First Kentucky Fried Chicken Sign – Corbin, KY
The first Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) restaurant was established in Corbin, Kentucky, by Colonel Harland Sanders in the 1930s. Originally, Sanders operated a small roadside service station called Sanders Court & Café, where he began serving home-cooked meals to travelers. His fried chicken, prepared using a unique blend of 11 herbs and spices, quickly gained popularity. By 1936, his culinary success earned him the honorary title of “Colonel” from the Governor of Kentucky. Sanders later refined his pressure-frying method, which allowed the chicken to cook faster while retaining its signature crispy texture.
In the 1950s, Sanders franchised his fried chicken recipe, and KFC rapidly expanded across the country. The original Corbin location remains a historic site, now home to the Harland Sanders Café and Museum. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the origins of KFC, including memorabilia, original kitchen equipment, and a replica of Sanders’ office. This iconic location continues to attract tourists eager to experience the birthplace of one of the world’s most famous fast-food chains.