The Restored Coal Town In Kentucky That Takes You Back In Time
By Andrea Limke|Published October 01, 2018
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Andrea Limke
Author
A Cincinnati native who has lived in Kentucky for over 10 years, Andrea's heart belongs both in the Queen City and the Bluegrass State. After earning an education degree and working in that field for a number of years, Andrea began to pursue her passion for writing over 6 years ago. Since then she has written for a number of print and online publications, as well as published a children's book.
It’s no secret that Kentucky was once a vital part of the mining industry and that there are still traces of these communities scattered across the state. Coal mining was a way of life for many Kentuckians and it’s fascinating to many today. Located in scenic McCreary County, one particular mining area has been restored for visitors to experience for themselves. The Blue Heron Mining Community is an intriguing coal town that takes you back in time to a fascinating piece of Kentucky history.
McCreary County is a destination in its own right in the southern portion of our state, not far from Tennessee. The county includes unbelievable natural beauty and much of that comes from the Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area.
Within this preserved, naturally stunning area you'll find a number of hiking trails and attractions, and one of the most unique is the Blue Heron Mining Community. Also known as Mine 18, this abandoned town was a part of the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company from 1937 to 1962.
During its time as an active coal community, hundreds of families worked and lived in the area. When it closed down in 1962, the property was left to deteriorate, which it did over the years until none of the original buildings remained. In the 1980s, the community was restored with "ghost buildings," which were built to closely resemble the original structures.
Today, the community acts as an outdoor museum and learning opportunity within the Big South Fork Area. In addition to the replica buildings, the Interpretive Center also offers audio programs to learn more about the mine. If you'd like to read more about the history, you can do so here.
There's actually quite a bit to experience during your time at the community that you'll want to block off at least an hour and a half to see it all. The outdoor museum is open year-round, while the Interpretive Center is open April 1 through October 31, Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you can, try and visit the mining community on a nice day. As it is an outdoor museum, that will make your visit more enjoyable, and will also allow for better access to all of the features.
If you have time, check out a few of the hiking trail options that stem from the property. We've called this area the most beautiful in Kentucky for a reason, and it's definitely worth exploring.
While you are welcome to drive to the community when you visit, there is another option that's quite unique. The Big South Fork Scenic Railway departs from the Stearns Depot and actually stops and lets you off at the Blue Heron Mining Community. With this excursion, you're able to experience the mine and see the natural beauty of the area, all aboard a nostalgic train. Learn more about these train rides here.
Mine 18 was a meaningful part of many Kentuckians' lives, and Big South Fork is putting forth every attempt to keep their spirit and hard work alive. This restored mining community is a fascinating spot in Kentucky and truly takes you back in time, and right in the middle of our state's beautiful landscape.
The Blue Heron Mining Community is one of many destinations in McCreary County that makes this one of the most interesting and beautiful areas of our state. Have you visited this restored coal town? Did you take the train or drive yourself? Let us know in the comments!
The Blue Heron Community & Interpretive Center is located on Blue Heron Road in Stearns, Kentucky. For more information, visit here and scroll down to the Blue Heron section.
And for another coal mining experience, check out our Eastern Kentucky Road Trip in a previous article here.
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