Who was Popcorn Sutton?
Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton was a legendary moonshiner from Maggie Valley, North Carolina. He was born in 1946 and died in 2009. Sutton was known for his homemade moonshine and his colorful personality. He was a larger-than-life figure who became a folk hero in the Appalachian Mountains.
The Last One
“The Last One” was the name of Sutton’s final batch of moonshine. He made it in 2008, just one year before he died. Sutton knew that he was nearing the end of his life, and he wanted to create one last masterpiece before he passed away.
How was “The Last One” made?
Sutton made “The Last One” using a traditional copper still. He used a recipe that had been handed down through his family for generations. The recipe included cornmeal, sugar, and yeast, among other ingredients. Sutton was known for his attention to detail, and he took great care in making sure that every part of the process was just right.
The Legacy
“The Last One” was more than just a batch of moonshine. It was a symbol of Sutton’s legacy. Sutton was a proud moonshiner who believed in the tradition and history of the craft. He was a rebel who refused to let the government tell him what he could and couldn’t do. He was a true Appalachian icon.
The Documentary
In 2009, a documentary was released called “The Last One: The Life and Times of Popcorn Sutton.” The film tells the story of Sutton’s life and his final days. It features interviews with Sutton’s friends and family members, as well as footage of him making “The Last One.” The documentary has become a cult classic and has helped to keep Sutton’s legacy alive.
The Popcorn Sutton Distillery
In 2010, a year after Sutton’s death, the Popcorn Sutton Distillery was opened in Newport, Tennessee. The distillery produces legal moonshine using Sutton’s recipe. The distillery is a tribute to Sutton’s legacy and his contribution to the moonshining tradition.
The Popcorn Sutton Festival
Every year, the town of Maggie Valley, North Carolina, holds a festival in honor of Popcorn Sutton. The festival features live music, food, and of course, moonshine. The festival is a celebration of Sutton’s life and his contribution to the Appalachian culture.
The Controversy
Sutton was a controversial figure. He was known for his defiance of the law and his disdain for authority. Some people saw him as a hero, while others saw him as a criminal. The controversy surrounding Sutton only added to his mystique and helped to make him a legend.
The Final Word
Popcorn Sutton was a unique and unforgettable character. He was a true icon of the Appalachian Mountains and a symbol of the moonshining tradition. “The Last One” was his final masterpiece, and it serves as a reminder of his legacy. Sutton may be gone, but his spirit lives on in the moonshine he made and the people who loved him.