Sale of Claudia Sanders Dinner House and Blackwood Hall canceled

The iconic Claudia Sanders Dinner House, located in Shelbyville, Kentucky, will no longer be sold, marking a significant decision for the local community. The establishment, once associated with Harland “Colonel” Sanders and his wife Claudia, was previously placed on the market earlier this summer through an auction process. The announcement was made following the conclusion of a sealed-bid auction that ended on July 31.

In a statement released by the Settle family, current owners of the restaurant and the adjacent Blackwood Hall residence, they expressed gratitude for the outpouring of community support. They reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining the legacy of the Claudia Sanders Dinner House, which has long been celebrated for its hospitality and tradition. The family emphasized their resolve to continue operations smoothly, ensuring that both loyal customers and newcomers will continue to experience the warmth and charm that the establishment is known for.

The property spans 3.01 acres and includes Blackwood Hall, a 5,000-square-foot residence that served as the personal home of Harland and Claudia Sanders from 1959 to 1984. Also included is a substantial restaurant and banquet hall, nearly 25,000 square feet in size. The offerings during the auction extended beyond real estate; it encompassed the operational restaurant business, along with its furnishings, equipment, and intellectual property rights.

Harland and Claudia Sanders brought the Claudia Sanders Dinner House to life in 1959 after relocating from Corbin, Kentucky. It not only served as a restaurant but also operated as the first headquarters for Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). For over six decades, this historic site has drawn visitors from across the nation, contributing significantly to the local culture and economy.

The Settle family acquired the properties directly from the Sanders in 1974, becoming custodians of this rich legacy. As part of the auction proceedings, various personal artifacts belonging to Sanders were also made available, including his handwritten recipes, notable letters from U.S. presidents, and his iconic bow tie, among other memorabilia.

As the Claudia Sanders Dinner House prepares to continue its operations, it remains a vital part of Kentucky’s culinary history and an enduring testament to the impact of its founder.

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