The Story of Mustard Seed Hill
Like a tiny mustard seed, Millersburg will grow once more.
Recent Updates:
From Legacy to Landmark: How Mustard Seed Hill is Revitalizing Millersburg
September 17th, 2024
A quiet town, a rich history, and a legacy brought to life—Millersburg is undergoing a remarkable transformation. At the heart of this renewal is Mustard Seed Hill, where new beginnings take root and small efforts lead to great things. What’s the spark behind this change?
Discover the vision, the stories, and the inspiration behind it all. Click here to read how a historic property is turning into a beacon of celebration and growth.
Where it all began...
The Beginning
1852
The recorded history of the property dates to 1852 when William Nunn established his impressive, Greek Revival home, commonly referred to as the Allen House.
The Millersburg Military Institute
1920
In 1920, the citizens of Millersburg purchased the dwelling so Millersburg Military Institute (MMI) could return to the town. They added a number of buildings, including Moffett Hall, Rankin Hall and a gymnasium. MMI was an icon of Kentucky private education for 113 years, graduating generations of young men, many of whom still hold it in their hearts as a special part of their personal growth and education.
The Restoration
2016
In 2016, Community Ventures purchased the property, which was abandoned and in rapid decline. A Kentucky-based non-profit, our mission is to improve the state’s quality of life. We create opportunities where needed most through affordable financing, education, and neighborhood revitalization. With the property’s gymnasium, dorms, sports fields, and stately manor, not to mention its proud history, we saw its potential. Extensive restoration has prepared the grounds for a new life and unbounded growth. By bringing our collective expertise and resources together, we will transform Mustard Seed Hill into a promising future to benefit all who grace our gates or reside in our region.
The Faith of a Mustard Seed
Now
Mustard Seed Hill is now home to Mustard Seed Hill Events, Bourbon Christian Academy, American Senior Benefits, Miracles Bakery, Our Journey Westward, and one of Community Ventures’ six offices. We are excited for what the future holds and welcome you to be part of making the next 166 years as historic as the past. We truly believe that the faith needed to do great things is very small indeed and that at Mustard Seed Hill even the smallest of moments will become treasured memories.
The Campus
Mustard Seed Hill is a historic southern estate wedding venue in Kentucky, restored to its original glory and upgraded to provide modern amenities for every type of event.
The Allen House
This 11-room National Historic Landmark makes an immediate statement standing tall at the center of Mustard Seed Hill. The first floor of the house features an event room, billiards room, groom’s quarters and a historic bar. The historic bar area is a stand-alone room that is accessible through the groom’s quarters and billiards room. The second floor of the Allen House features the bridal suite, honeymoon suite and two guest bedrooms.
.jpg)
PERFECTION! That is the word that best describes what Mustard Seed Hill has to offer and provides. The grounds are absolutely stunning, the house is any photographers dream, the bridal suite is gorgeous and I couldn’t imagine a more perfect place for a bride to get ready, and the staff is absolutely amazing. They went above and beyond what was required and helped out ALL day as well as the day before for rehearsal. They will truly do everything in their power to make your day as stress free and happy as possible.
Jaclyn & Aaron Sierp
Recent Updates:
From Legacy to Landmark: How Mustard Seed Hill is Revitalizing Millersburg
September 17th, 2024 by Madeline Diane.
Nestled in the heart of Millersburg, Kentucky, Mustard Seed Hill is transforming into a beacon of revitalization and community connection, thanks to the vision and leadership of Community Ventures, led by CEO Kevin Smith. This initiative, which is bringing new life to the once-quiet town, is made possible through the collaborative efforts of many, including Victoria Benson, whose work in arts administration and community development has helped guide Mustard Seed Hill toward becoming a premier destination for events, celebrations, and community experiences.
