SHELBYVILLE, Ky. — Claudia Sanders Dinner House, the restaurant Colonel Sanders created for his beloved wife located in Shelbyville, Ky., is for sale, along with the trademark and likeness of the Claudia Sanders name.

The sale not only includes the restaurant and property, which was the primary residence of the Sanders for more than 25 years, but also memorabilia from the Sanders family, including Colonel Sanders’ original Kentucky Colonel certificate, a happy birthday letter from President Richard Nixon to Colonel Sanders, Colonel Sanders’ Bible, money clip, wristwatch, and many more historical items.

“Claudia was the unspoken hero of her husband’s success in business. And he wanted to honor her by creating Claudia Sanders Dinner House and associated brands,” said Jonathan Klunk, a listing agent, and family representative. “There is so much rich history included in this sale; it is exciting to think about the potential that lies ahead for the right buyer—to honor and protect this legacy and grow the brand even further.”

After their years in Corbin, the Colonel and Claudia moved to the Shelbyville property and opened Claudia Sanders Dinner House, which also served as the first KFC headquarters. Known for its famous yeast rolls, creamed spinach, pies, and Southern comfort cooking, Claudia Sanders Dinner House has been a staple of the Shelbyville community since its grand opening in 1959 and has built a legacy of its own in the heart of Kentucky, with visitors traveling from all over the world to visit. 
“The restaurant has only been owned by the Sanders and their close friends, the Settles. The Settles are now committed to finding the next caretaker of this historic brand that will not only fight to maintain its legacy, employees, and staple dishes here in this community, but potentially expand the Claudia Sanders brand nationwide,” said Morgan Hancock, another family representative and listing agent.