Best known Pole Bean since 1864. Described by the USDA in 1907 as the best known and most widely grown pole bean in America, which is still true today. Introduced in 1864, Kentucky Wonder was also known as Old Homestead, Texas Pole and Improved Kentucky Wonder. The names for this bean are not uncommon, but the beans are still tender—with the well-known distinctive, delicious flavor, making them first-rate beans.