The Real McCoy

By Frederic F. Van de Water

Forward by Stephen Jones

Before “Dutch” Schultz, before Jack “Legs” Diamond, before Al “Scarface” Capone, the U.S. Government’s most wanted outlaw was Florida boatbuilder William “Bill” McCoy. When Prohibition became the law of the land, Bill McCoy bought himself a schooner, sailed to the Bahamas, loaded her to the gunwales with scotch, rye, gin and bourbon, and began transporting liquor at sea for money and adventure. For nearly four years he slacked the thirst of a nation while leading authorities on a merry chase. He pioneered new smuggling methods, founded the notorious Rum Row, and built a bootlegging empire that made millions of dollars. In all his dealings McCoy remained personable and trustworthy and true to his standard that the liquor he carried be the best… “the real McCoy.”

Published by Flat Hammock Press