Spirits of War: The history of craft distilling during times of conflict
As we gather this Remembrance Day, we must remember those who served and reflect on how conflict has affected every facet of life, including craft distilling. For centuries, liquor played a role on the battlefield and at home. Liquor was a comfort for soldiers; it also symbolized peace. Here at Sternwheeler Craft Distillery, we honour this heritage with a nod to the past and a ‘spirit’ that brings people together in remembrance and reflection.
Throughout history, liquor was more than just a luxury; it was necessary for soldiers. During the Napoleonic Wars, rum became the staple drink for the British. Navy personnel received their daily "tot. " Rum was a reward and a morale booster, helping sailors weather the brutality of life at sea. Spirits like whiskey and brandy were also used medicinally to calm nerves, treat wounds, and even prevent disease—long before the advent of modern medicine.
During World War I, alcohol was part of the daily rations. "Rum rations" were a staple for British and Canadian armies. This ration was comfort for troops engaged in trench warfare. It helped soldiers warm up in cold conditions, overcome fear, and gather courage. For some, sharing a drink became a moment of camaraderie and unity amid the chaos.
The temperance movement gained momentum in the early 20th century and took hold during World War I. Prohibition was introduced across Canada and other parts of the world. Liquor was seen as a social evil that distracted from the war effort and wasted valuable resources. Prohibition laws were enacted in Canada as a moral measure, but it didn’t stop Canadians from finding ways to drink.
Underground distilleries flourished, and bootlegging became a profitable, worthwhile business. Soldiers returning home from war experienced a remarkably different landscape. The once-common tavern or pub was shuttered or driven underground. This clash between Prohibition and wartime drinking revealed the resilience of the human spirit—even as the world teetered between war and peace, the desire to share a drink with friends remained a symbol of connection.
As we remember the sacrifices made by our veterans, we also recognize how the distillation of spirits can bring people together. At Sternwheeler Craft Distillery, we continue the tradition of crafting spirits that tell stories, much like the ones passed down through generations of soldiers and families. Whether it’s raising a glass to those who served or sharing stories over a drink, craft distilleries like ours are part of a long history of community and remembrance.
Today, veterans and their families continue to find work and purpose in the craft distilling industry. They use discipline, leadership, and resilience learned from service to create something that brings people together. The culture of shared drinking that helped soldiers bond through hardship continues in peacetime, where craft spirits represent craftsmanship, history, and human connection.
On Remembrance Day, as we pause to honour those who have served, let’s remember that the history of war and liquor is shared. From the battlefields to the distilleries, spirits have been part of our collective story—offering moments of comfort, camaraderie, and reflection. At Sternwheeler Craft Distillery, we invite you to join us in raising a glass to our veterans and remembering their sacrifices for the freedom we enjoy today.
Join us at Sternwheeler Craft Distillery on Remembrance Day as we pay tribute to our veterans. Whether you’re visiting our tasting room or sharing a bottle with loved ones, let’s honour the past and look forward to a future built on remembrance and respect.
