Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky
Why not, indeed.
On our way back from Michigan we stopped by Georgetown, Kentucky to visit our friends (and travel agents) Brent & Jo Anne. Brent arranged for us to visit and tour the Woodford Reserve Distillery in nearby Versailles (verSALES).
Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky
We’d been before, but love visiting there because the facility is beautiful and the bourbon is very good. Visiting with friends always makes it more fun, and we had a good time with Brent & Jo Anne before heading back toward home.
Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, KentuckyWoodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky
By the time you read this, Kathy & I will be sailing across the Atlantic on our latest adventure. Replied to comments may be a little more delayed than usual, but stay tuned for Postcards!
Woodford Reserve Distillery in Versailles, Kentucky
On our way south from Michigan we stopped in Twin Lakes, Wisconsin to visit our friends Jeff & Mary Pat. We needed to kill some time one afternoon when we remembered that we had previously tried to visit the Yerkes Observatory in nearby Williams Bay.
Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinYerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin
We tried to visit the observatory in October 2019 (Blog Post) but discovered that it had been closed and was not permitting visitors. We talked at length with the caretaker, who had been outside mowing the lawn. He explained that the observatory was in the process of being transferred to a private foundation and the goal was to re-open to the public sometime in the coming years.
Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinYerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinYerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinYerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin
We were pleased to discover that the observatory in now in the hands of The Yerkes Future Foundation. It remains a working observatory, and the only way to visit is by booking a tour, so that’s what we did.
The Yerkes 40-inch refracting-type telescope was the largest in the world when it was dedicated in 1897. Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinThe Yerkes 40-inch refracting-type telescope was the largest in the world when it was dedicated in 1897. Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinThe Yerkes 40-inch refracting-type telescope was the largest in the world when it was dedicated in 1897. Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin
Yerkes Observatory has a long history of discovery and has been visited by famous scientists and astronomers over the years, including Albert Einstein, Edwin Hubble, Nancy Grace Roman, Gerard Kuiper, Mary Calvert, E.E. Barnard, Richard Kron, Carl Sagan and many more. The Yerkes 40-inch Great Refractor Telescope was the largest refracting-type telescope in the world when it was dedicated in 1897 (40 inches refers to the size of the main lens element). The telescope is 63 feet long, weighs 12,000 pounds and is so delicately balanced that it can be moved by hand.
Storage room at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinStorage room at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinStorage room at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinYerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinDarkroom at the Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin
The library/storage area contains hundreds of books on astronomy and astrophysics, along with an interesting array of old equipment, including cameras and enlargers. We even got to see some old slides that were made before digital imaging became the standard.
Astronomy book that had been checked out by Carl Sagan in 1956. Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, WisconsinAstronomy book that had been checked out by Carl Sagan in 1956. Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin
The foundation has done a beautiful job restoring the facility and does a nice tour. We even got to see the dome rotated and the floor raised, which is one of the way to access the eyepiece of the telescope!
Remains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, Michigan
The Keweenaw Peninsula was once a thriving copper mining location, and abandoned mines and mining equipment dot the countryside. One of the things I wanted to see was the remains of Quincy Dredge Number Two. It’s not easy (or probably legal) to get close to the dredge, so I made do with a few photos from the road.
Remains of the Quincy Dredge Number Two near Calumet, Michigan
But across the road from where the dredge lies is the remains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1. It looked interesting so we pulled into the parking area to take a look around.
Remains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, MichiganRemains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, Michigan
The building is a bit creepy and probably (mostly?) quite safe, but I didn’t venture more than a few feet in. The graffiti and trash made for an interesting scene, reminiscent of some of the abandoned building we saw across Route 66 a few years ago.
It was late and we had a dinner reservation at a nice restaurant, so duty called and I only got a few representative photos.
Remains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, MichiganRemains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, MichiganRemains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, MichiganRemains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, MichiganRemains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, MichiganRemains of the Quincy Mining Company Stamp Mill #1 near Calumet, Michigan
Sightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, Michigan
Even though we’ve never owned a boat nor had the desire for one, Kathy & I rarely pass up an opportunity for a cruise. We took a harbor/river cruise in Port Huron, and technically took a ferry cruise to Mackinac Island, so why not one more?
Former Quincy Smelting Works on the Portage Canal near Houghton, MichiganLift bridge over the Portage Canal in Houghton, Michigan
When we first started making plans for our Keweenaw Peninsula trip we intended to try and do a day trip to Isle Royale National Park. As the name suggests, the park sits on an island in Lake Superior, actually closer to Canada than the US, but it is readily accessible from both sides of the lake.
Sightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganSightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganEveryone waves at Ranger IIISightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganSightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, Michigan
Unfortunately we waited too long to make arrangements for a day trip to the island. There is only one ferry service that offers the chance of a day trip and it was already full. Alternatives would have required an overnight stay, but that’s not what we were looking for. It’s also possible to take a float plane out and back, but that is quite costly, especially just for a few hours.
Keweenaw Waterway Lower Entry Light. Seen during our sightseeing cruise aboard the Ranger III from Houghton, MichiganPortage River Lighthouse in Jacobsville, Michigan. Seen during our sightseeing cruise aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganKeweenaw Waterway Lower Entry Light. Seen during our sightseeing cruise aboard the Ranger III from Houghton, Michigan
The National Park Service operates a visitor center in Houghton, where we were staying. From the visitor center the NPS operates the Ranger III boat, carrying passengers and their gear to Isle Royale and back several days a week. In summer, they also offer cruises on the Portage Canal, the “river” that runs between Lake Superior and Keweenaw Bay. So we booked a cruise on the Ranger III and enjoyed a little more time on the water, learning about the history of the region and the role that the canal has played in the local economy over the years.
(Almost) everyone waves at Ranger IIIEveryone waves at Ranger IIISightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganEveryone waves at Ranger IIISightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganSightseeing cruise on the Portage Canal, aboard the Ranger III from the National Park Service Visitor Center in Houghton, MichiganEveryone waves at Ranger III
Sunset along the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
Kathy & I had talked for several years about getting to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan to see the Soo Locks. We finally had a chance to visit in July on our swing through Michigan.
Sunset along the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganSunset along the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
There is a really nice visitor center along the canal with a two story observation platform to watch the ship traffic – everything from small pleasure boats to huge freighters. The highlight of our visit was a boat cruise on the St. Mary’s River which took us through the locks and back.
Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganScenery along the St. Marys River on our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganTransiting the Soo Locks during our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
The Canadian side of the river on the west side of the locks is home to a number of industrial plants that process various ores used in the production of steel. It was interesting to see the contrast with the cityscape on the east side.
Scenery along the St. Marys River on our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganScenery along the St. Marys River on our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganScenery along the St. Marys River on our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganPiles of Taconite, a form of iron ore pellets used in the production of steel. Seen at the Algoma Steel Company plant located on the St. Marys River in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario CanadaPiles of Taconite, a form of iron ore pellets used in the production of steel. Seen at the Algoma Steel Company plant located on the St. Marys River in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario Canada
There wasn’t a lot to see in the city itself, but we stayed in a little motel right across the street from the canal. There was a decent little restaurant for breakfast and dinner, so we had everything we needed within walking distance. It was a nice visit and we’re glad we took the time to go!
Scenery along the St. Marys River on our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganFreighter entering the Soo LocksHanging On. Feather stuck on the side of one of the locks. Soo Locks, Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.Scenery along the St. Marys River on our cruise with Famous Soo Locks Boat Tours. Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganI offered to take Kathy to visit but for some reason she declined. 🙂Sault Ste. Marie, MichiganSault Ste. Marie, MichiganOld sign at the Lockview Motel in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan
We hadn’t originally intended to have extra time in St. Ignace, but a small schedule change allowed us a chance to visit Mackinac Island before heading just an hour up the road to Sault Ste. Marie. We made the best of the opportunity by booking a ferry trip to the island, exploring Fort Mackinac and visiting the Grand Hotel.
Mackinac Island, MichiganMackinac Island, MichiganMackinac Island, MichiganMaking Fudge at Murdicks Original Fudge Company on Mackinac Island, MichiganMaking Fudge at Murdicks Original Fudge Company on Mackinac Island, Michigan
The town is extremely touristy, but it is quite picturesque and there are plenty of people watching opportunities. Getting to the fort requires a bit of a climb, but once there the views were worth it and it was quite interesting.
Mackinac Island, MichiganMackinac Island, MichiganMackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganRifle demonstration at Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe Little Stone Church on Mackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, MichiganFort Mackinac on Mackinac Island, Michigan
We retreated to the Pink Pony restaurant for lunch and to cool off. We had been debating whether to walk over to the Grand Hotel and had almost decided not to. But our helpful waiter asked us if we had been, then proceeded to convince us that we should make the effort. Then he told us about the “Secret Garden” that offers beautiful flowers and a nice view of the house. It wasn’t completely secret, but there were way fewer people there than there were up at the house.
The ‘Secret Garden’ at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe ‘Secret Garden’ at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe ‘Secret Garden’ at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe ‘Secret Garden’ at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe ‘Secret Garden’ at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe ‘Secret Garden’ at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, Michigan
We didn’t take the time or spend the money to go inside the house, but we did enjoy the classic views from outside. And I found the official Picture Spot so I could be sure to properly document our visit!
