Sheep were among the first animals domesticated by humans nearly 10,000 years ago, and their meat — mutton — has been enjoyed worldwide for centuries. What makes mutton unique in Owensboro, however, is the deep-rooted tradition and history that surround it.
If you didn’t know, back in the 1800s, Daviess County was a large sheep farming community as it was settled by Welsh immigrants. Farmers in the area raised sheep primarily for wool, but once the sheep grew too old to shear, farmers discovered the value of mutton. Mutton then became central to the local food tradition!
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, mutton became popular within the Catholic churches in the area. Slow-cooked mutton became the highlight of these gatherings because it was inexpensive, plentiful, and could easily feed large crowds! Alongside barbecued mutton, Owensboro also gained fame for burgoo, a hearty stew made with vegetables and shredded mutton. These traditions helped earn Owensboro its reputation as the Barbecue Capital of the World. Even today, mutton remains a local favorite, served at church picnics, iconic restaurants like Moonlite, Old Hickory, and Ole South, and celebrated at events such as BBQ and Barrels.