The Poet's House Bed & Breakfast

Looking for a quiet place that takes you back in time to the days of big side wheelers and little steam packets; watching them load and unload passengers and freight, then move up and down the Ohio River?

Imagine standing on the wharf at "steamboat time", watching the hustle and bustle of people coming and going, bells ringing, boat horns blowing, men moving boxes and bales to be taken to nearby towns, Captains and their mates shouting orders. Oh, such a time it was back then when life was simple and James Tandy Ellis was a young man.

You may envision yourself in those days, as you look out the window of your suite at the Ohio River and watch the boats moving slowly by, or sit quietly upon a bench outside sipping lemonade, iced tea, or your favorite beverage of choice while enjoying the beautiful view of the Ohio and the hills of Indiana in the background as the sun slowly slips into the clouds, turning the sky into radiant hues of red, orange and pink.

James Tandy Ellis is recognized throughout Kentucky and the country as a soldier, politician, musician, author and poet. He published several novels concerning Kentucky life, and numerous poems. His singular wit and keen insight into the foibles of human nature earned him national recognition for his newspaper column "Tang of the South". He also served as Adjutant General of Kentucky. Mr. Ellis died in his home in 1942. Make a reservation to learn more about this colorful man.

Today, the home of James Tandy Ellis is listed on the Kentucky and National register of historic homes. Built in 1863, it is a Federal style brick structure with walls "three" brick thick. BUSINESS PARTNERS David hendren and Rick Whitfill , purchased the home in March 2005 and after renovations re-opened in September 2005.

Enjoy a delightful and delicious breakfast in the lovely dining room, visit the General Butler State Park in nearby Carrollton, cross over the Ohio into Indiana and visit historic Madison with its' many antique shops and mansions. Travel through Switzerland County with its' beautiful hills and valleys, return to Kentucky via the Markland Dam and travel the backroads of Ghent and Amish country, returning to The Poet's House for another night of peacefulness and relaxation. A marina, located five miles from the Poet's House, is available for docking your boat. Arrangements can be made for guests to be met at the marina.

Local attractions include Kentucky Speedway for NASCAR just ten minutes from The Poet's House and the Belterra Casino just across the river in Switzerland County, Indiana.

THE POET'S HOUSE is located halfway between Cincinnati and Louisville off of Interstate 71 (take the Carrollton exit #44) and U.S. 42. If coming from Cincinnati, take the new exit #55 and exit on Hwy. 42. Turn left. Upon entering the City of Ghent, we are on the right. Approximately one hour from either city.

Upon your departure, relish the new feelings of rejuvenation you acquired. You can now "Take on the Day" with a new appreciation because you have visited THE POET'S HOUSE BED AND BREAKFAST and sat with James Tandy Ellis.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast of fresh fruit, bread, buiscuits, pancakes, breakfast meat platter including Country Ham, Bacon, Sausage, Cheese and Spinich Quiche, or Something Yummy for Breakfast. Assorted juices, coffee, and tea. Special diets are no problem. (i.e. salt free, dairy free, Adkins, heart smart etc.) Please let us know at reservation booking. You won't be disappointed.

Formal Dining Room

The Poet's House Bed and Breakfast has an onsite Chapel for convenience. We also offer a list of caterers and an in-house DJ. Some of our wedding packages include:

1 Room, 2 Nights, 10 People Elopment Special

Larger Weddings, please call inn at (502) 347-0135 for a wedding quote