Looking for the best things to do in Taylorsville, Kentucky this summer? Spencer County is filled with family-friendly events, outdoor activities, live music, and small-town festivals all season long. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or exploring close to home, there’s something happening nearly every week.
From the beloved Taylorsville Farmers Market to the Spencer County Fair and Fourth of July celebrations, summer here is all about community, connection, and unforgettable local experiences.
Weekly Favorites You Don’t Want to Miss
Taylorsville Farmers Market
One of the most popular summer attractions in Spencer County, the Farmers Market is your go-to for fresh produce, local goods, and handmade items.
Civil War Spencer County: Sites, Stories, Cemeteries & the Buffalo Soldier From Little Mount
Spencer County’s Civil War era lives on in roadside markers, church steeples, quiet cemeteries, and in the brief but remarkable life of a Buffalo Soldier whose headstone still stands in Little Mount. This guide takes visitors from downtown Taylorsville to the rural ridges where history survives in stone, soil, and story.
1) Downtown Taylorsville: Markers That Tell the War
The Courthouse Burned (January 1865)
A historical marker on the courthouse lawn explains how guerrillas set fire to the Spencer County Courthouse during one of the final, chaotic months of the Civil War. Federal scouts pursued the raiders toward Mt. Eden the next morning, but the courthouse was lost—though its records survived.
All Saints Catholic Church (Established 1830)
Just a short walk from the courthouse stands All Saints Catholic Church, Spencer County’s only Catholic parish. Founded in the 1830s, the parish witnessed the courthouse burning and remains one of the county’s oldest continuously active religious institutions.
Local tradition: Parishioners have long repeated this story. The night of the Courthouse burning by Confederate raiders, the city fathers were meeting within All Saints Catholic Church. Somehow they recieved word that the courthouse was to be attacked and so they all ran to collect the record books from the hall. As they ran back to the church with their arms full of papers and books the raiders arrived and because to chase them with bulltefire! A stray bullet struck the church steeple! While the story is not formally documented, it remains one of the community’s most enduring tales and can be verified by the staff at the church. It was just a legend until the original steeple was damaged in a storm. The steeple was taken down and rebuilt on the front of the church. As this was done, a civil war bullet was indeed found and was interred in the structure as it was rebuilt.
Guerrilla Quantrill in Wakefield
Five miles south of Taylorsville, a wayside on KY‑55 marks the spot where William Clarke Quantrill—the infamous guerrilla leader—was ambushed in May 1865. He attempted to flee, was shot and paralyzed, and taken into custody.
How Quantrill reached Louisville: After being wounded in the Wakefield ambush, Quantrill was carried under military guard to the U.S. Military Prison Hospital in Louisville, where he died on June 6, 1865. No surviving documentation specifies how he was transported (wagon, ambulance, or otherwise), only that he was captured in Spencer County and died in Louisville several weeks later.
2) Cemeteries: Where Civil War‑Era Kentuckians Rest
Spencer County’s cemeteries preserve the lives of frontier settlers, enslaved and free African Americans, and families divided by the war. Many of these resting places sit on rural hillsides or behind churches that still serve their communities today.
Little Mount Colored Cemetery (Little Mount) — Historic African American cemetery and burial site of Buffalo Soldier Lewis T. Baker.
Little Mount Cemetery — Adjacent to the Colored Cemetery, with numerous 19th‑century burials.
Pleasant Union Cemetery (Little Mount) — A small rural cemetery historically associated with the Little Mount community.
Elk Creek Baptist Church Cemetery — One of the county’s larger traditional cemeteries.
Riverview Baptist Church Cemetery — Located along Louisville Road in the Cox’s Creek area near the county line.
Briar Ridge Christian Church Cemetery — A historic cemetery on the eastern side of the county near Taylorsville Lake.
Valley Cemetery (Taylorsville) — The city’s principal cemetery, located one mile west of town.
Patrick McGee Pioneer Cemetery (Waterford) — A small pioneer cemetery containing some of the county’s earliest settlers.
Carlin Family Cemetery (Normandy) — A private family burial ground on rural property east of the Normandy community.
Yoder Farm Cemetery — A small private or semi‑private family cemetery without published coordinates.
The Old Taylorsville (Pioneer) Cemetery Historic narrative accounts describe early burials here from the 1830s onward. African American burials were historically located on the southern slope while white burials clustered toward the west. Over the decades the cemetery saw damage, vandalism, and neglect, though local efforts have periodically restored portions of the grounds.
3) Spotlight: Buffalo Soldier Lewis T. Baker (1887–1910)
Lewis T. Baker was born in Spencer County in January 1887 to A.B. (“Oscar”) Baker and Mary Avery Baker. He enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1909 and was assigned to Troop M of the 10th U.S. Cavalry, one of the original “Buffalo Soldier” regiments.
The 10th Cavalry served across the American West, in Cuba during the Spanish‑American War, and in the Philippines. In 1909 the regiment was posted to Fort Ethan Allen in Vermont, where Baker served until his death “in the line of duty” on August 7, 1910, at age 23.
