Our History of Rum & Revolution is Yours to Explore

Ten Paces Rum: A Legacy of Courage and Rebellion

In the heart of New England, Rhode Island’s rum trade once shaped the economy and spirit of the colonies. More than just a beverage, rum was currency, livelihood, and defiance, flowing through the hands of merchants, sailors, and revolutionaries. Ten Paces Rum honors this legacy, distilled with the same boldness that fueled Rhode Island’s rise as a powerhouse in the 18th century.

The Lifeblood of the Colonies

Rum was the backbone of colonial commerce, with Rhode Island at its center. Skilled distillers turned Caribbean molasses into one of the most sought-after spirits, exported across the world. Newport alone produced millions of gallons annually, fueling trade and shaping economies.

Beyond commerce, rum was a staple of daily life, warming New England winters and filling colonial taverns. It symbolized independence allowing the colonies to thrive without reliance on British imports. But as British taxes tightened, Rhode Islanders refused to yield.

Defiance on the High Seas

When the Molasses Act of 1733 and Sugar Act of 1764 threatened Rhode Island’s rum trade, smugglers took to the sea, outrunning British patrols and evading taxes. Narragansett Bay became a battleground, with colonial mariners navigating treacherous waters under cover of darkness to keep trade alive.

In 1772, the burning of the HMS Gaspee marked one of the first acts of defiance against British rule. This customs schooner, infamous for harassing Rhode Island merchants, was lured aground and set ablaze by local patriots. Their message was clear: Rhode Island would not be controlled.

The Name “Ten Paces”

A tribute to bold action and uncertain fate, “Ten Paces” reflects the courage of those who took risks—whether standing in a duel or smuggling barrels of rum under British fire.

A Toast to the Bold

Each bottle of Ten Paces Rum carries the spirit of a colony that refused to be subdued. It’s a celebration of resilience, rebellion, and craftsmanship, honoring those who risked everything for freedom.

Raise a glass to the daring mariners, the revolutionaries, and the relentless pursuit of independence.