A Journey Through Time and Taste

As I stepped into the heart of historic downtown Frankfort, I was immediately enveloped by a sense of nostalgia. The streets, lined with charming old buildings, whispered stories of the past. It was a place where time seemed to stand still, and I was eager to explore its hidden treasures. My husband and I had parked our trusty RV just outside the city, ready to embark on another adventure that promised to be both enlightening and delicious.

Our first stop was the renowned Rebecca Ruth Chocolate Shop, a family-run business that has been crafting confections for over a century. The tour promised a taste of Southern hospitality, and it did not disappoint. As we entered the shop, the rich aroma of chocolate filled the air, instantly transporting me back to my childhood days when my grandmother and I would make bourbon balls together during the holidays. The tour guide, with her infectious energy and passion for the craft, shared the inspiring story of Ruth Booe, one of the pioneering women who founded the business in the late 1800s. Her tale of resilience and innovation resonated deeply with me, reminding me of the strength and determination of the women in my own family.

The Sweet Legacy of Bourbon Balls

The highlight of the tour was undoubtedly the tasting session. As I savored the original Bourbon Ball, I couldn’t help but think of my maternal grandmother, who was born in 1909 in Arkansas. She had a knack for making bourbon and rum balls during Christmas, and I was her little helper, eagerly rolling the sweet treats in powdered sugar. The taste of the Bourbon Ball at Rebecca Ruth’s was a delightful blend of nostalgia and novelty, a testament to the enduring legacy of Ruth Booe’s creation.

I decided to purchase a gift set of these delectable chocolates to send to my 85-year-old mother for Mother’s Day. It felt like a fitting tribute to the generations of women in our family who have shared a love for these confections. The shop also offered a wide variety of chocolates, catering to all tastes. I picked up several kinds for our two grown daughters, who, unlike me, have not yet developed a taste for alcohol-infused chocolates. It was a joy to see the diverse offerings, each piece crafted with care and tradition.

Embracing Southern Hospitality

The tour was more than just a journey through a chocolate factory; it was an immersion into the warmth and hospitality that the South is renowned for. The small-group setting allowed for personal interactions, and I found myself chatting with fellow travelers who, like me, were drawn to the rich history and flavors of the region. The guide’s stories of overcoming adversity and celebrating triumphs were a reminder of the resilience that defines so many small-town businesses across America.

As we concluded our visit, I took a moment to reflect on the experience. It was a reminder of the beauty of road trips, where each stop offers a new story, a new taste, and a new connection to the past. Frankfort, with its charming streets and welcoming locals, had captured my heart. I left with a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of travel and the timeless allure of small-town America. Frankfort Tour