Abner “Longy” Zwillman: The Shrewd and Fearless Gangster of His Time
My fellow outlaws and admirers of the underworld! Today, we pay homage to one of the most cunning and audacious gangsters of yesteryears, none other than Abner “Longy” Zwillman. This guy was the real deal, a true boss in every sense of the word. His name echoed through the alleys and reverberated in the hearts of those who dared to challenge his power.
Longy was a product of the Prohibition era, a time when liquor flowed like water beneath the noses of law enforcement. He was born in Newark, New Jersey, in 1904, and from a young age, he set his sights on a path less traveled. He started with petty crimes, but soon enough, he saw the golden opportunity presented by the illicit alcohol trade. A man with vision, he quickly rose through the ranks of organized crime, and soon, his empire extended far beyond Newark’s boundaries.
Known for his sharp intellect and crafty schemes, Longy had a gift for making connections and forging alliances. His closest “associates” were Frank Costello, Meyer Lansky, Benny Siegel and Joe Adonis. His underboss was Willie Moretti – the guy who got Sinatra out of his contract with Tommy Dorsey. Longy was a master at navigating the intricate web of politics and underworld deals, always staying one step ahead of the law. But don’t be fooled by his charm; he was also a force to be reckoned with. Crossing him was a dangerous game, as many would come to learn the hard way.
Rumors swirled about Longy’s involvement in everything from bootlegging and gambling to loan sharking and murder-for-hire. Yet, despite facing several indictments and investigations, he always managed to slip away from the clutches of justice. Some said he had a hand in law enforcement circles, but no one could ever prove it.
As the years went by, Longy’s grip on the underworld tightened further. But as they say, all empires must fall. In 1959, under the looming shadow of a congressional investigation, Abner “Longy” Zwillman was found dead in his New Jersey mansion. The circumstances of his death remain shrouded in mystery, leaving a legacy that lives on in the annals of organized crime history.
THE CAPE CODDER
INGREDIENTS:
2 oz. Vodka
3 oz. Cranberry Juice
HOW TO MAKE:
In a Highball glass add ice.
Add vodka and cranberry juice.
Mix well.
Add the Garnish
Enjoy!
GLASS: Highball Glass
GARNISH: Slap a lime wheel on the rim of the glass.
