Word of mouth still reigns as the most trustworthy recommendation for a movie, hair stylist, piano teacher etc, but organic reviews are a pretty close second. As a Tourism Director I am often combing through a mess of bot generated reviews to see if I can figure out whats going on with a locations wins or losses. Every once in a while I strike gold, and today, I did! I stumbled upon the Trip Advisor reviews of the sweet little Overlook Event Center at the Edgewater Resort. I know personally that Amy (the Edgewater Manager) is awesome. She is a great local advocate, super community oriented, organized, straight-forward and such a force for good, but you always wonder if it gets noticed. Well, girl, it does. Cheers to Amy and her events at the Overlook. I’m so proud to work with you in Spencer County and so proud to show off your reviews to anyone wanting to plan their special events here too.

Hugs,

The Taylorsville Marina is open! Usually open from May to October, we’ve had a LOT of time planning for boating excursions. And I mean A LOT! So of course we used our handy Pinterest board to get organized. Its the best way to make sure all mixers get packed! Right?

Enjoy our fun plans and join in! (Click image below.)

See you on the water!

A big event is such a joyful but STRESSFUL time! Let us help you keep it all focused on the joy. We maintain a directory of creative professionals in Spencer County so you don’t have to worry about traffic holding up your videographer! We all love to “shop local”, so why not “plan local” too? Need any additional help, email us!

Here you go!

Congratulations on your celebration!

A Forgotten Landmark with a Lasting Legacy

Tucked into the rolling hills and river bends of Spencer County, Kentucky, the Van Dycke Mill once stood as a vital part of Taylorsville’s agricultural heartbeat.

Just imagine…

Nestled in a lush, green valley, the historic Van Dycke Mill stands proudly with its weathered wooden exterior, the "Van Dycke Mill" sign weathered but legible above the entrance. A large waterwheel turns steadily, powered by a clear stream that cascades over a small stone bridge, its gentle splash echoing through the serene landscape. Rolling hills stretch into the distance, framed by dense trees, while a wooden fence encloses the scene, dotted with barrels and a horse-drawn cart waiting patiently nearby. Farmers and women, their barrels and grain bags in tow, gather in small groups, socializing and sharing laughter as they await their turn to have their grain milled. Bathed in soft, warm sunlight, the mill exudes a timeless charm, whispering stories of a bygone era.

Though the mill itself has vanished from the landscape, its name and legacy continue to echo through local lore and geography.

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🕰️ A Glimpse into the Past

Established in the 19th century, the Van Dyke Mill—sometimes spelled Van Dycke—likely served as a grist mill, grinding grain for local farmers in a region deeply rooted in agriculture. Mills like this were essential to rural communities, acting as both economic engines and social gathering points.

Today, the mill’s memory lives on in Van Dyke Mill Road, a quiet rural lane that hints at the site’s former importance. Though the famous drawings of the mill live on, we wanted to reimagine what it may have looked like in its prime. We took the liberty of asking AI what the mill might have looked like and had some fun with the results…

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🔍 So What Happened to the Mill?

The exact fate of the Van Dyke Mill remains a mystery. The home of the Van Dyke family remains but how could such an important piece of history just disappear? Like many early mills, it may have succumbed to:

• Technological changes in milling
• Shifting trade routes and transportation patterns
• Recurring floods, which plagued the area until the construction of a flood wall in 1948

No physical structure remains, and few records detail its closure—making it a tantalizing subject for local historians and curious visitors alike. Rumor has it that its fabled mill-stone lives at another historic property in Spencer County.

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🗂️ Preserving the Past

Fortunately, the story doesn’t end there. The Filson Historical Society has cataloged the Van Dyke Mill in its digital archives, offering a potential treasure trove of photographs, maps, and documents for those eager to learn more.

🔗 Explore the Filson Historical Society’s entry on Van Dyke Mill

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🧭 Why It Matters

The Van Dyke Mill is more than a lost building—it’s a symbol of the county’s resilience and rural heritage. Preserving its story helps us understand the rhythms of life in 19th-century Kentucky and the forces that shaped small-town America.

Keep in touch for more history!

Spencer County: The Gourd and Flower Capital of the Bluegrass
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky’s rolling hills, Spencer County is where flowers bloom brighter, gourds grow bigger, and every visit feels like a homecoming. Known as the Gourd and Flower Capital of the Bluegrass, this charming county is a haven for gardeners, flower lovers, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of rural life.

