For centuries, Kentuckians have been smoking and salt curing county hams for their families out of necessity.  Two local businesses in Muhlenberg County have continued these traditions with 4-Hers, for two decades.  

In the early 2000’s, Leslie Scott, of Scott Hams, offered a new experience for Muhlenberg County 4-Her’s.   Under the lead of former 4-H Agent, Tommy Harrison, hundreds of 4-Hers discovered a new experience that has been around since before the birth of our state in 1972. Mr. Scott invested his time, knowledge, and business by opening his doors to 4-H.   Through Mr. Scott’s passion, youth gained an in-depth understanding of the time-honored tradition over a span of eight months by way of the 4-H Country Ham Project.   

Beginning in the fridged temperatures in January, youth selected their two hams and began with their first salt-rub.  After weeks of rest and repeated practices, youth continued the processes of curing their hams with Mr. Scott until the time came to hang the hams in the smoke house.   After learning the hands-on process of the project, youth enter their hams into Kentucky State Fair where they are judged on their aroma, size and cleanliness, and shape.  In addition, youth present a speech to judges on a given topic such as, the history of country ham, or how to market county ham. The Kentucky 4-H Country Ham Project began in 1995 with 42 participants and now has over 800 4-Hers involved.  

In 2016, Charlie Gatton, of Fathers Country Hams, opened his business’ doors to 4-H by continuing the Country Ham Project.  Mr. Gatton worked closely with 4-Hers to teach them his family’s traditions dating back to 1840.  Father’s Country Hams pride themselves on quality, taste, and tradition, teaching 4-Hers how cure hams with a sugar and brown sugar method reducing the excessive salt flavor found in market.

Aside from learning the country ham curing process, 4-Hers have gained life-skills they will carry with them throughout their student, and adult careers.  Through the speech portion of the program, 4-Hers learn how to plan and organize their thoughts while writing their speech.  The final component of the project is a speech at the Kentucky State Fair.  Mastering public speaking at a young age empowers youth to express themselves.  Public speaking is a vital life skill that enhances confidence and prepares youth for success and impactful contributions.  

Approximately 200 Muhlenberg County youth have participated in the 4-H Country Ham Project over the span of twenty years. Titles were won and ribbons were awarded, but we are most thankful for Mr. Scott and Mr. Gatton for taking time to work one-on-one with our youth through the years, giving them a unique opportunity they will forever cherish.  Leslie Scott with 4-Hers 2011 4-H Country Ham Project members with Leslie Scott and Tommy HarrisonCharlie Gatton with 4-Hers Stella Reese and Jude Gardner at the KY State Fair August 20222023 4-H Country Ham Project Members