SHERIDAN – From the “rum runners” that plied the waters of Lake Erie to the secret stills and dance halls that sprouted up in the hills, the next public program of the Sheridan Historical Society promises to shine a light on the many tales of Prohibition era lawlessness that have been passed down in local communities. Sam Genco and Karen Livsey will present “A Peek at Prohibition in Chautauqua County” on Tuesday beginning at 7 p.m. in the Sheridan Historical Center. The lecture is free and open to the public.

Local history buffs may remember the presenters from programs at other venues around the county. Genco and Livsey have many years of combined experience researching local history. Prior to retirement, Genco worked at Lake View Cemetery in Jamestown for over 30 years and Livsey was the Librarian/Archivist at the Fenton History Center in Jamestown. “We’re always looking for a good story in local history,” Livsey shared.

This new program is the result of the pair’s extensive research in local newspapers and law enforcement records from the period between 1920 and 1933, when the 18th Amendment made it illegal to manufacture, sell, or transport alcoholic beverages. Though violators of Prohibition often went to great lengths to hide their illicit activities, press coverage of police raids and arrests documented interesting details.

Local authorities had a particularly challenging time along the Lake Erie shoreline, where “rum runners” smuggled in illegal spirits from Canada. Attendants can expect to hear stories from Sheridan, the surrounding lake towns, and beyond.

Those interested are also encouraged to come early and view the Historical Center’s exhibits. Visitors are welcome beginning at 5 p.m. and continuing until the start of the program at 7. The Historical Center is located at the corner of U.S. Route 20 and Center Road in Sheridan. For more information visit www.sheridanhistorical.org or call (716) 960-9026 or (716) 673-1822.