Why is a small town in Kentucky called Rabbit Hash, and what’s the story behind its unusual mayors?

Tucked along the Ohio River in Kentucky, Rabbit Hash is a charmingly quirky town known for its odd tradition of electing dogs as mayors. The town earned its peculiar name in the early 19th century, supposedly because locals frequently cooked up a stew of rabbit meat, referred to as "rabbit hash," during harsh winters. The name stuck, and the town has embraced its eccentricity ever since.

But the real magic of Rabbit Hash lies in its canine leadership. In 1998, the townspeople elected a dog, Goofy Borneman-Calhoun, as their first mayor, not as a joke but as a fundraiser for the Rabbit Hash Historical Society. The trend caught on, and since then, a series of charismatic dogs, including Lucy Lou, Brynneth Pawltro, and Wilbur Beast, have held the honorary position. These four-legged politicians are adored not just by locals but also by visitors who flock to Rabbit Hash for its historic general store, whimsical atmosphere, and the chance to meet the "mayor."

The tradition has become more than a quirky gimmick—it’s a testament to the town’s sense of humor and community spirit. While Rabbit Hash may not have a bustling population, its creative approach to governance has ensured its place in the hearts of many.