Celebrating Juneteenth: Honoring the Legacy of Nathan “Nearest” Green

At Anderson & Link Whiskey Company, we believe that every bottle of whiskey tells a story. It is a story of dedication, craftsmanship, and the rich tapestry of American history. As we approach Juneteenth, a day of profound significance, we reflect on the true meaning of freedom. This day commemorates the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States, highlighting the invaluable contribution of African Americans to our nation's heritage.

The Importance of Juneteenth

Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19th, marks a monumental event in American history. In 1865, Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, announcing the Civil War's end and the freedom of enslaved African Americans. This moment came over two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. It was a declaration of liberation and a joyous occasion symbolizing new beginnings.

While the road to true equality remains long and challenging, Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder of resilience, triumph, and the ongoing journey toward justice and recognition for all. It calls us to remember the struggles and sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.

The Connection to Whiskey Making

For us, as whiskey makers, this day resonates even deeper. We contemplate the untold stories embedded within our craft. The history of American whiskey is deeply intertwined with the labor, ingenuity, and expertise of enslaved and freed African Americans. Their skills, honed under unimaginable duress, laid the foundation for many beloved spirits. Among these skilled individuals, Nathan “Nearest” Green is a towering figure.

Nathan “Nearest” Green: An Unsung Hero

Born into slavery around 1820 in Maryland, Nathan Green, affectionately known as "Uncle Nearest," had an extraordinary talent for distilling. His journey eventually led him to Lynchburg, Tennessee, where he was leased to a local preacher and distiller named Dan Call. It was on Call's farm that American whiskey's destiny pivoted.

Young Jasper Newton Daniel, known as Jack Daniel, came to work for Reverend Call. What followed was not merely an apprenticeship but a mentorship that transformed whiskey production forever. Accounts reveal that Nearest Green, not Reverend Call, taught Jack Daniel the intricacies of whiskey making. Call recognized Green's exceptional skill and reportedly stated, "Uncle Nearest is the best whiskey maker that I know of." This endorsement speaks volumes about Green's mastery.

Mastering the Lincoln County Process

Nearest Green’s most significant contribution to the whiskey world is his refinement of the Lincoln County Process. This technique, now synonymous with Tennessee whiskey, involves filtering newly distilled whiskey through sugar maple charcoal before it is aged in barrels. The charcoal purifies the spirit, removing impurities and imparting the characteristic smoothness defining Tennessee whiskey.

The origins of charcoal filtering are debatable. Some historians suggest that African roots brought by enslaved people contributed to this technique. However, it was Nearest Green's expertise that solidified its role in American whiskey production. He perfected this vital step, ensuring the quality and unique character of the whiskey that would gain global acclaim.

A Legacy of Innovation and Mentorship

Beyond technical skill, Nearest Green was an innovator and a mentor. He taught Jack Daniel more than just a recipe; he instilled a profound understanding of the craft, fermentation, distillation, and aging. He passed down generations of knowledge, a legacy often overlooked due to the systemic injustices of the time.

From Obscurity to Recognition

For over a century, Nearest Green's monumental contributions remained largely unrecognized. The tale of Jack Daniel's rise often omitted the essential role played by his mentor. Thanks to the tireless work of Fawn Weaver, an entrepreneur and historian, Nearest Green's story emerged from the shadows. Weaver's extensive research and interviews with Green's descendants illuminated irrefutable evidence of his pivotal role.

This awareness led to establishing Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey in 2017. This brand honors Nearest Green’s legacy while producing exceptional spirits using the same dedication to quality and the Lincoln County Process. The Nearest Green Distillery, located in Shelbyville, Tennessee, stands as a testament to his enduring impact. It offers tours that celebrate his life, family, and remarkable contributions.

The brand's expressions, like Uncle Nearest 1856 Premium Whiskey (named for the year Green began perfecting his process) and Uncle Nearest 1820 Single Barrel Whiskey (named for his estimated birth year), serve as liquid embodiments of reclaimed history. Each sip pays tribute to a man who shaped an industry.

Continuing the Conversation

The story of Nearest Green is a powerful reminder of the countless unsung heroes in history, particularly those whose contributions were marginalized due to systemic injustices. It highlights the importance of recognizing and amplifying these voices to honor their brilliance and impact.

At Anderson & Link Whiskey Company, we believe that true American craftsmanship relies on diverse traditions and innovations. Juneteenth is a moment to celebrate freedom and acknowledge the rich tapestry of our nation's past. It underscores the profound influence of African Americans on industries like ours.

As we raise a glass this Juneteenth, let it be a toast to freedom, resilience, and the enduring spirit of human ingenuity. Let it honor Nathan “Nearest” Green, the first African American master distiller, whose contributions helped craft the essence of American whiskey. His legacy reminds us that excellence knows no boundaries. By acknowledging our full history, we enrich our present and build a more inclusive future for all.

May we continue to learn, grow, and ensure that the stories of those who built this nation are never forgotten. Happy Juneteenth from all of us at Anderson & Link Whiskey Company.