14 minute read
Food, Bourbon and Horses: A Look Inside Hermitage Farm
As we prepare for the 2021 National Land Conference in Louisville, we take an inside look at the history and revitalization of Hermitage Farm, a success story in farmland preservation situated near the banks of the Ohio River.
Courtesy of Hermitage Farm and Boxcar PR
ust a short drive from downtown Louisville, in Goshen, Kentucky, Hermitage
Farm provides visitors with unique opportunities to connect with seven hundred acres of historic land. Owners Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson have long celebrated and worked to protect Kentucky’s agricultural heritage for future generations to enjoy. The pair values tradition and wishes to pass on the spirit of Kentucky to everyone who visits Hermitage Farm.
Built in 1835, The Main House at Hermitage Farm was owned by the Henshaw Family from Virginia. In 1936, the family sold the land to a famous thoroughbred horse breeder, Warner Jones. In the years following Jones’ death, fellow equestrian Carl Pollard purchased the land and continued operations until Brown and Wilson acquired the farm in 2010. While Hermitage Farm is now a staple of the Bluegrass state, the future of the farm has not always been so certain. According to the United States Department of Agriculture and American Farmland Trust, in the years between 2001 and 2016, nearly 270,000 acres of farmland in Kentucky have been developed or compromised in some way. As Oldham County residents themselves, Brown and Wilson felt a responsibility to protect Hermitage Farm’s storied property from suburban development. The duo also fought to secure a conservation easement so that the grounds remain as active farmland in perpetuity. “Laura Lee and I both grew up on farms and understand firsthand the importance of protecting them for future generations,” said Wilson. “We are committed to simultaneously preserving rural farms and revitalizing cities. We see these goals not in opposition, but as complementary.” Historic Preservation
Brown and Wilson are devoted to maintaining the tradition and sharing the history of Hermitage Farm. While they have updated some features on the farmstead, the integrity of the property remains. The land still produces award-winning racehorses, sustainable produce and everlasting memories. At Hermitage Farm, guests can experience renowned thoroughbred operations, enjoy organic farm-to-table cuisine and taste exclusive local bourbon while exploring the grounds. Tours of The Main House and Garden are available for guests who would like to hear the stories behind the reimagining of the 19th Century farmstead. Along with its adjacent Smokehouse, The Main house is listed in the National Historic Register. Although both have been updated to include present day amenities, their timeless charm has been preserved. Surrounded by stately pin oaks that frame views of lush, green farmland, the property provides a unique and luxurious escape.
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New to Hermitage Farm in 2020 is Barn8, a farm restaurant and bourbon bar. What was once Hermitage Farm’s 8th horse stable is now a beautifully restored barn turned restaurant. Nearby sits one of the property’s three climate-controlled greenhouses that provides much of the restaurant’s ingredients for an authentic fresh from the farm experience. The Barn8 chef works with a local horticulturalist to create seasonal menus that highlight the best produce that Hermitage Farm has to offer. Guests are invited to engage in the process of farm-totable cooking on a tour of the kitchen and greenhouse. During the tour, they will learn about the seasonality of food and the inspiration behind some of Barn8’s most popular dishes. While the menu does contain some staple items, most of the offerings are changed daily for a unique dining experience every time.
The Bourbon Bar & Lounge
Barn8 is home to The Bourbon Bar & Lounge, where guests can experience the one-of-a-kind flavors of bourbons from every Kentucky Bourbon Trail distillery. The bar also features exceptional small-batch selections from unique craft distilleries, vintage options, rare bottles and popular brands from across the Bluegrass and beyond. Hermitage Farm also offers bourbon tastings for connoisseurs and novices alike. Knowledgeable bourbon stewards teach guests about Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage while they enjoy flights of select bourbons and craft their own unique cocktails.
Renowned Artwork Collection
Brown and Wilson are avid art enthusiasts and guests can enjoy their wide-ranging collection of contemporary art on display in the Main House and Smokehouse. They believe that showcasing works from local and global artists allows everyone to gather perspectives from around the world and help us all better see our own place within it. While outdoor exhibits are located throughout the farm, the owners’ collection of art is on a rotating display in the houses and restaurant on the property to provide a unique experience at every visit.
Thoroughbreds
The biggest draw to Hermitage Farm is the thoroughbred nursery where winners of the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, Breeder’s Cup and most every other stakes race have been raised. Tour guides are available to take guests through the barns while discussing the history of horse racing and giving them a close look at some future champions. Sports horse tours are also available, where visitors can see a collection of historic and contemporary carriages. They will also meet highly groomed horses celebrated for their skilled abilities and appearances. For a custom experience, carriage rides are also available by request. Hermitage Farm encompasses all of what makes the Bluegrass state so special. Immersive experiences connect even the most metropolitan guests to their country roots. The history of the property transports you to another place in time while food and art inspire the future. Whether you’re an avid equestrian, an adventurous foodie, a bourbon enthusiast or something in between, Hermitage Farm offers a memorable experience for all.
