Tag Archive: Kentucky

Historic Brown Hotel Entrance – Louisville, Kentucky

Historic Brown Hotel Entrance - Louisville, Kentucky

The historic Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, is a renowned landmark celebrated for its rich heritage and elegant charm. Opened in 1923, this Georgian Revival-style hotel quickly became a cultural centerpiece, attracting celebrities, politicians, and socialites. The Brown Hotel is best known as the birthplace of the famous “Hot Brown,” an open-faced turkey and bacon sandwich with Mornay sauce, created in the 1920s to satisfy late-night revelers. Its opulent interior, featuring grand ballrooms, marble columns, and intricate chandeliers, evokes the glamour of a bygone era. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Brown Hotel continues to offer luxurious accommodations and world-class dining, blending its storied past with modern elegance.

Green River Ferry – Mammoth Cave – Kentucky

Green River Ferry - Mammoth Cave - Kentucky

The Green River Ferry, located in Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky, has a storied history dating back to the early 20th century. Established to connect communities separated by the Green River, the ferry provided an essential transportation link in an area where bridges were scarce. Operated by the National Park Service since the establishment of the park in 1941, the ferry has served as a reliable crossing for vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles. Its operation highlights the intersection of local heritage and natural preservation, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s transportation history while providing access to the park’s scenic and geological wonders. Today, the Green River Ferry continues to operate as one of the few remaining rural ferries in Kentucky, preserving an enduring tradition.

Ice House – Ashland – Henry Clay Estate – Lexington, Kentucky

Ice House - Ashland - Henry Clay Estate - Lexington, Kentucky

A buried ice house at the Henry Clay Estate (Ashland), intended to keep food and ice cold year around.

The Henry Clay Estate, also known as Ashland, is a historic landmark located in Lexington, Kentucky. This grand estate was the home of Henry Clay, a prominent 19th-century statesman and orator known as the “Great Compromiser” for his efforts to maintain the Union. The property spans over 17 acres and includes the meticulously preserved mansion, a carriage house, formal gardens, and walking trails. One notable feature is the ice house, an underground structure used during Clay’s time for food and ice storage year-round, demonstrating the innovative practices of the era. Today, the estate serves as a museum and cultural site, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of one of America’s most influential political figures.