Meet Nancy and Pete Blackmore, owners of Jane's Saddlebag

Pete and "P" Brett were in Orlando Florida attending MMI (Motorcycle Mechanics Institute) when Nancy was serving on the Boone County Big Bone Conservation Committee in 2002. Suddenly this property came up as "a risk for development"; Nancy quickly went to see the dilapidated home and decided she wanted to explore the opportunity to open a tourist destination. What a great compliment to Big Bone Lick State Park and her children's book The Story of Big Bone Lick.

Pete agreed to buy the house and 5 acres next to the then Big Bone Landing Marina and Campground. After looking at the corner of Ryle and Boat Dock Road, Nancy decided that the land across the street would be a nice addition to the project... If someone built something ugly there it would detract from the heritage tourism destination in the works. Then Nancy decided to climb the hill overlooking the valley. By the time she reached the top, the decision was made. "We are going to sell everything we own and buy as much of this estate as possible to live out our days overlooking the valley and region I love so much," said Nancy.

Pete went along with the idea and grudgingly sold his retirement estate: The Downs in Union, Kentucky. The massive project has taken on new life as visitors relax by nature. One hardly realizes the amount of work and money it has taken for this labor of love.

"I work harder now than I did when I was an executive with Levi Strauss and Company," laughs Pete Blackmore. Each day there are chores to do to get ready for the next week or event. The craft store has evolved into a restaurant with home cooking as Nancy serves as the cook. Pete greets each visitor with "Hello and welcome to Jane's, come on in and meet the boss."

Blackmore's both understand that land is becoming scarce in Boone County and the family farm and place to visit are a part of the past they can recreate for others. Visiting Jane's Saddlebag is like going to Grandpa's farm, complete with the aroma of home cooking, grounds that are manicured and animals that are quick to become your friend. Visitors never know what to expect, but are almost always pleasantly surprised at the welcome that keeps them coming back for more.