The small towns scattered across Kentucky range from quiet neighborhoods on the river to mountain towns that have had their ups and downs over the years. Every town in Kentucky has a story and most of them are still writing the pages of their fascinating lives. If you grew up in small town Kentucky, then you probably have a fondness in your heart for these places – their struggles, triumphs, and history of community. One tiny mountain town in Kentucky has seen all of these. Jenkins sits right along the Kentucky/Virginia border and this little town remains a beautiful place in our state.

The town of Jenkins sits near the Pound Gap of Pine Mountain in eastern Kentucky.
@larryeplingmedia, Contributed Photo
Surrounded by trees, water, and rising mountains, this is a unique spot that many wouldn't even imagine would be in Kentucky.
Jenkins is right on the border of Virginia, which to many, is known more for its mountainous terrain.
Google/Robert P
In many ways this town is fairly typical of other small cities in Kentucky, but it has a long and interesting history that has very much shaped the way the town was formed.
In 1911, a coal company known as Consol purchased this land and began to plan a town around their needs for coal mining.
Wikipedia/Ben Shahn
Hundreds of homes and other buildings were needed for the people who would be hired to work for the company, so they built several sawmills and even brought in machinery to make bricks. Unlike many other towns, Jenkins was built because of the company and really didn't exist beforehand.

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You can learn all about the history of mining in Jenkins at the David A. Zegeer Coal Railroad Museum.
GoogleMaps
Because of the thriving coal and railroad industries, the population of Jenkins rose to around 10,000. Today there are about 2,000 residents.
The dynamics of the town changed quite a bit when Consol decided to sell the town in 1947.
Wikipedia/Nyttend
You can only imagine the fear and uncertainty these Kentuckians must have felt, not knowing what would happen to their town, their jobs, and their homes. Many local families today can share stories from previous generations and how the area has drastically changed over the years.
Despite its ups and downs, Jenkins remains a lovely town with many beautiful natural features.
Google/Matthew Arnett
Elkhorn Lake sits right near the heart of town and is a welcome sight for those looking to relax and be outside.
From up above, Jenkins appears as a charming, tiny mountain town in Kentucky.
@larryeplingmedia, Contributed Photo
And it is just that, but it also has a long and interesting history that has shaped its community for generations.

This tiny mountain town in Kentucky has been through a lot over the past century and it still remains as one of the last stops along the border toward Virginia. The history here runs deep and the natural beauty is undeniable, so if you’re ever in the area, stop through and experience one of the countless, character-filled small towns in Kentucky. Are you familiar with the town of Jenkins? What’s another tiny mountain town in Kentucky you love? Let us know in the comments!

For more on the town of Jenkins, read through some of its history and take a look at these old photos of the area.

And if you need another reason to visit this region of Kentucky, check out these incredible scenic overlooks.

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Jenkins, KY, USA