General Merchandise Store - Rabbit Hash General Store in Kentucky

Brief History of Rabbit Hash

The town's name, "Rabbit Hash" is said to have originated during the flood of 1847 when the abundant local rabbit population was driven to higher ground and became a food staple in a special stew called "hash." Little documented history of Rabbit Hash actually survives, primarily because devastating Ohio River floods in 1884, 1913 and 1937 deluged the little town and ruined many records.

The Rabbit Hash General Store was completely submerged during the 1937 flood that crested at an unheard of 79.9 feet. There is still mud in the store's attic crawl space from the historic 1937 flood, and the only reason it has survived the river's often angry waters is that it is anchored securely to the ground by a series of iron rods which run through the entire structure. Much of the rest of Rabbit Hash was not so fortunate during the historic flood. Several residences, outbuildings, the creamery, a tobacco warehouse and the blacksmith shop were washed away in 1937.

The Old Hashienda is Closed

I can hear spring whispering down here on the banks of the Ohio, and I feel Mother Nature waking up all the trees in her blustery way. It won’t be long now before we’re all gathering in Rabbit Hash again to soak up the sunshine, the laughter, and the camaraderie. My eyes are fixed on that big old river, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed that she stays in her banks through another rainy spring.

Summertime brings folks to Rabbit Hash in droves, and there’s nothing quite like the moment when the motorcycles, tourists, and locals drift home and peace settles over the town like a blanket of snow. For the last 15 years, The Old Hashienda has been part of that quiet magic. Recently, the county sent word that I must close my little inn, and The Old Hashienda will no longer be part of that nightly rhythm. It makes me sad. I’ve always believed Rabbit Hash and all its charm should be shared with those who long for it. I know I do. There’s no greater feeling than waking up to the river and watching our little town come to life.

I’ve cherished every moment of sharing this rustic place—seeing people on the porch swing, listening to the river flow by, watching them fall in love with Rabbit Hash the way I did. I will miss that deeply. But my welcome to Rabbit Hash remains as warm as ever. This town still has its way of wrapping people up in that feeling of “home,” and I hope you’ll continue to come enjoy all the magic it has to offer.