
Kentucky’s Oldest Operating Business Is Older Than Kentucky Itself
On any number of occasions, I've included mentions of Kentucky roads or bridges that offer magnificent views. I'm a road trip guy, and scenic drives are my jam. If there's one I haven't seen, I will make sure to get on it.
The Oldest Operating Business in Kentucky
But the Commonwealth also has its fair share of beautiful waterways, and it doesn't take a genius to realize how amazing the scenery is or can be from THAT point of view. Obviously, if you take any kind of river cruise in the Bluegrass State you'll be met with photo opportunity after photo opportunity. But if you're interested in mixing in some history, a ride aboard the Valley View Ferry will be right up your alley...even if you ARE on a river. It is the oldest operating business in Kentucky.
The History of the Valley View Ferry
Take a drive down Tates Creek Road in Lexington and you'll eventually arrive at the confluence of the creek and the Kentucky River. At that point, you and your vehicle can board the historic Valley View Ferry; it's been in operation since before Kentucky became the 15th state in 1792. When you get there, you'll see what marks its historical significance:
The oldest continuous business of record in Ky. On land acquired by John Craig in 1780 through a military warrant, the Virginia Assembly granted a perpetual and irrevocable franchise to establish ferry in 1785. Ferry is presently named for the location in picturesque Valley View community.
Of course, back then, they were transporting wagons, not F-250s and Hummers. Anyway, i'll leave you with the following:
Always examine the history of any location you're visiting because it WILL have history, and always read those historical markers. They're there because of the first part of that sentence.
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