If you're from Kentucky, aka the “Bluegrass State”, you probably know this state for horse racing, bourbon, the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Fried Chicken, and more. BUT did you know we also have some pretty weird town names with some pretty unique history?
Well, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 weirdest town names in Kentucky for you to explore or to just read for a laugh. What’s in a name? Read on to find out.
1. Rabbit Hash, Kentucky
If you’re a sucker for small historic towns, Rabbit Hash should be at the top of your list. Known for their historic Rabbit Hash General Store, this little community in Boone County, Kentucky has a population of only 315 residents … AND a pit bull canine as their mayor.
Located on the Ohio River, Rabbit Hash used to be named Cartlon, but mail kept getting mixed up with the nearby town Carrollton. It is said that in the mid-1800s, townsfolk were discussing what they were serving for Christmas when one man said Rabbit Hash - eventually, this name ended up sticking.
Rabbit Hash is a quick drive from Cincinnati or Louisville so if you’re looking for a quick day trip, this is the perfect town to explore.
2. Sugartit, Kentucky
You’re probably wondering how this town came into its funny name. Well, let’s start with what a sugar tit actually is - sugar tit is an old folk name for a baby pacifier made out of sugar or honey and wrapped in a cloth or handkerchief. Formerly known as Pleasant Ridge and later as Gunpowder, it is said that during winter months, local men would go to the general store and come back to their wives saying they “had to have a sugar tit at the store” - which led to the new town name.
Although it never became an incorporated town, Sugartit has several businesses and amenities today including fast food restaurants, banks, apartments, a bank, a pub, and a gas station.
3. Big Beaver Lick, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Beaver Lick Trading Post Facebook
Apparently, Boone County is known for having weird town names because Beaverlick is also in the same county as Rabbit Hash and Sugartit! Established as a fur trading site between 1780 - 1820, Big Beaver Lick was originally known as Beaverlick until the ~50 locals renamed it because of the "licks," or natural salt and mineral deposits that animals lick for vitamins.
Back in the day, Big Beaver Lick had a general store, two blacksmiths, a carriage maker, two physicians, a hotel, a flour mill, a millinery shop and three churches. When the community eventually dwindled, the town was left with just historic homes, churches, and cemeteries.
4. Bachelor’s Rest, Kentucky
Although this is not where the show The Bachelor is filmed, this community was established in Pendleton County, Kentucky for bachelors to congregate and socialize at their local county store.
Not much is in Bachelor’s Rest aside from a few houses, however, it is within a 50 mile radius from Cincinnati, OH.
5. Beaver Dam, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Wikipedia, Brian Stansberry
When you think of Beaver Dam, you’re probably thinking about dams actually built by beavers but this is actually a city in Ohio County, Kentucky. With a population of over 3,500 residents, one would think it is a relatively large town, however, it only has a total area of about 3 square miles.
Known as the largest city in Ohio County, if you plan to visit one of Beaver Dam’s park, downtown shops, or museums, make sure you pick up a t-shirt to rep the city.
6. Broad Bottom, Kentucky
Although we aren’t talking about anyone’s actual behind, we are talking about the town of Broad Bottom - an unincorporated community in Pike County, Kentucky. This little town got its name from its location in a “low-lying” area next to Levisa Fork, also known as Levisa Fork River.
7. Hazard, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
Located in Perry County, Kentucky, Hazard became a major mining center in the 1920s. Now every year in September, the town celebrates Hazard’s coal heritage with the Black Gold Festival in downtown Hazard. It is such a well-known event that even cast members from The Dukes of Hazzard have visited the Black Fold Festival!
Make sure you grab a Hazard t-shirt before you visit!
8. Fox Chase, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Bullitt County History Museum
According to The Bullitt County History Museum, Fox Chase got its unique name from the land owner, Ms. Chase and the red foxes that frequented their farm. It is said that the Chase family would also invite friends out for fox hunts.
This little city along the Ohio River was unincorporated until 1983 and has a tiny population of only about 600 residents. Imagine going to school and knowing almost everyone in town!
9. Dwarf, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Wikipedia, Coal Town Guy
This “small” town (pun intended), is only 2 hours southeast of Lexington and was named after Jeremiah Combs, whose nickname was "Short Jerry.”
Dwarf also sits 930 feet above sea level and only has 119 residents.
10. Big Bone, Kentucky
Photo Credit: Wikipedia, Mattguyver
You’re probably giggling at this weird town name but Big Bone (aka Big Bone Lick) is known for its findings of prehistoric fossils. Big Bone got its name because big bones were found there in the 1700s, which included mammoths and mastadons.
If you love fossils and its history, you’ll definitely need to visit Big Bone Lick State Park which has museum exhibits, trails for hiking, picnicking, and more. Check out this site for more info on things to do at the Big Bone Lick State Park.