The Cutting Edge of Simpson County
Home to the "World's Largest Butter Knife," a 24-foot sculpture located within the whimsical Blackjack Sculpture Park.
"The Cutting Edge of Simpson County" is the official title of a monumental roadside attraction located in rural Franklin, Kentucky. Its centerpiece is the world's largest butter knife, a 24-foot-tall, 1,000-pound steel sculpture created in 2021. The piece serves as the anchor for the Blackjack Sculpture Park, a unique outdoor gallery of large-scale metal art.
The sculpture was designed and constructed by the welding students of Franklin Simpson High School, showcasing local vocational talent. Set in 4,000 pounds of concrete, the knife stands as a testament to student creativity and engineering skills, drawing road-trippers to this quiet corner of Simpson County.
Surrounded by rolling farmland, the site offers a distinct "roadside Americana" charm. It is open to the public 24 hours a day, providing free access to families and travelers looking for a memorable photo opportunity or a detour into local art culture.
Key Facts
- Location: 4433 Blackjack Rd, Franklin, KY 42134
- Creators: Franklin Simpson High School Welding Class
- Height: 24 feet
- Weight: 1,000 lbs (knife only)
- Park Name: Blackjack Sculpture Park
- Admission: Free, Open 24/7
Notable Features & Attributes
Student Craftsmanship
The massive steel knife was fabricated entirely by high school welding students, representing a community project that combines education with public art.
Park Collection
Beyond the knife, the site features eclectic student works including a functional glider-plane weathervane, a space capsule, and a truck perched on giant hay bales.
Whimsical Themes
The sculpture park emphasizes humor and visual puns, such as the literal "Needle in a Haystack" sculpture located on the grounds.
Giant Utensil Trail
The butter knife complements another nearby student creation, the "Fork in the Road," creating a thematic trail of giant utensils in Simpson County.
Visitor Information
Getting There The park is located at 4433 Blackjack Rd in a rural setting. The drive offers scenic views of the Kentucky countryside, adding to the road trip appeal of the destination.
Access & Hours The site is accessible 24 hours a day with free admission. On-site parking is available, making it convenient for quick stops or extended photo sessions.
Nearby Attraction Visitors are encouraged to extend their tour by visiting the "Fork in the Road," another giant utensil sculpture located just a few miles away, also crafted by the local high school welding class.
Local Context & Connections
This attraction highlights the creative output of Simpson County's vocational education programs.