Blue Heron, Kentucky, McCreary County is a ghost town that captures the imagination with its rich history and scenic surroundings. Known for its historical significance as a coal mining community, this site offers a glimpse into the past for those who tread its paths. Below is detailed information about the town.
County: McCreary County
Zip Code: Not available
Latitude / Longitude: 36.6670° N, 84.4700° W
Elevation: 879 feet (268 meters)
Time Zone: Eastern Time Zone (ET)
Established: 1937
Disestablished: 1962
Comments: Blue Heron, also known as Mine 18, was established as a coal mining community by the Stearns Coal and Lumber Company. It thrived during the mid-20th century, providing coal for the nation’s expanding industrial needs.
The community was built around the coal mine, which was the town’s lifeblood, offering employment and economic prosperity to its residents.
Remains: Today, Blue Heron is preserved as an outdoor museum within the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. The site features several restored and replicated structures, including a coal tipple, bathhouse, and other key buildings of the mining community.
Audio exhibits provide visitors with narratives from former residents and workers, bringing the town’s history to life.
Current Status: Blue Heron is a historical and recreational site managed by the National Park Service. It is accessible to the public for educational and recreational purposes, offering hiking trails, interpretive exhibits, and opportunities to explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding area.
Remarks: Blue Heron poignantly recalls the coal mining era in Kentucky and the challenges and triumphs of the people who once called it home. The site’s preservation allows visitors to engage with the town’s history and appreciate the natural beauty of the Big South Fork region.
