Sunday, December 16, 2012

Hell, Michigan

Hell, MI – The story from Hell!


George Reeves established a community here in 1838. George also ran a whiskey still and got some of his neighbors in trouble. Their wives would often exclaim “their husbands had gone to Hell” (referring to George’s still) where they would hang out and drink with George. In 1841, the State of Michigan asked George what was going to be the name of his new town. George exclaimed “Call it Hell, everyone else does”. The name was accepted! Excessive drinking was a growing concern during the early growth of the United States. Often, people associated the drinking of any alcohol with a devilish behavior. The temperance movement became a prominent national movement by the end of the 19th century. Later, prohibition became the law in the early 20th century in the United States. By the way, it does get cold here in the winter and Hell does occasionally freeze over!

Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Rabbit Hash, KY




Rabbit Hash, KY - The town acquired its name from the events of a major flood that happened in the area. The name came into existence in 1847. A huge flood ravished the settlement during this time. A large rabbit population retreated into this area from the rising waters and became the main food source for the citizens. There were so many rabbits that the local people created a special stew called “hash”. The dish became so popular that the community adopted the name of “Rabbit Hash”. The town was completely submerged in 1937 by another flood. Today, only the Rabbit Hash General Store stands in this community. I’m not sure about the rabbit population!
Rabbit Hash Recipe - FYI!

1 1/2 to 2 cups of cooked rabbit

1/3 cup of shortening

3 potatoes

3 onions

½ teaspoon of celery salt

½ teaspoon of salt

You should also know:
The town always elects an animal as its mayor.  Really!



















½ teaspoon of pepper