www.letchercountykentucky.net

Complete History Of Kentucky Coal Mining

admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

The history of Kentucky coal mining appears to have evolved following the discovery of coal in Virginia around 1701 by Thomas Walker, a physician, who experimented with these ‘black rocks’ in seeking ways to use them other than in the production of horseshoes. Under the auspices of the Loyal Land Company formed around 1750, Dr. Walker went to Kentucky in search of coal.

The first commercial mine is believed to have opened around 1820 with the production reaching 2,000 tons by 1830 ultimately increasing to 1 million tons by 1879. The growth of coal mining in Kentucky continued with supply efforts being increased by demand for its use during World War I resulting in over 20 million tons extracted. World War II demand raised this figure to approximately 72.4 million tons.

A member of Kentucky’s McLean family found coal in a farm field around 1913. Even though coal was harder to acquire than wood, in 1943 this family opened the ‘McLean drift bank’ which generated a plethora of competitive mining operations. Had it not been for the formation of Kentucky Coal Association in 1947, Kentucky might not have become the number one coal-producing state in the United States in 1972.

Coal Mining: A Way Of Life In Kentucky

admin — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000

There are few occupations that stir images of the hard working American more than that of a coal miner. While coal mines are found in several different locations around the country, one of the prime areas for this industry is the state of Kentucky. Coal mining has been a way of life for generations of people in Kentucky and it continues today. While coal mining jobs are considered one of the more dangerous jobs a person can have, in the past, it was even more risky. Work was always dangerous in the coal mines of Kentucky. Neglectful mine owners ignored the safety of their miners in order to pull more coal out of the ground. With archaic equipment, the work was hard and the pay was minimal. In addition, with the health risk of coal mining, most notably Black Lungs, few miners back in the early years of mining ever had the chance to see retirement.

Today, the industry has changed considerably. While this job is still considered extremely dangerous, the average age of a coal miner is 45. The average pay for a coal miner in Kentucky is over 700.00 per week. While improved ventilation and protective gear has lowered the rate of miners contracting Black Lung disease, it is estimated that over 400 miners each year die from this occupational disease.

Annual Kentucky Black Bear Festival In Downtown Cumberland

admin — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 +0000

The Annual Kentucky Black Bear Festival is not only for bear watchers or people who love wildlife. It is also a cultural event full of crafts, storytelling, dancing, and music. Most of the festival’s activities are located in Kingdom Come State Park, while other activities are held in Isaac Memorial Park. People can visit the two venues to enjoy the cultural activities, and also, fishing, a car and truck show, archery, rides, educational exhibits, and delicious food.

Lovers of regional crafts will love the exhibits of local artist and craftsman. Vendors setup displays of traditional mountain artistry made of wood, or, sewing, paintings, and photography. At a past festival, children were able to express their creativity by painting a giant wildlife mural. Storytelling is another popular event at the festival. Storytellers tell tales from the Revolutionary War and folktales popular to the region. Local dancers from the academy display there talents with regional dances. And, in the evening, music by local bands fill the air.

The yearly festival is a local favorite for people of all ages. Adults love the event for the fishing. And, children love the festival for its rides, and of course, a possible Black Bear sighting.

In and Around Letcher County

admin — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 00:00:00 +0000

You’re missing out if you’ve never been to the foothills of Kentucky and near Letcher County is the best place to try first. There are great restaurants and attractions here for outdoor fans of all ages so get a www.homesecuritysystem.com security system, pack everyone in the car and get out there!
Historic Downtown Whitesburg: It’s on the National Register of Historic Places and it makes for such a quaint day trip. Grab some ice cream or a homemade donut and shop for leathergoods or art here in Whitesburg.
Highlands Winery: If it’s a romantic trip you’ve been looking for the winery at Highlands is bound to please. Taste some local vintages and walk among the grape vines – it’s a beautiful way to spend a Saturday afternoon in the heart of Kentucky.
Pound Gap Road Cut: Known as the “most remarkable outcropping in the US” the Pound Gap Road Cut is a geological wonder. Sign up for a tour or head there in your car – whatever you do don’t forget to charge the camera batteries first! This one is a real showstopper.