LANDU: Leading the Industry in Education
LI National has been busy hosting LANDU virtual instructor-led training (VILT) courses throughout 2020, with a total of 20 courses offered. Combined with 10 chapter-led courses throughout the year, RLI’s education outreach extended to over 650 students.
If you are interested in hosting a LANDU course in your area for your chapter, please contact RLI Education Manager Amanda Morrone at amorrone@realtors.org or 312-329-8411 for more information.
LANDU Instructor News
Congratulations to Tim Hadley, ALC, for being approved as a new LANDU instructor. He is now approved to teach Recreational Land Real Estate and Land 101: Fundamentals of Land Brokerage. Tim is an Accredited Land Consultant with Hadley & Associates Brokered by Keller Williams Land in Gladstone, MO. He has been in land sales for seven years. As an approved instructor, Tim looks forward to sharing his experience and help other land agents improve their skills and advance their careers.
Along with teaching Land 101: Fundamentals of Land Brokerage, Raborn Taylor, ALC, is now approved to teach Recreational Land Real Estate.
Visit the LANDU Instructor Center at rliland.com for a list of instructors and for information on becoming an approved LANDU instructor.
2021 LANDU Upcoming Courses
More course offerings are coming soon! For the most up-to-date course calendar, visit rliland.com/education.
January 2021
Agricultural Land Brokerage & Marketing Instructor: Kirk Goble, ALC VILT Online Format
Land Real Estate Site Selection Instructor: Ben Crosby, ALC VILT Online Format February 2021
Transitional Land Real Estate Instructor: Butch Armistead, ALC VILT Online Format
Land Investment Analysis Instructor: Phil McGinnis, ALC VILT Online Format March 2021
Real Estate Mapping Technologies & Techniques Instructor: Steve Roberson VILT Online Format
April 2021
Subdivision Land Development Instructor: Bobby Mink VILT Online Format May 2021
Agricultural Land Brokerage & Marketing Instructor: Kirk Goble, ALC VILT Online Format
SAVE THE DATE FOR LANDU Education Week
June 6-14, 2021 • Murfreesboro, TN
The 2021 LANDU Education Week will be held at the Middle Tennessee Association of REALTORS® in Murfreesboro, TN from June 6-14, 2021. RLI will work with the RLI Tennessee Chapter to host this event. LANDU Education Week offers land professionals the opportunity to network with their peers and greatly enhance their expertise by completing all education requirements needed to earn the Accredited Land Consultant (ALC) Designation in one place, at one time. More details to come.
The REALTORS® Land Institute’s Land Education Foundation (LEF) seeks to provide financial scholarship grants for assistance in land-based education opportunities, including the pursuit of the elite ALC Designation through RLI’s LANDU Education Program.
LEF Scholarships Available
Scholarships of up to $535 are available per person, per year. If you or someone you know might be interested, please download and complete the full scholarship application at rliland.com/LEF.
Benjamin Bogardus Andrew MacVittie Stephanie Gordon Jonathan Kennedy Altimese Dees Dorie Colbert Veal
THANK YOU TO THE 2020 LEF Board of Trustees
Minor Taylor, ALC Fred Hepler, ALC Dan Hatfield, ALC Ray Brownfield, ALC Randy Hertz, ALC John Dean, ALC Chuck Wingert, ALC Johnny McAllister, ALC Flo Sayre, ALC A. Lloyd Thomas Bob Turner, ALC
Special thanks to John Dean, ALC, who concludes his board service in 2020, for his years of dedication to the Land Education Foundation.
