Editing Philadelphia Distilleries (section)

== History ==

=== Colonial Era ===

Philadelphia was colonial America's largest city and a major producer and consumer of spirits. Rum, made from Caribbean molasses, was widely produced and consumed. Whiskey production expanded after the Revolution, particularly as Scots-Irish settlers brought distilling traditions. The Whiskey Rebellion of 1794, though centered in western Pennsylvania, reflected the importance of whiskey production to the regional economy.<ref name="distill"/>

=== Industrial Era ===

The nineteenth century saw industrialization of spirits production, with large distilleries replacing small-scale craft production. Philadelphia's role shifted from production to distribution, with its port handling spirits from elsewhere. National brands achieved dominance that eliminated most local production.<ref name="distill"/>

=== Prohibition and After ===

Prohibition (1920-1933) devastated American distilling. Post-Prohibition consolidation created a spirits industry dominated by large corporations producing in a few locations. Philadelphia, like most cities, lost its distilling industry entirely. For decades, the city produced no spirits.<ref name="distill"/>

=== Craft Revival ===

The craft spirits movement, following craft beer's success, brought distilling back to Philadelphia in the 2010s. Regulatory changes enabling small distilleries combined with consumer interest in local and artisanal products created opportunity for new producers. Philadelphia's distilleries now produce spirits sold locally and distributed regionally.<ref name="distill"/>