures during the Prohibition era.

Home / Crime and Justice / Al Capone-Era Gun Found Loaded in Distillery

Al Capone-Era Gun Found Loaded in Distillery

2 Feb

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Summary

An Al Capone-era Colt 1908 pistol was found.
The loaded firearm was discovered hidden in a wall.
It was located inside the oldest brewery in Illinois.

Al Capone-Era Gun Found Loaded in Distillery

A significant historical artifact has been unearthed at the Thornton Distilling Company, located in Illinois's oldest standing brewery. Andrew Howell, the founder of the distillery, discovered a Colt 1908 pistol, manufactured in 1921, hidden within a wall. The weapon was found sealed inside an abandoned exhaust vent in an underground limestone well.

The building has a storied past, having been controlled by figures associated with the Capone and Torrio families during the Prohibition era. The discovered pistol was found holstered and fully loaded with ammunition that appears to date back to the 1920s. Police confirmed the firearm has no criminal associations, with its age estimated to be from the early 20th century.

This find adds to the collection of historical items found at the distillery, which include old beer order postcards and pre-Prohibition signage. These artifacts are displayed at the venue, contributing to its historical ambiance and visitor experience.