William McCoy, Sr.
Noted local attorney. Born at Pleasant, 1873. Read law, was admitted to bar in 1896. Martin County attorney, 1906-1914. Considered an expert on old land patents and deeds of eastern Ky. Interest in education led to appointment by Gov. Flem Sampson as a commissioner on first State Textbook Commission, 1928. Promoted education as great hope for county. Died, 1950.
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Lewis Dempsey - Financier and developer of this region. He was born in 1852, near Warfield. Founded Inez Deposit Bank and served as its president for 33 years. Owned vast coal and timber lands which he kept for the county's future development. Often loaned money to promising young people for education and helped start many in business. He died here in 1937
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Kentucky was the site of many important battles during the American Civil War, including the Battle of Perryville, which was the largest battle fought in the state.
About Martin County
Martin County Timeline
Martin County, located in eastern Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to the early Native American inhabitants. The area was initially occupied by the Cherokee and Shawnee tribes, who relied on the rich natural resources and fertile valleys for sustenance. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive in the region, establishing a presence and influencing the cultural and economic landscape of Martin County.
During the early 19th century, Martin County saw a surge in coal mining activity, attracting a diverse population of immigrants seeking employment opportunities. The discovery of extensive coal deposits revolutionized the local economy and brought significant growth to the area. As coal mining became the dominant industry, railroads were constructed to transport the valuable resource, connecting Martin County to larger markets and contributing to its prosperity.
Despite periods of economic success, Martin County also faced challenges. The region bore witness to the devastating impacts of the Great Depression, causing widespread unemployment and poverty. In 1945, a catastrophic flood struck Martin County, resulting in significant infrastructure damage and loss of life. The flood led to the construction of the Martin County Dam, aiming to prevent future disasters and stabilize the local economy.
Modern Martin County continues to be a predominantly rural community, with a focus on agriculture, coal mining, and outdoor recreation. The county's picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Appalachian Mountains and the Tug Fork River, attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Today, Martin County strives to balance the preservation of its natural beauty with sustainable economic development, ensuring a prosperous future for its residents.
During the early 19th century, Martin County saw a surge in coal mining activity, attracting a diverse population of immigrants seeking employment opportunities. The discovery of extensive coal deposits revolutionized the local economy and brought significant growth to the area. As coal mining became the dominant industry, railroads were constructed to transport the valuable resource, connecting Martin County to larger markets and contributing to its prosperity.
Despite periods of economic success, Martin County also faced challenges. The region bore witness to the devastating impacts of the Great Depression, causing widespread unemployment and poverty. In 1945, a catastrophic flood struck Martin County, resulting in significant infrastructure damage and loss of life. The flood led to the construction of the Martin County Dam, aiming to prevent future disasters and stabilize the local economy.
Modern Martin County continues to be a predominantly rural community, with a focus on agriculture, coal mining, and outdoor recreation. The county's picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Appalachian Mountains and the Tug Fork River, attract tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. Today, Martin County strives to balance the preservation of its natural beauty with sustainable economic development, ensuring a prosperous future for its residents.
Martin County Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Martin County, Kentucky.
- 1822: Martin County was established as a county in Kentucky.
- 1870: Eastern Kentucky State Normal School was established in Paintsville, which later became the site for Big Sandy Community and Technical College.
- 1886: The town of Inez was incorporated.
- 1924: The first oil well in Martin County was drilled, leading to an oil boom in the area.
- 1937-1942: The construction of the Paintsville Lake began, providing flood protection and recreational opportunities for the area.
- 1954: A massive flood devastated Martin County, causing significant damage and loss of life.
- 1973: The Buckeye Coal Mine disaster occurred, resulting in the deaths of 10 miners.
- 2000: The Martin County water crisis occurred, due to a mismanaged coal slurry impoundment, resulting in contaminated drinking water for thousands of residents.
- 2018: The reopening of the Martin County Airport, providing improved transportation options for the community.