Santa Barbara’s history in illegal rum running

An exhibit at the Santa Barbara Maritime Museum explores how Santa Barbara’s islands and coves played a central role in the illegal rum trade during Prohibition.

Rum Runners, Sailors, and Prohibition tells the story of rum, and its connection to Santa Barbara’s sea-going men. In fact, some of the city’s major historical figures like Bill McCoy and Dr. Sansum, of Sansum Clinics, even played a part in smuggling booze.

Santa Cruz Island was filled with secret caves and coves perfect for hiding illegal rum operations. Photo credit: SCIF Archives

The Caprice, the Santa Barbara Yacht Club signature boat, was absconded by the US Coast Guard to chase rum runners because it was light and fast. Photo credit: Santa Barbara Maritime Museum

SBMM Lecture: The Real McCoy: Rum Runners from Santa Barbara Maritime Museum on Vimeo.