Kentucky’s small towns often have traditions that bond the community and create lasting memories for generations of local families. Sometimes these traditions last forever; sometimes they fade away. In the town of Mayfield in western Kentucky, a Christmas tradition that took place in the 1960s was missed by those around today, so they decided they wanted it to bring it back to life. The community rallied together and built Cartwright Grove, and this 1800s Old West town in Kentucky may just be your new favorite destination.

Back in the 1960s, it was a holiday tradition for locals to pay a visit to the Cartwright Farm for their 1800s-themed Christmas Town. These visits led to fond memories and residents decided they wanted to recreate this tradition for present and future generations. Thus, Cartwright Grove was born.
Facebook/Cartwright Grove
The town has been built over the past few years, thanks to many volunteers and donations, and it continues to be a work in progress. But, this 1800s-era Old West town is taking shape and enough of the buildings are in place that it has already taken shape a charming and nostalgic destination.
Facebook/Cartwright Grove
The town is already home to nine attractions, each of which you likely would have found in a small town in the 1800s. The white, steepled church is a beautiful beacon and is sure to be one of the favorite features.
Facebook/Cartwright Grove

Related Stories

This Speakeasy Hidden In A Swanky Hotel In Kentucky Is Perfect For A Date Night

This Speakeasy Hidden In A Swanky Hotel In Kentucky Is Perfect For A Date Night

 You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Doughdaddy’s Donuts In Kentucky

You'll Never Look At Donuts The Same Way After Trying Doughdaddy’s Donuts In Kentucky

 Enjoy A Bourbon Trail Airbnb Adventure In A Caboose At This Kentucky Spot

Enjoy A Bourbon Trail Airbnb Adventure In A Caboose At This Kentucky Spot
Within the town, you'll also find a General Store, Barber Shop, Saloon, and much more. The attention to detail does not go unnoticed, which will surely make this a beloved family destination.
Facebook/Cartwright Grove
Volunteers continue to spend months and months designing, gathering materials, and building this town. It's amazingly authentic and the perfect setting for a number of different events and gatherings.
Facebook/Cartwright Grove
Cartwright Grove is the result of a community wanting to bring back a tradition that brought joy to the town. This 1800s Old West town is truly a hidden gem in Kentucky!
Facebook/Cartwright Grove

Cartwright Grove is a wholly unique day trip in Kentucky that hosts events throughout the year. Are you from this area and do you have fond memories of the Cartwright Farm? Are you excited about the town’s new venture? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Cartwright Grove is located at the Graves County Fairground at 1004 KY-121, Mayfield, KY, 42066. For more information, visit the official Cartwright Grove website and follow along on Facebook.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Old West Town in Kentucky

Sarah M. | March 24, 2023

What are some other unique and historic towns in Kentucky?

Kentucky has many towns steeped in history, lore, and legend, and if you're curious to explore the most historic towns in Kentucky, definitely put the following legendary locales on your list:

  • Bardstown. Beautiful Bardstown receives lots of attention as the best, most beautiful, and most historic small town in Kentucky, and guess what? It deserves each and every word of praise. With local shops, vibrant businesses, and amazing restaurants at every turn, you’ll enjoy each and every step you take in this winsome *and* walkable Bluegrass town.
  • Greenville. Founded in 1799, Greenville is an idyllic little town located in western Kentucky’s rolling blue hills. Renowned for its family-friendly festivals, historic downtown, and Southern hospitality, Greenville is about as charming as it gets. Grab a bite at Aunt M's Cafe and then visit the Big Twigs, an enchanting outdoor art installment at the nearby Lake Malone State Park.
  • Horse Cave. Horse Cave, Kentucky, is one of those small towns that, at first glance, doesn't look all that unique or extraordinary. But here in Kentucky, we know better than to be fooled by appearances, because some of our state's greatest treasures are literally hidden underground. Located just 15 minutes from *the* Mammoth Cave, this charming little town of 2,400 has its own epic underworld, and it's not only Horse Cave's namesake, but also its defining feature. Because, you see, the cave for which the city is named is located on the south side of Main Street -- literally smack in the center of town. Operated by the American Cave Conservation Association, public tours are offered year-round, and make for a pretty spectacular Kentucky day trip adventure.
  • Maysville. Maysville is peak small-town vibes, with a picture-perfect downtown district offering visitors not only amazing shops and eateries, but also a crash course in Bluegrass history. Truly -- if you are curious about history, you'll find it around every corner in Maysville, with numerous Underground Railroad sites, the National Underground Railroad Museum, the Colonel Charles Young Birthplace Cabin, the Mays Lick Rosenwald School, and, just outside town, the oldest covered bridge in Kentucky.
  • Rabbit Hash is a tiny little town in Kentucky with a very big history and identity. The town's eponymous general store is the heart and soul of the community; a beloved cornerstone since 1831. But it's not just this old-fashioned general store that "makes" the town what it is; Rabbit Hash is also known as known as the Kentucky town with a dog mayor!

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
Mayfield-Graves County Fairgrounds, 1004 KY-121, Mayfield, KY 42066, USA