History
There are few buildings in the state of Kentucky that have operated for centuries - Old Stone Inn has that distinction. Historical records date back to the early 1800's when the building's construction became complete. Final completion of the structure is believed to have happened in 1817, a year after Simponville, Kentucky was established as a town.
Old Stone Inn has passed through many hands in history. It has served as a stagecoach stop, tavern, residence, inn and since the 1920's, a restaurant. It is listed as a national historic landmark and has a long list of historical visitors including the famous General Lafayette of the civil war and former president Andrew Jackson.
Constructed of course limestone gathered from a nearby quarry with flat jack arches over openings, the building was advanced for its time in history. The original stone structure has foot wide door facings - the width of the cut stone - and wide plank hardwood floors. There used to be eight original fireplaces, however only four remain.
The front of the building once had a door located to the right of the main double door entrance (see black and white photo above). This second door lead directly into the former tavern which served in the 1830's. Records are unclear as to how long it remained in service. Today, the second entrance is now a window which added symmetry to Old Stone's facade.
Upon passing through another owner's hands in the 1920's, the building became known as "Ye Old Stone Inn" which served as tearoom.
The side additions were added in the 1970's to accommodate the crowds. Old Stone Inn proudly obtained historical honor in 1976 when it became listed on the National Historic Register.
Old Stone Inn's present owner is Allen and Robert Purnell whom purchased the buiding in 1987.
* History information gathered from "The New History of Shelby County, Kentucky".
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Old Stone Inn
6905 Shelbyville Road
Simpsonville, KY 40067