Filmmaker to answer questions, share behind-the-scenes stories
The prohibition documentary, “Minnesota 13: From Grain to Glass,” will be shown at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Stearns History Museum. Director Kelly Nathe will be on hand to answer questions and share stories about the film-making process.
The film explores the history of Minnesota 13, an elite moonshine produced by Stearns County farmers and sold throughout the country during Prohibition, and the modern-day attempt to resuscitate the brand. It also examines the history and lore of the corn-based whiskey through rich archival materials and interviews with the moonshiners’ descendants.
Nathe, whose roots run deep in Stearns County, became interested in its bootlegging history at an early age when she came across a newspaper clipping that documented her grandfather’s arrest for making illegal whiskey. The discovery planted a seed that eventually germinated when she read “Minnesota 13: Wet Wild Prohibition Days” by longtime St. Cloud State professor Elaine Davis. Nathe and film partner, Norah Shapiro, spent two years making the documentary.
Reservations are strongly recommended, as space is limited. Admission is $5 for members and $8 for nonmembers. Contact the Stearns History Museum at (320) 253-8424, to make reservations. Also, check out our website,
stearns-museum.org, for more upcoming events.
About Stearns History Museum
Founded in 1936, the Stearns History Museum works to connect people to the power of history and culture by collecting, preserving, and interpreting our historical and cultural resources. It is nationally accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.