There is a lot of here say that goes on about Kentucky.  People here will say one thing, while people in other states may or may not agree. The Bluegrass State has an interesting reputation based on the obvious, like horse racing. However, there is more to our Thoroughbred state than some people may realize. Most of it we can be proud of. A thing or two, we just accept happens, and move forward. In fact, you’ll find that there are quite a few interesting facts about Kentucky, including Kentucky-made inventions, famous people, and iconic places!

Here are 16 things most people don’t know about Kentucky:

1. Duncan Hines

Today’s boxed confectionaries started as a real person in Bowling Green. These delicious baked goods are something that we can be real proud of! Who doesn’t love a good cake?

2. Confederate

Confederate troops occupied this Union capital during the war, making it the only Union capital occupied by enemy forces. This is interesting Kentucky trivia that you’ll want to keep in your back pocket!

3. Enamel Tub

The world's very first tub of this type was created in Louisville in 1856. Now it is a staple inside homes all throughout the world. It’s truly an amazing creation.

4. Coal Mine Fire

Ironically, this county is home to the Lost Mountain Coal Mine, abandoned over 40 years due to underground coal fires. Black plumes of smoke still flow from the fires to this day. One of those weird things about living in Kentucky is seeing fires that haven’t burned out in over 40 years!

5. Man O War

Possibly the most famous race horse in Kentucky, who never ran a Kentucky race. Another amazing and unusual fact.

6. Salt Well

The very first recognized commercial oil well was built in PA, circa 1859. However, salt wells along the Ohio were drilled via cable. One of these was near Burkesville and produced both natural gas and oil in 1828. It was then sold as an elixir or illuminating oils. In all fairness… a well in OH did it in 1814. You can definitely say that Kentucky residents were ahead of their time!

7. Cathedral Basilica of Assumption

This ancient temple in Covington has a 67’ by 24" hand blown glass image of Ephesus, and is the largest hand blown stained glass window in the world. It’s an amazing and wonderful little fact, and something you need to see in person to really take it all in.

8. Bourbon County

Ironically, this amber elixir was first distilled in Bourbon County. And now bourbon has a world class following, and is enjoyed all around the planet!

9. Governor

The Kentucky Governor when sworn into office, must swear he/she has never fought a duel with a deadly weapon. It’s comforting to know that our governor has not fought a duel with a deadly weapon. At least not yet!

10. Union Monument

Vanceburg has the only Union Civil War shrine south of the Ohio River. Just another interesting fact about living in Kentucky.

11. Kentucky Derby

The longest consistently running horse race in the US. This horse race in famous, rivaling bourbon as the thing Kentucky is most well known for!

12. Red Corvette

The first red Corvette was made in Bowling Green. Now this is one reason why living in Kentucky is so fantastic. We’re proud to brag that gorgeous cars are from our awesome state!

13. Old Louisville

This beautifully preserved Victorian Era neighborhood is the largest, most well preserved section of Victorian architecture in the world. If you have a chance, take a tour and admire some of this classic architecture.

14. Richmond

This Kentucky city was almost our nation’s capital. DC took the title because of its port access. It’s interesting to think how history would look different if Richmond was the country’s capital!

15. Thunder Over Louisville

This is the biggest fireworks display in the US. People come from all over the country to get a first hand glimpse at this spectacular fireworks show!

16. Bourbon

Over 7000 liters of Bourbon are consumed during the Kentucky Derby Festival. This doesn’t include the amount of Bourbon consumed otherwise. Bourbon is a staple in our great state, and rightly so. And it’s so delicious the rest of the country has jumped on board, too!

Did you know all of these interesting facts about Kentucky? Which one was your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

The Bluegrass State has a very colorful and entertaining history, with a few old traditions still honored today, even in politics. We have stuck to the southern code, for the most part.  If you know of any other interesting, or little known facts about Kentucky, feel free to comment.

Looking for more great reasons why you should love Kentucky? Well Here Are 12 Reasons Why You Should Always Be Proud To Be From Kentucky!