​
Victoria Benson’s journey to Mustard Seed Hill was deeply personal. After the passing of her father, Myron Agnew, a longtime Property Director for Community Ventures, Victoria was drawn to continue his legacy of community building and economic revitalization. Myron had been instrumental in preserving key parts of the Mustard Seed Hill campus, such as the historic Gymnasium, and played a significant role in other Community Ventures initiatives like the Rural Homeownership Program and the Artist Village. His commitment to the idea that even small efforts can lead to great outcomes became a cornerstone of the vision for Mustard Seed Hill’s future.
​​
In July 2022, Myron passed away at MD Anderson Cancer Center in Texas, leaving behind a legacy that was deeply felt by his family and community. When Victoria was presented with the opportunity to step into a leadership role at Mustard Seed Hill, she knew it was a chance to honor her father’s work and carry forward the mission that had been such a significant part of his life.
​
Taking on the role wasn’t easy, but Victoria was prepared. With a background in arts administration from the University of Kentucky, and experience as the former director of the Woodland Art Fair, Victoria brought a wealth of knowledge in fundraising, event planning, marketing, and strategic planning. She is also a fellow of the Caren S. Franzini Fellowship with the Council of Development Finance Agencies, which has provided her with the tools to further contribute to Community Ventures' mission of revitalizing communities like Millersburg.
​
Since stepping into her role, Victoria has worked alongside a talented and dedicated team, including Stephen Furnish, Scotty True, and Shawn Burns, who had been leading much of the development at Mustard Seed Hill before transitioning to another role within Community Ventures. Partnering with marketing consultant and brand strategist Madeline Diane, Victoria has continued to build on the vision for Mustard Seed Hill, expanding the campus into a vibrant community hub.
​
One of the most exciting projects under Victoria’s leadership has been the continued growth of Christmas at Mustard Seed Hill. What began as a small holiday event has grown into one of Kentucky’s most beloved Christmas traditions, drawing thousands of visitors each year to enjoy a breathtaking light display, a renowned gingerbread house competition, and an Artisan’s Market that showcases the work of local craftspeople. This year, Christmas at Mustard Seed Hill is taking a significant leap forward with the introduction of a concert showcase, featuring Grammy-nominated artist Anne Wilson and Emmy-winning musician and composer Ben Sollee.
​
But Mustard Seed Hill is more than just a holiday destination. Throughout the year, the campus hosts weddings, community events, and special celebrations. The historic Allen House, with its elegant architecture and rich history, has become a sought-after venue for couples looking to create unforgettable wedding experiences. The addition of Helena’s Cottage, sometimes called the Honeymoon Cottage, has provided eternal newlyweds with a cozy and charming retreat for rest and rejuvenation.
“This is a calling, a way to continue my father’s work and honor his legacy,” Victoria says. “He believed that even the smallest efforts can lead to great things. I’m proud to carry on that mission.”
​
Community Ventures' vision for Mustard Seed Hill is clear: to create a space where people can gather, celebrate, and connect. Whether it’s a wedding, a community event, or the annual Christmas celebration, Mustard Seed Hill is quickly becoming a destination for people from all over Kentucky and beyond.
​​
Visitors are drawn to the campus not just for its history but for the sense of community and connection that Community Ventures, Victoria, and her team have cultivated. Mustard Seed Hill is a place where past and present come together, where tradition meets innovation, and where small beginnings can truly lead to something great.
​
As Christmas at Mustard Seed Hill continues to grow, with new offerings like carriage rides, gingerbread classes, and expanded light displays, the future looks brighter than ever for this small Kentucky town. But as Victoria knows, it’s not just about the big events—it’s about the everyday moments that make a place truly special.
​
“This isn’t just a project—it’s a legacy,” Victoria says. “I’m honored to be a part of it and to continue building something that will last for generations to come.”
​​
To learn more about Mustard Seed Hill, its events, and Community Ventures' inspiring vision for the future: explore our website, subscribe to our free newsletter, and discover how you can be a part of this growing community.
Because at Mustard Seed Hill, we believe that even from small things, great things can happen.