A possible moonshine cave has been discovered under the grandstands of the North Wilkesboro Speedway in North Carolina during a routine cleaning and inspection. This discovery was made when cracks were found in the original concrete in Section N, revealing an approximately 700-square-feet open area underneath. While no still has been found yet, Steve Swift, senior vice president of operations and development at Speedway Motorsports, believes that the cave and interior wall discovered would have been ideal for making illegal liquor and hiding from the law. The Speedway Motorsports staff plan to repair the foundation and replace the concrete ahead of NASCAR All-Star Race Week in May, with around 600 seats removed from the grandstands.
North Wilkesboro Speedway played a significant role in NASCAR history, becoming one of the original NASCAR race tracks after hosting the inaugural Strictly Stock Series. The speedway closed in 1996 but was restored and hosted NASCAR events again in 2023. Moonshine has a long history in NASCAR and North Carolina, with many early stars starting out as bootleggers transporting illegal moonshine on the mountain roads of Appalachia. Racing legend Junior Johnson, known as the best bootlegger in Wilkes County, is a prime example of the connection between moonshine and NASCAR.
The discovery of the possible moonshine cave at North Wilkesboro Speedway adds an intriguing dimension to the track’s already rich history. The idea that moonshine may have been produced and hidden under the grandstands adds to the mystique and folklore surrounding the speedway. While no still has been found yet, the presence of a small cave and interior wall that would have been perfect for moonshine production and evasion of the law sparks curiosity and speculation among racing fans and history enthusiasts.
The next steps for the Speedway Motorsports staff involve repairing the foundation and replacing the concrete in preparation for NASCAR All-Star Race Week in May. The removal of around 600 seats from the grandstands indicates that significant work will be undertaken to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. This process will not only address the discovery of the possible moonshine cave but also contribute to the ongoing preservation and maintenance of the historic North Wilkesboro Speedway.
The link between moonshine and NASCAR is well-documented, with many of the sport’s early stars engaging in bootlegging activities before making a name for themselves on the racetrack. The history of moonshine in North Carolina, particularly in the Wilkes County area, is intertwined with the roots of NASCAR and reflects the region’s cultural heritage. The discovery of a possible moonshine cave at North Wilkesboro Speedway serves as a reminder of this connection and adds a layer of intrigue to the track’s storied past.
In conclusion, the discovery of a possible moonshine cave under the grandstands of North Wilkesboro Speedway highlights the complex and fascinating history of NASCAR and its connection to moonshine production in North Carolina. The ongoing efforts to repair and restore the speedway for future NASCAR events demonstrate a commitment to preserving this heritage while also moving forward with modern racing activities. The role of moonshine in the early days of NASCAR, exemplified by figures like Junior Johnson, adds a unique element to the sport’s history and resonates with fans who appreciate the blend of tradition and innovation in racing. The exploration of the suspected moonshine cave at North Wilkesboro Speedway offers a glimpse into a bygone era and invites further exploration of the intertwining stories of NASCAR and moonshine in the American South.
