St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect opportunity to hear some local Irish lore, especially if it’s about beer.

According to local legend, in 1950, the first ever shipment of Smithwick’s (pronounced “Smiddicks”) Irish Ale was delivered to and then stolen off of the docks of the Boston Harbor. The culprits were never caught, leaving in their wake a slew of questions. Why would someone steal the first 84 cases of beer to reach U.S. soil – and what did they do with it?

We’ve pondered several reasons: Maybe someone really wanted to be the first to drink imported Irish beer, and a lot of it.

Or perhaps someone didn’t want this beer in Boston. But if so, why? And who was it?  Could it have been Whitey Bulger and his crew? If the first shipment was never stolen, perhaps Smithwick’s could’ve changed Boston’s current Irish beer scene by being preferred over Guinness.

According to its website, the beer is distinguished by its fruity aroma, floral and malty notes, and a ruby red color.

There’s no better excuse to try a new beer, especially on St. Patrick’s Day. You can currently find the ale at several Boston pubs, including but not limited to Solas, MJ O’ Connor’s, Green Briar Pub.

Who knows, maybe the taste of a little mystery makes it that much better.

View a video of the legend from the Smithwick’s site here: