Kentucky Ghost Town Film Set For Sale at $350,000

A 22-acre property in Mount Vernon, Kentucky, featuring a complete replica of an 1800s town, is on the market for $350,000. The unique homestead, which includes over a dozen historic structures, recently served as the primary filming location for the horror movie "The Devil Below."

Located in the scenic Renfro Valley Mountains, the property offers a collection of preserved buildings, including a church, a general store, and ten rustic cabins. This sale presents a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of both local history and Hollywood memorabilia.

A Glimpse into the Past: The Property's Unique Features

The centerpiece of the expansive 22-acre lot is a carefully assembled village of historic buildings. The collection aims to recreate the atmosphere of a 19th-century settlement, offering a tangible connection to a bygone era.

Among the structures is an 1800s church, which retains its original stained-glass windows. According to listing agent Victoria Caldwell of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Foster, REALTORS, the church holds a unique artifact.

"There is a bell in the church from a Confederate War train that is still operational and kids love to ring," Caldwell stated.

The property also features a general store complete with a commercial kitchen and bathrooms. This building was once a functioning business, though it has been closed for approximately a decade. Other notable buildings include a blacksmith shop, a post office, and a period-accurate schoolhouse, each contributing to the town's authentic feel.

Accommodations and Living Spaces

In addition to the public-style buildings, the homestead includes ten rustic cabins and a cowboy bunkhouse, offering multiple lodging options. One specific dwelling, known as The Pennington, is a more complete home with one bedroom, a kitchen, a living room, and a fireplace.

Caldwell highlighted the historic craftsmanship visible throughout the property. "I love the old buildings," she said. "Some of them have these big beautiful, original stone fireplaces."

While The Pennington is considered livable, it maintains its rustic character. "There is a home that is livable, but it just doesn't have a lot of modern amenities," Caldwell noted, emphasizing its historical nature over modern convenience.

From Hollywood Set to Real Estate Listing

The property's distinct and atmospheric setting recently captured the attention of Hollywood. It served as the eerie, abandoned town in the 2021 horror film "The Devil Below," which starred actor Will Patton.

This cinematic history adds a unique layer of appeal, transforming the homestead from a historical replica into a recognizable film location. For potential buyers, this connection could be a significant draw, especially for commercial ventures targeting film enthusiasts or tourists.

The sale includes the very grounds and buildings that appeared on screen, offering a rare opportunity to own a functional piece of movie history. The town's pre-existing rustic and slightly unsettling vibe was ideal for the horror genre, requiring minimal set dressing to achieve the desired look for the film.

The Vision Behind the Village

The creation of this unique property was a long-term project driven by a passion for historical preservation. The concept originated with a previous owner who dedicated himself to saving pieces of Kentucky's architectural past.

"The gentleman who originally owned the property went around Kentucky and found these cabins with the goal of restoration and preservation," explained Caldwell.

Unfortunately, the original visionary passed away before his dream was fully realized. The current owners took up the mantle and continued the work. "He never got to bring his dream to fruition, but the current owners did a lot of work, finding antiques to finish out the vibe," Caldwell added.

Their efforts are visible in the details that complete the town's aesthetic, from the furnishings in the cabins to the items stocking the shelves of the general store. The result is a property that is not just a collection of buildings, but a curated historical experience.

Development Potential and Location Advantages

One of the most significant aspects of the property is its flexibility for future use. According to Caldwell, the area does not have traditional zoning restrictions, which opens up a wide range of possibilities for a new owner.

"There is not traditional zoning, so that leaves the opportunity open," she confirmed. This lack of restriction is a major asset for anyone with a creative or commercial vision.

Numerous potential uses have been considered by interested parties:

• Wedding Venue: The property has already been used for family and friends' weddings, with the historic church and scenic backdrop providing a unique setting. Caldwell believes this would be the "easiest transition."
• Short-Term Rentals: With multiple cabins, the site could be developed into an Airbnb or vacation rental destination, attracting tourists, history buffs, and film fans.
• Retreat or Camp: Some have explored using it as a church camp or corporate retreat center.
• Private Homestead: It could also serve as a large, private family compound for those seeking a secluded and historic lifestyle.

Land and Location

The 22 acres are predominantly wooded and hilly, characteristic of the Renfro Valley. Caldwell advises that significant development would require effort. "It would take a lot of excavation work if you wanted to develop on the land," she noted.

Despite its secluded feel, the property is conveniently located. It is about 20 minutes from Berea, a town renowned for its arts and crafts scene. It is also approximately an hour's drive from Lexington and major recreational areas like Lake Linville and Lake Cumberland, providing access to both urban amenities and natural attractions.