His body was returned home and buried in Little Mount Colored Cemetery, where his headstone reads:
“L.E.W.I.S. T. B.A.K.E.R. CO. M. 10 U.S. CAV.”
His story links Spencer County directly to the national history of African American military service.
4) Notable 19th‑Century Figures of Spencer County
Richard Taylor – Founder of Taylorsville
In 1799, Richard Taylor donated 60 acres at the fork of Brashear’s Creek and the Salt River to establish Taylorsville. Early trustees included Robert Jeffries, George Cravinston, Philip W. Taylor, and Benjamin Bourne.
Captain Spier Spencer – County Namesake
Spier Spencer, leader of the Kentucky “Yellow Jackets,” was killed in the 1811 Battle of Tippecanoe. Spencer County, founded in 1824, honors his name.
George Gilmore Gilbert (1849–1909)
Born in Taylorsville, Gilbert became a lawyer, served as Spencer County’s prosecuting attorney, then in the Kentucky State Senate, and represented Kentucky in the U.S. House of Representatives for four consecutive terms (1899–1907).
5) Self‑Guided Heritage Tour (Half‑Day)
Courthouse Lawn (Downtown Taylorsville): Begin with the “Courthouse Burned” marker.
All Saints Catholic Church: Walk uphill to the church built in the 1830s and explore parish history.
Wakefield (KY‑55): Visit the Quantrill ambush marker.
Little Mount: Explore the Little Mount Colored Cemetery (Lewis T. Baker’s grave), Little Mount Cemetery, and surrounding ridge‑top community.
35 Progressive Drive, Taylorsville, KY 40071 Hours: Mon–Fri 8:30 AM–5 PM | Sat 10 AM–4 PM | Sun Closed https://www.allinonepaint.com
Nestled in the heart of Spencer County, Heirloom Traditions Paint Company isn’t just a store—it’s a destination for creativity. This locally owned business is a favorite stop for visitors who love home projects, vintage aesthetics, and authentic Kentucky craftsmanship.
The History Behind Heirloom Paints
Heirloom Traditions Paint began as a small passion project by founder Paula Blankenship, who wanted to make furniture restoration accessible to everyone. Starting with a few colors and a dream, the company grew into a nationally recognized brand known for its ALL-IN-ONE Paint formula. Today, Heirloom Paints combines old-world charm with modern innovation, offering eco-friendly products that simplify DIY projects without sacrificing quality.
From humble beginnings, the company has stayed true to its roots—supporting local artisans, hosting workshops, and creating a space where creativity thrives.
What Makes Heirloom Paints Special?
Heirloom Traditions Paint is known for its ALL-IN-ONE Paint—a revolutionary formula that eliminates the need for sanding, stripping, or priming. Perfect for furniture makeovers, cabinetry, and even outdoor projects, this paint simplifies DIY while delivering professional results. Their eco-friendly approach includes low-VOC formulas and recycled plastic cans, making sustainability part of their mission.
More Than Just Paint
Step inside the Taylorsville showroom and you’ll find more than color swatches. The store offers:
36 curated vignettes showcasing each paint color in real-life settings.
DIY classes and workshops where you can learn techniques from experts.
Local gifts and treats, including homemade fudge, Spencer County apparel, and even bourbon slush for a true Kentucky experience.
Why Visit?
Whether you’re a weekend crafter or a seasoned DIYer, Heirloom Paints offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a chance to shop local, learn new skills, and take home a piece of Spencer County charm.
Looking for budget-friendly adventures the whole family can enjoy? Spencer County, KY is packed with free outdoor fun, hands-on experiences, and seasonal events that make memories without breaking the bank.
Waterford Community Park Just five miles west of Taylorsville on Hwy 44, this gem is open from sunrise to sunset and features a playground, picnic shelter, restrooms, a 0.45-mile walking track, fitness stations, and fields for basketball, soccer, and softball. It’s perfect for a day of play and fresh air!
Taylorsville Lake Adventures From scenic swimming trails off Overlook Road to boat-accessible swimming spots, Taylorsville Lake is a splash-worthy destination. Three public boat ramps offer free access for fishing, swimming, and boating—plus restrooms and parking!
Kitty Café at Spencer County Humane Society Kids and cat lovers alike will adore this cozy lounge on Main Street, where you can cuddle adoptable kitties and maybe even find a furry friend to take home.
Seasonal Events & Festivals Don’t miss Octoberfest Kids Zone, Trick or Treat on Main, and Christmas on Main—all free and full of games, crafts, parades, and holiday cheer. Foodyfest Kids Zone in September adds bounce houses, cooking classes, and kitty petting to the mix!
Creative & Educational Fun Enjoy free nature classes at Taylorsville Lake State Park, gourd crafting at the Gourd Festival, and hands-on learning through Spencer County’s 4-H programs. There’s even a Digital History Project online for curious minds!
Spencer County is your go-to for free family adventures that blend nature, creativity, and community spirit. Pack a picnic, grab the kids, and come explore!
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