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Shelby County, Kentucky, may be best known for its scenic farmland, bourbon, and Saddlebred horse farms—but just beneath the surface lies a rich tapestry of stories waiting to be discovered. In a recent episode of Kentucky Hidden Wonders, hosts Janette Marson and Mason Warren welcomed Deputy Judge Executive Jon Park to shed light on the county’s lesser-known landmarks and the community spirit that keeps its history alive.
Park brings a unique perspective to public service. Raised near Abraham Lincoln’s home in Springfield, Illinois, he grew up immersed in history and civic duty. His career path—from ministry to healthcare to local government—has always centered on serving others. “This is still a mission field,” Park shared, describing his work as Deputy Judge Executive. “The difference is, now it’s civic instead of spiritual.”
One of the most poignant projects Park discussed was the creation of the Gold Star Families Memorial Monument in Veterans Park. Inspired by Medal of Honor recipient Woody Williams, the monument honors families who have lost loved ones in military service. What sets it apart? The project was funded entirely by the local community. Businesses and residents donated time, money, and materials—making it a true testament to Shelby County’s generous spirit.
But the project also unearthed a literal hidden wonder. Crews discovered what looked like a child’s casket buried in the park during site preparations. Thankfully, it was a long-lost time capsule, separated from its original plaque and forgotten over time. The discovery served as a potent reminder that history is often buried right beneath our feet.
The episode also explored another cornerstone of Shelby County history: the 1912 courthouse, the fourth in the county’s history. This architectural gem has hosted pivotal moments—including a 1920s speech by British suffragist Ethel Snowden, which drew such a crowd that local churches closed for the occasion. During recent renovations, workers uncovered a tunnel beneath the courthouse steps—once used to transport prisoners to the jail a block and a half away. It's a small but fascinating glimpse into the logistics of the past.
According to Park, what makes Shelby County truly special isn’t just its landmarks—it’s the people. He affectionately refers to it as “Mayberry,” a place where neighbors support one another, and collaboration is the norm. That community-first mindset is evident in the close working relationships between local government, the cities of Shelbyville and Simpsonville, the Main Street program, and the tourism office.
Shelby County is also home to a slice of fried chicken history. While Corbin, Kentucky, may be the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken, it was here that Colonel Harland Sanders and his wife, Claudia, settled in the 1950s. Their home and restaurant still stand today, with Claudia Sanders Dinner House continuing to serve the Colonel’s famous recipe in a setting steeped in local history.
Preserving these treasures hasn’t always been easy. The old stone jail and jailer’s house, undergoing restoration through a federal Brownfield grant, present challenges like lead paint and asbestos remediation. Nevertheless, the county remains committed to the long process because honoring the past is worth the effort.
Whether you're a lifelong resident or first-time visitor, Shelby County offers more than meets the eye. From the reverent quiet of the Gold Star Families Memorial to the tunnels beneath the courthouse, every corner holds a story. And through conversations like this one on Kentucky Hidden Wonders, those stories are finally getting the spotlight they deserve.