The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganThe Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganMackinac Island, MichiganThe Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, MichiganFerry from Mackinac Island to St. Ignace, Michigan
After our time in St. Clair, we made our way toward the Upper Peninsula, stopping for a night in St. Ignace. We learned the correct pronunciation – IGness, not igNACE – and managed to get it right and not embarrass ourselves. 😉
St. Ignace Marina in St. Ignace, MichiganSt. Ignace Marina in St. Ignace, MichiganSt. Ignace Marina in St. Ignace, MichiganSt. Ignace Marina in St. Ignace, MichiganWawatam Lighthouse in St. Ignace, Michigan
We were only there for a few hours, but managed to get a few photos of the marina and the lighthouse.
Breakfast Pasty at Bentleys Cafe in St. Ignace, Michigan
We learned on a previous visit that when visiting the U.P. having a Pasty is kind of a requirement. I managed to have a Breakfast Pasty at Bentley’s Cafe.
St. Ignace Marina in St. Ignace, MichiganBayside Inn in St. Ignace, MichiganSt. Ignace, Michigan
I realized a few weeks ago that I had not completed editing and processing my photos from our trip to Michigan in July. I finished them up a few days ago and have posted a gallery on my Adobe Portfolio page.
Fort Gratiot Lighthouse seen during our cruise on the St. Clair River aboard Huron Lady II Cruises in Port Huron, MichiganBlowing in the Breeze. Fort Gratiot Lighthouse in Port Huron, Michigan
We spent a few days in the Port Huron area, staying a bit south in the town of St. Clair. It was our first time in that area, and gave a chance to catch up with Mark Graf that I posted about earlier. While in St. Clair we managed to spend some time in Port Huron, exploring the town, taking a boat cruise on the St. Clair River and visiting the Thomas Edison Depot Museum.
Readers of an Edison biography might remember that Thomas Edison lived in Port Huron during his early years, and as a 12 year old got his entrepreneurial start selling newspapers and confections on the train from Grand Trunk to Detroit. The railroad depot in Port Huron houses the Thomas Edison Depot Museum.
Thomas Edison Depot Museum in Port Huron, MichiganThomas Edison Depot Museum in Port Huron, MichiganThomas Edison Depot Museum in Port Huron, MichiganThomas Edison Depot Museum in Port Huron, Michigan
An interesting thing about the St. Clair River is that it marks the boundary between the United States and Canada. We realized that when we were looking across the river we were looking at Canada! And our phones would occasionally welcome us to Canada also! 😉
Cruise on the St. Clair River aboard Huron Lady II Cruises in Port Huron, MichiganThe Blue Water Bridge over the St. Clair River connects the US and Canada in Port Huron, MichiganThe Blue Water Bridge over the St. Clair River connects the US and Canada in Port Huron, Michigan
As it happened, we were in Port Huron during the lead up to the annual Blue Water Festival, so things were starting to get a bit busy. We managed to get in and out of town during the day and before the start of festivities without a lot of traffic issues, although a boat parade on one of the evenings would have been fun to see.
Overall Port Huron is a nice town on the water with plenty of things to see and do.
Freighter headed up river toward Detroit in Port Huron, MichiganRetired lightship ‘Huron’ seen during our cruise on the St. Clair River aboard Huron Lady II Cruises in Port Huron, Michigan
Ramp leading to the Generations Lounge at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
I’ll be posting things in random order just because I am randomly processing photos!
An old column still is the centerpiece of Generations Lounge at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
On our way back from Bardstown, KY we stopped by Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg. They recently opened a new visitor center that I wanted to see, and of course their bourbon is pretty tasty. Wild Turkey is the name of the distillery and their flagship product, but the good stuff is called Russell’s Reserve, named for the three generations of the Russell family who have been making fine bourbon since 1954. In fact, the Wild Turkey distillery traces its roots all the way back to 1855.
Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
We booked late, too late to get a tour of the facility, but not too late to have a tasting. Perhaps the next time we’ll have a little more notice and get to complete the tour. In the mean time we got to enjoy some refreshments and lunch in the Generations Lounge.
Generations Lounge at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KentuckyWild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KentuckyFeeling thirsty. Generations Lounge at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KentuckyGenerations Lounge at Wild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KentuckyWild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KentuckyWild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, KentuckyWild Turkey Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky
We got to Bardstown a day earlier than we anticipated. So what do you do with a bonus day in Bourbon country? You taste wine, of course!
Kentucky does have some pretty decent wine, it seems that Chambourcin and Cabernet Franc grow especially well here. So of course we picked up a few bottles. 🙂
We did stop by the Jim Beam Distillery, although they were not open. It’s still very scenic place and one we have enjoyed visiting in the past.
