This Classic Kentucky General Store Is About To Reopen And We Couldn't Be Happier
By Andrea Limke|Published March 28, 2017
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
The true heart of Kentucky has been shown this past year, following a devastating fire that destroyed the historic Rabbit Hash General Store, located in Rabbit Hash, Kentucky. The community has rallied together—locals, visitors, and companies—to restore this landmark into what it once was, and it’s time for the grand re-opening.
The town of Rabbit Hash Kentucky is a recognized state treasure, as a living example of an era that has long past. The river town is filled with history and its hallmark is the General Store, which has been in action since 1831.
Sadly, on February 13, 2016, one of the coldest nights of the year, the store caught fire due to an old cooler. The fire completely devastated the store—and the locals and visitors of this Kentucky time capsule.
The city and its surrounding area immediately went into action to come together and restore their beloved general store. The store has been a gathering place for years and its charm has turned it into a tourist destination. Along with basic groceries, the store also sells antiques, gifts and plays host to many events.
Although the General Store withstood several floods over the years, the fire in 2016 caused major destruction. The community rallied, raising more than $300,000 and many local companies donated supplies and manpower to restore it to what it once was. This is an image of the inside of the store, right after the fire.
And this is the restored interior today. Contractors and craftsmen have tirelessly worked to replicate the original store, keeping and repurposing as much as possible. Original beams from the 1800s will now be benches for visitors and entertainers to use during their time spent in Rabbit Hash.
It was important to all of those involved to restore the building, not replace it. The store and the town hold a special place in the hearts of many and with its place on the historic National Register, it was crucial to keep it authentic.
In just over a year since the fire, the Rabbit Hash General Store is set to reopen on April 1st. They've planned a big celebration to recognize those who have worked so hard to bring this Kentucky treasure back to life. Locals and visitors alike will go back to enjoying the comradery and charm of their General Store— characteristics that never left this small Kentucky town and were only made stronger in the wake of tragedy.
Have you been to historic Rabbit Hash? Do you have stories of your time spent at the General Store? Share them with us in the comments below! Rabbit Hash General Store can be found at 10021 Lower River Road Rabbit Hash, KY 41005.
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