The Old Talbott Tavern

The Old Talbott Tavern has provided shelter, food, and drink to Kentucky travelers since the late 1700’s. Think nice reputable place from the 1700’s contains a bed and breakfast, a restaurant, and a Bourbon Bar. It is said by the Dry-Stone Masonry Institute of America that “The Talbott Tavern is a uniquely well-crafted early American stone building and an extremely rare example of Flemish bond stonework. We are in deed fortunate to have this historic inn illustrating the excellent craftsmanship of the settlement period.”  The Tavern is said to be the oldest western stagecoach stop in America and it is a wonderful place to visit and see the history.

It is said that many prominent historical figures have stayed at the Inn. These figures include, Abraham Lincoln who stayed here with his family as a young boy, Gen. George Rogers Clark, Daniel Boone, and the exiled French King Louis Phillipe and his entourage who stayed there and even painted the murals on the upstairs walls. When going upstairs you will even see a room with noticeable bullet holes in the faded paintings and it is legend that Jesse James was the one who shot them.

The Old Talbott Tavern also contains the world’s oldest Bourbon Bar. Historical Figures such as T.R. Beam, Jim Beams brother, owned and operated the Tavern at one time. T.R. later sold it to Tom Moore Distillery, who also owned and operated the Talbott Tavern.

The Old Talbott Tavern is a wonderful place to visit and to experience the History of our small town. I think it is very interesting to go and visit on one of Bardstown’s Famous Ghost Tours. Who knows it is even rumored that Jesse James sometime haunts the halls of the Tavern at night. It is a great place to visit and everyone should have the opportunity to go. I hope you have a great time when you visit whether it is to eat lunch or one the ghost tour, Have Fun!!!