Elkton, Kentucky may be a small dot on the map, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in character. We pulled into the picturesque town square and I immediately spotted L& N Soda Fountain. It was so reminiscent of the classic soda fountains I had seen in movies and TV shows from the past that I was thrilled to get to try a meal. The place was packed when we arrived , always a good sign.
I had a hard time choosing from the menu. I admit I really wanted one of their desserts and was afraid I would be full after a meal, but I finally settled on their Chili cheese dog with a heaping side of potato salad. It was delicious and unfortunately, I was too full for dessert. I am still wishing I had room for one of their sundaes!
After a hearty meal we drove to the Jefferson Davis Historic Site, ran by the Kentucky State Park System, located in nearby Fairview, Kentucky. I was unsure what to expect, but the massive 351-foot obelisk erected in his honor, the second largest in America, was a surprise. The obelisk could be seen for miles in the distance. I wish I had been able to get a picture, but the up close view didn’t do it justice. Inside we were greeted by Ron Synder, the park manager and expert historian, who gave us an overview of Jefferson Davis’ life and career.
Ron’s descriptions captured not only our attention, but fellow patrons as well, who stopped by to listen. Why were my history teachers not this interesting? Although Jefferson Davis was born on this site, his family moved to Georgia when he was young. While most people think of Jefferson Davis as the president of the confederacy, he was known as a reluctant secessionist. He had been the Secretary of War for the United States and actually built and strengthened the Union Army . He was quite a character in his younger years at West Point and during his army career! Included in the museum are exhibits detailing Jefferson Davis’ life before, during and after the Civil War. There is also an exhibit featuring the story of Kentucky’s Orphan Brigade. Since Kentucky has declared neutrality, the original soldiers who wanted to fight for the Confederacy had to go to Tennessee to join the army. These brigades, along with others raised at Bowling Green, were nicknamed the Orphan Brigade.
While Jefferson Davis historic site has a lovely park and grounds that are open year round, the museum is only open from April 3rd until November 15th. From November 16th until March 31st the museum is open by appointment only and groups must give 48 hours notice in advance. A combination Museum and Monument tour is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages four to twelve.
If you are in the mood for history and good food, make a detour through Elkton, Kentucky.
That meal looked delicious. I’ve never been there before but seeing your posts makes me want to pay it a visit.
This sounds like a fun and interesting place to visit. I have never been to Kentucky but if I do I will add this my list.
This looks like an amazing place, the food looks absolutely delicious!
I’ve never been to Kentucky but my brother used to date a girl from there and she always told me it is a nice place to visit. I’ll have to add it to my bucket list of places to see.
If i am ever in Elkton Kentucky i will definitely check it out. The food looks amazing. Thanks for sharing.
That mashed potato salad looks absolutely delicious. Great find.
I love that vintage restaurant photo! Looks like a great getaway!
I love the Soda Fountain. It’s so fantastic. I love those kinds of places and makes me wish I lived in the times when that was the norm. Thanks for sharing 🙂
The diner looks so lovely. I love food in small town diners like that. I would love to visit Kentucky some day and will keep this in mind. I am glad you were able to find Ron Synder and take advantage of his passion for history.
Looks like they also excel in good food:)
Thanks for sharing the pics.
I have found that to be true of most small towns. They are small but have tons of character! I love small towns!
Wow – a blast from the past! I would love to go to the Soda Fountain. It’s like being back in the 60s. 🙂
If I am ever that way I would be sure to check them out. I can surely understand not being able to choose from their menu because it sounds like everything sounded delicious and even your choice looks super good to eat.
Looks like a lot fun! Hubby and I are always looking for new places to add to you “Weekend Getaway” list!
Bummer about the dessert – I always make sure to leave room for dessert 😉 Sounds like a great place to visit.