Most Notable Residents Of Harlan County

admin — Wed, 07 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Harlan County Kentucky. Home to many residents but most of them aren’t notable or famous. The NBA has hosted a few of the more notable residents such as Bernie Bickerstaff who is the current assistant coach to the Chicago Bulls and is a former head coach in such places as Seattle, Denver and Washington Wah Wah Jones in another NBA alumni that called Harlan County home.
Music is another collector of Harlan County residents such as Nick Lachey of 98 Degrees and ex-husband to Jessica Simpson. Florence Reece, who wrote the union anthem “Which Side Are You On?” which was recently covered by Natalie Merchant, and Jerry Chestnut, an inductee of the Nashville songwriter hall of fame.
Writers are another product of Harlan County. Such notable writers include Rebecca Caudill, who is Newberry honoree, Maxine Cheshire, a journalist for not only the Knoxville News Sentinel but also more famous news venues such as Time magazine and The Washington Post, and George Ella Lyon, noted poet and author of over 30 book for both adults and children.
Harlan County Kentucky has many residents, both famous and not so famous but all love their home and wear their background with great pride.

Great All Terrain Vehicle Riding Sites

admin — Sat, 03 Sep 2011 00:00:00 +0000

If you are looking for a great place to ride your ATVs with family and friends then you should consider Letcher County in Kentucky. There are many great spots to ride. You will also find many other things to do there. The Letcher County web site provides information on a variety of things that would be of interest to a family visiting the area. This includes articles on the cities and towns in the area, the local culture as well as landmarks and historical information. Of course, if you are like my family and most others in America, then you will also want to know about local attractions. I don’t think that most people know that Letcher County was home to one of the “little Italy” neighborhoods, which was founded by Italian stonemasons and their families. I personally like festivals, and Letcher County has its annual Mountain Heritage Festival in August and September. This is a county wide festival that concludes with a parade. This area also has many good hiking and nature preserves. Don’t just take my word for it, go visit and see what they have to offer. You will be happy you did. Keep on riding ya’ll.Still bored? Click to continue: A Great Day to Get Wet!

Notable Films Made In Harlan County

admin — Tue, 30 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Notable films made in Harlan county, Ky include 2 of the most moving films I have ever seen. One of which being a documentary called “Harlan County USA”. This film depicts the lives of coal miners and their families in a way that no one else would understand. This documentary took me deep in to the long strike in 1973 at Brookside Mine. Probably one of the most violent strikes to take place over what any American worker wants – Job Security! Over worked employees, doing an amazingly dangerous job, risking there lives and health and all they ask in return is a union? I found how these people were treated highly disturbing. I saw workers with black lung disease, men being shot at just for picketing, people being spit on just for wanting decent wages and fair working conditions. This documentary was also followed by another eye-opener, also titled, “Harlan County USA” was another great example of just how horrible this whole situation really was. I sat through both and found myself utterly horrified that things like this can happen. I think both of these films are worthy of sitting and watching and would gladly watch them both again.

Most Notable Residents Of Letcher County

admin — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Harry M. Caudill was born May 3 1922 in Whitesburg, Letcher county, Kentucky. Harry was an author who wrote “Night Comes to the Cumberlands”. This book made people aware of the poverty in Appalachia. Harry served three terms as a state representative in Kentucky. He also taught history at the University of Kentucky.

Emery L. Frazier was born January 24 1896. He was elected in 1922 to the Kentucky House of Representatives. Emery also served as mayor of Whitesburg KY. He was appointed reading clerk of the Democratic National Convention in 1932. In 1948 Emery was appointed chief clerk of the United States senate. Emery took the position of secretary of the United States senate in 1966.

Gary Stewart was born May 28 1944 in Jenkins, Letcher county, KY. Gary was a country singer who Time magazines called “King of the honky tonk”. Gary had the number one hit song on the country charts “She’s Acting Single”. He was also a songwriter.

Martha Carson was born March 19, 1921 in Neon, KY. She was most noted for gospel singing. She toured with singers Ferlin Husky, Jimmy Dickens and Elvis Presley. Martha made an appearance on the Steve Allen Show in 1957. She also appeared on the Tennessee Ernie Ford television show.