I still remember my first visit to Bountiful Blooms Farm. It was a warm June morning, and the fields were alive with color—poppies stretching toward the sky, zinnias dancing in the breeze. I joined a bouquet-making class, and by the end of it, I was laughing with strangers-turned-friends, hands full of petals and heart full of joy. That bouquet sat on my table for 2  weeks, and the memory has lasted eve longer.

Must-Visit Floral & Garden Destinations

• Bountiful Blooms Farm
  U-Pic Flowers and bouquet classes make this a hands-on floral paradise.
  🌐 www.bountifulbloomsfarm.com
  💬 “It’s more than a flower farm—it’s a place of peace, joy, and connection. Every visit feels like therapy.”
• Chickapoo Farms
  A floral powerhouse offering U-Pic Flowers, wholesale bareroot plants, and event floristry.
  🌐 www.chickapoofarm.com
  💬 “Watching the sunset from the flower field was magical. The animals, the flowers, the peace—it’s a dream.”
• Flowers der Bauernhof
  A unique CSA and florist offering seasonal, non-traditional arrangements.
  📧 flowersderbauernhof@gmail.com
  💬 “Their bouquet subscription is the highlight of my month—always fresh, always stunning.”
• Lavender Pickle Farm LLC
  Located next to the Taylorsville Post Office, this local favorite offers a rotating selection of seasonal plants and flowers.
  💬 “They always have something fresh and beautiful—perfect for sprucing up the porch or gifting a friend.”
• Little Mount Lavender
  Rooted in the hills of Spencer County, this farm specializes in lavender cultivation and handcrafted wellness products. Their Simpsonville location features a boutique gift shop and a French-inspired café offering dishes like Poulet aux Herbes de Provence and Lavender Lemon Cake.
  📍 Farm: Spencer County, KY
  📍 Café & Boutique: 6905 Shelbyville Rd, Simpsonville, KY
  🌐 littlemountlavender.com
  💬 “We came for the lavender, stayed for the café, and left with gifts for everyone. It’s like a little piece of Provence in Kentucky.”
• P E T A L S on Plum
  A bouquet bar, event florist, and beloved vendor at the Taylorsville Farmers Market.
  💬 “Their flowers are always the first to sell out at the market—fresh, fun, and full of personality!”
• Taylorsville Farmers Market
  Held every Saturday from April 12 through October 26, 2025, from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM at 751 Taylorsville Road, next to Fresh Take Market in Taylorsville.
  📱 Facebook: @TaylorsvilleFarmersMarket
  💬 “It’s the heartbeat of the community—flowers, gourds, jams, and friendly faces every weekend.”
• Twin M Nursery
  A go-to for landscaping inspiration and floral finds.
  🔍 Yelp: Twin-M-Nursery
  💬 “Great selection, great prices, and the staff really knows their stuff. My garden has never looked better!”

Gourd Culture in Spencer County
No visit to Spencer County is complete without celebrating its gourd heritage! Stop by The Red Scooter in downtown Taylorsville, where dried gourds are always on sale—perfect for crafting, decorating, or gifting.

And don’t miss the annual Taylorsville Main Street – Gourd Festival, part of the Spring celebration. This beloved event honors traditional gourdcraft, nature, and gardening with local artisans, workshops, and family-friendly fun. It’s a true showcase of Spencer County’s creative spirit and agricultural pride.

Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re picking your own bouquet, shopping for the perfect gourd, or simply soaking in the scenery, Spencer County offers a slice of Kentucky that’s as colorful as it is welcoming.

See you soon!

Beneath the tranquil surface of Taylorsville Lake lies the ghost of a once-thriving Kentucky
community—Van Buren, a small unincorporated town that now lives on only in memory, history books,
and the ripples of the Salt River.

A Town with Deep Roots
Located about 15 miles from Taylorsville, Van Buren was a quiet rural town with homes, a general
store, and a Church of Christ that served as the heart of the community. Though small, it was a place
where families farmed, worshipped, and gathered for generations.

