Casey Jones Distillery recently announced they are planning a $2 million expansion. Co-founder Peg Hays says the expansion will significantly increase production and create around 15 jobs within the next few years.
click to download audioThe story of Casey Jones begins almost 100 years ago. The legendary Kentuckian built around 150 square copper stills which were the first of their kind. The still’s unique shape made it portable- allowing for an easy exit when making moonshine.
The still that sits in the beloved distillery today is an exact replica of the original copper still, handmade by Jones’ grandson, Master Distiller, and co-founder AJ Jones.
Peg and AJ originally planned for Casey Jones Distillery to be a hobby, but their business has flourished throughout the years. In 2017, their distillery was the premier location for visitors wanting to see the solar eclipse. The Hays family trademarked Total Eclipse Moonshine, welcomed over 6,000 visitors, and suddenly found themselves on the path to tourism and spirits production.
Three years later, they adapted to COVID-19 by manufacturing their own hand sanitizer.
Now, the distillery’s products are shipped all over the country and even to Canada. Hays says they can now be found in places like New York City.
click to download audioEven in the midst of a large expansion, Hays says they are always planning the next step: being the best they can possibly be for the community of Christian County. She adds Casey Jones has continuously won awards for its bourbon and moonshine, receiving one just this week.
click to download audioHays says her favorite part of being at Casey Jones is just that – being there. With such a vivid history and exciting expansion, Casey Jones Distillery will undoubtedly continue to be a household name throughout Western Kentucky.
(Story by: Nolia Williams)
