About Owsley Fork Writers Sanctuary
Owsley Fork Writers Sanctuary is housed on 30 acres in Berea, Kentucky, near Big Hill, a rural enclave about seven miles from town. Linda Bryant-Davis bought the property from bell hooks in 2019. She fell in love with the place which is gorgeous and peaceful at first sight and vowed to honor bell’s legacy by establishing Owsley Fork Writers Sanctuary.
The sanctuary has a lodge house with two bedrooms and two bathrooms and two side cabins. It's set up to house individual artists for up to three weeks. It can also host workshops and retreats.
The woods that surround the sanctuary which take up about 25 acres, are teaming with wildlife, indigenous plants and hiking trails. Linda's husband, Coleman Davis, has carved two miles of trails that loop and meander through the woods. As part of his education in the woods, he has begun the reintroduction of Appalachian ephemerals and medicinals. He now runs Owsley Fork Forest Farm.
Voices from the Sanctuary
In my stays there, I’ve found Owsley Fork Writers Sanctuary one of the most magical places in the world. The cabin is cozy and comfortable, but even better is what’s just outside: some of the most magnificent and inspiring views I’ve ever seen. It’s impossible to look out at the Owsley Fork Reservoir, or beyond it to Big Hill, and not feel blessed and grateful to be there. I’ve done some of my best work here, as a poet and photographer, because of the sheer beauty and wonder and serenity of the place. It is truly a sanctuary, in all senses of the word.
Kevin Nance
poet, journalist, photographer
Perched on the side of pinnacles and at the soaring altitude of hawks it’s easy to get into a creative headspace at the Owsley Fork Sanctuary. There are plenty of options for comfortable workspaces inside, or outside on some incredible hiking trails. Linda and Coleman are great hosts, available to make your stay as cozy as possible. Unbelievable views make waking up sipping coffee on the front porch an unforgettable experience.
Dustin Cecil
painter, broommaker, poet