The Flood That Changed Everything
In 1974, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began construction on what would become Taylorsville
Lake, a man-made reservoir designed for flood control, water supply, and recreation. As part of the
project, the entire town of Van Buren was dismantled and relocated to higher ground.
– Homes and the general store were moved.
– The Church of Christ, however, became stuck on a muddy hill and was ultimately abandoned.
– Graves from the town cemetery were respectfully relocated to Valley Cemetery on Mt. Washington
Road.
By 1983, the dam was completed, and the Salt River was flooded—submerging Van Buren forever
beneath the lake’s 3,050 acres of water.

Echoes of the Past
Though the town is gone, its legacy lives on. Some of the relocated families still reside in Spencer
County, and stories of Van Buren are passed down through generations. The lake itself has become a
vital part of the local economy, drawing anglers, boaters, and nature lovers from across the region.

A Tribute in Timber: Van Buren Village
Just a few miles away in Anderson County, a private historic site called Van Buren Village pays tribute
to Kentucky’s rural past. Created by Dr. Jerry Phelps, this recreated 1850s village features:
– Authentic log cabins rescued from across the state
– A country store and apothecary filled with period items
– A vision of what life in Van Buren might have looked like before the flood
Though not open to the public, Van Buren Village stands as a quiet homage to the lives once lived
along the Salt River.
WEKU Feature on Van Buren Village: https://www.weku.org/off-the-beaten-path-with-sam-dick/2022-1
0-27/van-buren-village-anderson-county-log-cabins-hidden-from-public-view-document-kentuckys-history
Remembering Van Buren in Images
Though the town of Van Buren now rests beneath Taylorsville Lake, its memory lives on through
photos, reconstructions, and digital archives:
– Vintage Photos of Van Buren
– Van Buren Village (Recreated 1850s Settlement)
– Taylorsville Lake History
See images of the lost town of Van Buren:
Pinterest Collection: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/366973069611607470/
TaylorsvilleCottage.com – Lake History: https://www.taylorsvillecottage.com/taylorsville-lake-kentucky.html

Wedding & Event Venues with Heart

Whether you’re planning a rustic barn wedding, an elegant celebration, or a laid-back family reunion, Spencer County, KY offers a variety of venues that blend natural beauty with Southern hospitality. Here are some of the top spots to host your unforgettable day:

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🌾 The View at Plum Creek

📍 5105 Mount Washington Road, Taylorsville, KY
🌐 viewatplumcreek.com
📞 (502) 821-3856
📧 viewatplumcreek@gmail.com
⭐ 4.7 (17 reviews)
💬 “The name is appropriate for the stunning views all around this venue.”

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🕊️ The McKinley Wedding & Event Venue

📍 Taylorsville, KY
🌐 themckinleyevent.com
📞 (502) 859-0999
💬 “No hidden fees, no stress—just a beautiful space and total freedom to make it your own.”

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🏛️ Events on Main

📍 19 E Main Street, Taylorsville, KY
A charming downtown venue perfect for showers, receptions, reunions, and community events.
https://www.facebook.com/p/Events-On-Main-100071546474743/
💬 “It’s the perfect size for intimate gatherings, and the location couldn’t be more convenient.”

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🏢 Chamber of Commerce Hall

📍 19 E Main Street, Taylorsville, KY
Operated by the Spencer County-Taylorsville Chamber of Commerce, this hall is a popular venue for seasonal events and private rentals.
🌐 spencercountykychamber.com
📞 (502) 477-8369
💬 “We’ve hosted everything from baby showers to business mixers here—it’s a true community space.”

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🌿 The Barn at Magnolia Farm

📍 6701 Briar Ridge Road, Mount Eden, KY
🌐 thebarnatmagnoliafarm.com
📞 (502) 354-3778
💬 “The barn is beautifully decorated and full of charm. We barely had to add anything—it was already perfect.”

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🌸 Driscoll Estate Wedding and Event Venue

📍 Taylorsville, KY
⭐ 4.6 (98 reviews)
💬 “Beautiful place to have a wedding, everything was lovely.”

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🌿 Sage Wedding & Event Venue

📍 Taylorsville, KY
https://sageevents.co/
⭐ 4.7 (12 reviews)
💬 “The venue was beautiful and pricing was more than reasonable.”

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🌅 Overlook Event Center at Edgewater Resort

📍 Taylorsville, KY
⭐ 5.0 (4 reviews)
💬 “The view of the lake from the lawn is unmatched!”

