So many small towns in America are named after other places – and Paris is no different. According to Google there are 23 towns and cities in America called Paris, but the one in Kentucky is one of the nicer ones.
This town was originally called Bourbontown because it is the county seat of Bourbon County (more on that later), but was renamed to Paris as a thank you to France’s contribution during the Revolutionary War.
They have a small Eiffel Tower next to the Visitor Center/Farmers Market.
The town itself is very well preserved, as there is a lot of money in the area from the thoroughbred farms (more on this later as well).
Horse Racing is a recurring theme throughout all of Central Kentucky.
The pots along the street for flowers and bushes are re purposed horse troughs.
Hollywood has a walk of fame – but so does Paris – with horseshoes for the great ones – including the greatest – Secretariat.
Most of the downtown area buildings are 100 years old and in good condition.
The Duncan Tavern is the oldest building in town – dating from 1788.
The highlight though is the Bourbon County Courthouse. Completed in 1902 it is spectacular.
From the mosaics in the floors….
To another horse racing tribute.
The fantastic view of the dome from below.
Much of the ironwork came from nearby Maysville.
Great care has been given in the upkeep of the courthouse. We were lucky enough that on this Saturday morning it was open for absentee voting – and the Boubon County Clerk of Courts Richard Eads gave us a detailed history of the building, taking time out of his busy day for us.
The ceiling of the courtroom has a mural of Lady Justice.
But with that it was time to head out of town….
RDZ Photography 