THE MAGAZINE OF THE AMERICAN LANDOWNER THE MAGAZINE OF THE AMERICAN LANDOWNER THE MAGAZINE OF THE AMERICAN LANDOWNER THE MAGAZINE OF THE AMERICAN LANDOWNER
“As the nation’s premier land magazine, landowners during challenging times. The The Land Report’s partnership with the REALTORS® Land Institute provides invaluable public recognition of excellence through the annual APEX Awards. The professional expertise of RLI brokers across the country becomes even more vital for “As the nation’s premier land magazine, The Land Report’s partnership with the REALTORS® Land Institute provides invaluable public recognition of excellence through the annual APEX Awards. The professional expertise of RLI brokers across “As the nation’s premier land magazine, The Land Report’s partnership with the REALTORS® Land Institute provides invaluable public recognition of excellence through the annual APEX Awards. The professional expertise of RLI brokers across the country becomes even more vital for “As the nation’s premier land magazine, The Land Report’s partnership with the REALTORS® Land Institute provides invaluable public recognition of excellence through the annual APEX Awards. The professional expertise of RLI brokers across the country becomes even more vital for Land Report and RLI are dedicated to the education and service ethic that keep the land industry thriving as a foundation of our nation’s economy.” landowners during challenging times. The Land Report and RLI are dedicated to the education and service ethic that keep the land industry thriving as a foundation of our nation’s economy.” landowners during challenging times. The Land Report and RLI are dedicated to the education and service ethic that keep the land industry thriving as a foundation of our nation’s economy.” landowners during challenging times. The Land Report and RLI are dedicated to the education and service ethic that keep the land industry thriving as a foundation of our nation’s economy.” the country becomes even more vital for —Dean Saunders, ALC, Saunders Ralston Dantzler —Dean Saunders, ALC, —Dean Saunders, ALC, Saunders Ralston Dantzler —Dean Saunders, ALC, Saunders Ralston Dantzler Saunders Ralston Dantzler
“RLI, The Land Report, and our industry production is year to year, a program such as is built on relationships, professional knowledge, integrity, and capability. Whether you are a top producer at KW, Dean Saunders, or an independent brokerage, all of the featured professionals that are part of the APEX Awards are neighborhood players, building and bringing communities together. I feel very fortunate to be an active participant in RLI and The Land Report’s APEX Awards since its inception; winning the National Top Producer one year to ‘thank you for playing’ the next year. No matter what our individual “RLI, The Land Report, and our industry is built on relationships, professional knowledge, integrity, and capability. Whether you are a top producer at KW, Dean Saunders, or an independent brokerage, all of the featured professionals that are part of the APEX Awards are neighborhood players, building and bringing communities together. I feel very fortunate to be an active participant in RLI and The Land Report’s APEX Awards since its inception; winning the National Top Producer one year to ‘thank you “RLI, The Land Report, and our industry is built on relationships, professional knowledge, integrity, and capability. Whether you are a top producer at KW, Dean Saunders, or an independent brokerage, all of the featured professionals that are part of the APEX Awards are neighborhood players, building and bringing communities together. I feel very fortunate to be an active participant in RLI and The Land Report’s APEX Awards since its inception; winning the National Top Producer one year to ‘thank you for playing’ the next year. No matter what our individual “RLI, The Land Report, and our industry is built on relationships, professional knowledge, integrity, and capability. Whether you are a top producer at KW, Dean Saunders, or an independent brokerage, all of the featured professionals that are part of the APEX Awards are neighborhood players, building and bringing communities together. I feel very fortunate to be an active participant in RLI and The Land Report’s APEX Awards since its inception; winning the National Top Producer one year to ‘thank you for playing’ the next year. No matter what our individual the APEX Awards helps bring national focus on the huge impact our industry brings to our regions and the US economy. The APEX Award Program gives each of us an opportunity to define, encourage and appreciate the hard work and stunning accomplishments of what are considered ‘True Land Professionals.’ Set your goals, define your markets, encourage success, make an impact, and be a part of APEX.” production is year to year, a program such as the APEX Awards helps bring national focus on the huge impact our industry brings to our regions and the US economy. The APEX Award Program gives each of us an opportunity to define, encourage and appreciate the hard work and stunning accomplishments of what are considered ‘True Land Professionals.’ Set your goals, define your markets, encourage success, make an impact, and be a part of APEX.” production is year to year, a program such as the APEX Awards helps bring national focus on the huge impact our industry brings to our regions and the US economy. The APEX Award Program gives each of us an opportunity to define, encourage and appreciate the hard work and stunning accomplishments of what are considered ‘True Land Professionals.’ Set your goals, define your markets, encourage success, make an impact, and be a part of APEX.” production is year to year, a program such as the APEX Awards helps bring national focus on the huge impact our industry brings to our regions and the US economy. The APEX Award Program gives each of us an opportunity to define, encourage and appreciate the hard work and stunning accomplishments of what are considered ‘True Land Professionals.’ Set your goals, define your markets, encourage success, make an impact, and be a part of APEX.” for playing’ the next year. No matter what our individual — Dan Murphy, ALC, M4 Ranch Group — Dan Murphy, ALC, M4 Ranch Group — Dan Murphy, ALC, M4 Ranch Group — Dan Murphy, ALC, M4 Ranch Group
“Support shown by The Land Report professionals. The Land Report continues for RLI through the years has been tremendous! Sponsoring the APEX Awards is a perfect example of the strategic alliance between two extremely important partners for land “Support shown by The Land Report for RLI through the years has been tremendous! Sponsoring the APEX Awards is a perfect example of the strategic alliance between two “Support shown by The Land Report for RLI through the years has been tremendous! Sponsoring the APEX Awards is a perfect example of the strategic alliance between two extremely important partners for land “Support shown by The Land Report for RLI through the years has been tremendous! Sponsoring the APEX Awards is a perfect example of the strategic alliance between two extremely important partners for land to be ambitious and create both value and insight for every land professional in the business.” professionals. The Land Report continues to be ambitious and create both value and insight for every land professional in the business.” professionals. The Land Report continues to be ambitious and create both value and insight for every land professional in the business.” professionals. The Land Report continues to be ambitious and create both value and insight for every land professional in the business.” extremely important partners for land — Dan Ward, ALC, Legendary Land Co. — Dan Ward, ALC, Legendary Land Co. — Dan Ward, ALC, Legendary Land Co. — Dan Ward, ALC, Legendary Land Co.
