HOLTON, KS. (KSNT) – As the world opens up again, a Holton store invites people from near and far to sample their cuisine, visit a piece of history, and maybe even meet a ghost.
The Hotel Josephine reopened eight months ago, owned by Sara Fox.
“The visitors we have, whether they’re local, out of town or from another country, there is something for everyone to be interested in,” said Fox. “Many come for the architecture or the history.”
The building is 131 years old and former President Grover Cleveland’s signature is just a name on her guest book.
“And then people come for the ghosts too,” Fox said.
Many people come to spend time with the supernatural, hang out in the basement at night, or soak up the ancient beauty of their rooms and wait for interaction.
While it has old charm and special tenants, there is so much more in the kitchen. Her family has focused on showcasing local farming through the Oak Roots farm-to-table restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Every Saturday you can find yourself at the farmers market just around the corner in Holton Square. Herbs are also grown on site.
The butter is also made in-house. The bread is provided by Wheatfields Bakery in Lawrence.
“They bought bison and elk locally and of course we always offer prime beef,” says Fox.
They work with three wineries in our area and plan to double that number by the summer. Wilcott Brewing Co. is a new Holton brewery and is also offered in the restaurant.
If you’re the designated driver, you can even find an old school vending machine and maybe a ghost trying to quench your thirst.
There is live music and comedy events on the weekends. You can also take the family on a horse-drawn carriage ride on Fridays.
