Like everything in Hart County, local traditions have been influenced by caves. You may wonder what caves could possibly have to do with basket making, but there is a direct link. As Dr. Middleton points out, baskets were a part of everyday life in Hart County from egg gathering to funeral baskets. But when Route 31 opened and tourists began rolling into Cave Country, local basket makers realized there was another use for their baskets. They lined the highway selling their handmade wares to tourists eager for a souvenir. Competition inspired excellence and innovation, two hallmarks of Hart County baskets to this day.
Hart County is not only the epicenter of white oak basketry, it is also famous for the skill and artistry of its quilters. Their hand stitched masterpieces are displayed at the Family Medical Center in Munfordville. You can also see painted reproductions of favorite patterns brightening the sides of barns throughout the county, a contemporary tradition known as the Quilt Trail that is documented by students of Bonnieville School.
Another contemporary expression of a Hart County tradition can be found in the story and music of the Warrior Poetes. If you like live music, attend one of the free weekly jams in Horse Cave.
Tom Chaney,
Storyteller "Poets and artists
of Horse Cave"
Sandra T. Wilson,
Executive Director, Hart County Tourist Commission "Basket making tradition"
Marissa Hale,
Musician "Warrior Poetes"
Douglas Paul Rich,
Basket Maker "Passing on the basket making tradition"
Tim Brewster,
Basket Maker
"Basket making contest
at the
Hart County Fair"
Dr. James Middleton,
Family Medical Center
Sponsor of Basket Making and Quilting Contests
Hart County Fair "Basket making at the Fair"
"Baskets in every day culture"
"Quilters and the
Family Medical Clinic"
Hart County quilts displayed
Local musicians in a jam session
Video on Bonnieville Elementary School Quilt Project
You may wonder what caves could possibly have to do with basket making, but there is a direct link. As Dr. Middleton points out, baskets were a part of everyday life in Hart County from egg gathering to funeral baskets. But when Route 31 opened and tourists began rolling into Cave Country, local basket makers realized there was another use for their baskets. They lined the highway selling their handmade wares to tourists eager for a souvenir. Competition inspired excellence and innovation, two hallmarks of Hart County baskets to this day. 