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🏡 Other Local Options

• Spencer County Extension Office – Great for community events and receptions.
• Taylorsville Lake State Park – Ideal for outdoor ceremonies and scenic photo ops.
• Local churches and fellowship halls – Many offer rental options for weddings and reunions.

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💼 Need Help Planning?

Let Taylorsville-Spencer County Tourism be your local concierge! From vendor referrals to lodging recommendations, they’re your go-to team for making your event smooth and memorable.

Cheers!

Whether you are looking for a beautiful wedding location or a place to worship while you are visiting us, Spencer County’s church communities are waiting to welcome you (and probably feed you doughnuts & coffee.) Find your favorite historic church or jump in with contemporary worship. We have what you need!

Spencer County Churches

All Saints Catholic Church
📍 Taylorsville, KY
🌐 http://allsaintstville.org

Bethlehem Baptist Church
📍 1286 Briar Ridge Road, Mt. Eden
🌐 bbcspencer.org

Briar Ridge Christian Church
📍 Spencer County, KY
🌐 briarridgechristianchurch.com

Church of God of Prophecy
📍 Taylorsville, KY

Elk Creek Baptist Church
📍 5734 Elk Creek Road
🌐 elkcreekbaptist.com

Elk Creek Missionary Baptist Church
📍 5280 Elk Creek Road

First Assembly of God
📍 Taylorsville, KY

First Baptist Church of Taylorsville
📍 115 W Main Street
🌐 taylorsvillefbc.com

First Christian Church
📍 Taylorsville, KY

House of Prayer Apostolic Church
📍 Taylorsville, KY

Kings Baptist Church
📍 989 Kings Church Road
🌐 kingsbaptist.net

Lighthouse Baptist Church
📍 88 Miller Road
🌐 lighthousetaylorsville.com

Lighthouse Worship Center
📍 Taylorsville, KY
🌐 lwctaylorsville.com

Little Mount Baptist Church
📍 6129 Little Mount Road
🌐 littlemountbaptist.org

Little Union Baptist Church
📍 Spencer County, KY

Mt. Eden Christian Church
📍 Mt. Eden, KY
🌐 mtedencc.com

Mt. Moriah Baptist Church
📍 Spencer County, KY

Mt. Zion Baptist Church of Campbranch
📍 Spencer County, KY

New Hope Tabernacle
📍 Spencer County, KY

Pleasant Hill Christian Church
📍 Spencer County, KY

Plum Creek Baptist Church
📍 Taylorsville, KY
🌐 plumcreekbaptist.com

Redemption Hill Baptist Church
📍 Taylorsville, KY
🌐 redemptionhillbc.org

Ridgeview Baptist Church
📍 Spencer County, KY

Risen Lord Lutheran Church
📍 Taylorsville, KY
🌐 risenlordchurch.com

River View Baptist Church
📍 Spencer County, KY

The Old Country Church / OCC Ministries (Full Gospel)
📍 Spencer County, KY

We’ll be there with doughnuts and coffee to welcome you to your home away from home!
Cheers!

Heading to Taylorsville Lake and our quaint Main Street is one of Kentucky’s most wallet-friendly family trips. Equestrian travelers are welcome at our State Park and RV Park, with trails and accommodations for both you and your horse. Enjoy free access to our rivers, streams, and stunning lake. The State Park has a fishing gear lending library for anglers big and small. Our local eateries are tasty, affordable, and loved by the locals. We’re thrilled to share our amazing landscapes, scenic drives, and serene farmlands. Taylorsville Lake and Spencer County offer the quiet charm only a small town can provide.

Feel the warmth and hospitality Taylorsville, KY, is famous for. Whether you’re exploring the charming shops on Main Street or having a lakeside picnic, there’s something for everyone. Our community events, held in our adorable town, bring locals and visitors together for a fun mix of culture, art, music, and excitement. Check out the local shops for unique handmade goods and souvenirs.

For adventure seekers, the area offers hiking, biking, and nature trails showcasing Kentucky’s stunning countryside. As the sun goes down, enjoy a campfire at one of our campgrounds, sharing stories and creating lasting memories. So pack your bags and head to Taylorsville, where a genuine small-town experience awaits. We can’t wait to welcome you!