You could say that it all started with a bit of rebellious spirit stemming from the Whiskey Rebellion of 1794. In response to the imposition of an excise tax on whiskey, struggling farmers in Washington County met in secrecy near Mingo Creek and collectively agreed to defy the government of our new nation by refusing to pay the tax. As a symbol of their unity, the Mingo Creek Society planted Liberty Poles throughout the county.
Today, heritage grain once again grows in the same soil they so dearly loved, travels down the paved paths upon which they drove the whiskey-laden mule trains, and arrives at the new Mingo Creek Meetinghouse where it is distilled and enjoyed by the next generation of the Mingo Creek Society.
And this time, the Liberty Pole is displayed on the label of each whiskey bottle produced by the Hough family of Mingo Creek Craft Distillers and symbolizes the loving appreciation for a craft that once again is bringing livelihood to a proud community.
Washington County is full of passionate people like the Hough’s who have cultivated a unique and exciting craft distillery, brew pub and winery scene. There is so much more to uncover from the small batch craft whiskeys and fruit liqueurs of Red Pump Spirits, to the eclectic mix of micro-breweries like Rusty Gold Brewing, Helltown Brewing, and the Washington Brewing Company. We even have a U.S. Civil War themed cidery, Arsenal Cider House & Wine Cellar at Trax Farms, that features hand-crafted hard apple cider, "cider style" fruit/grape wines and mead.
If wine flies when you’re having fun, we’ve got you covered there too. Take in the beautiful country scenery with a glass of wine in the outdoor seating area at J&D Cellars Winery & Vineyard, or, after an afternoon bike ride on the Panhandle Trail stop by PK Winery in McDonald for a free tasting of their small batch wines.
Visit the birthplace of American rebellion and get a taste of the real American Spirit in Washington County. Schedule a tour at one of our distilleries, micro-breweries, or wineries today!
