Muhlenberg County, Kentucky
Encyclopedia
Muhlenberg County is a county located in the U.S. state
of Kentucky
. As of the 2010 Census, the population was 31,499. The county is named for Peter Muhlenberg
. Its county seat is Greenville
.
The Central City
Micropolitan Statistical Area includes all of Muhlenberg County. Central City
is the largest city in the county with a 2010 Census of 5,978 residents.
region of Kentucky
. According to the 2010 census, the county has a total area of 479.43 square miles (1,241.7 km²), of which 474.72 square miles (1,229.5 km²) (or 99.02%) is land and 4.71 square miles (12.2 km²) (or 0.98%) is water.
and Lake Malone
. The northern portion of the county is typically gently rolling hills, river flatlands, and some sizeable bald cypress swamps along Cypress Creek and its tributaries. The southern portion consist of rolling hills with higher relief. Many of the valleys in the southern part of the county are rather deep and in places and somewhat rugged. This area is also known for many sandstone
formations and some small limestone
caves, of which only two known limestone
caves are thought to be in the county, both in the far southern region. A number of faults cross the county at roughly the half-way point between neighboring counties to the north and south. Coal has been, and continues to be, a large natural resource found in the central portion of the county. Most deposits reside deep underground where in the past, the deposits were closer to the surface. In the recent past, it was common to see machines such as the "Big Brother" Power Shovel (pictured on the right) throughout the county. During the 1970s and early 1980s, Muhlenberg County was the state leader in Coal Production and in some cases, the top producer of coal in the United States.
Muhlenberg County's predominate rock type is sandstone
. As one travels south and gets closer to the southern border, one begins to notice limestone
outcroppings become more numerous and much closer to the surface. Early attempts at extracting iron ore were tried at Old Airdrie on the banks of the Green River
and at Buckner Furnace south of Greenville, Kentucky
. Both operations were in operation in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Neither of which were successful in the long run.
. It provides a commercial outlet for goods (primarily coal
) to be shipped from the county to the major trade centers along the Mississippi River
. Muhlenberg County and the Green River first entered the popular conscience due to the John Prine
song "Paradise
", which was popularized by John Denver
, about a now-defunct coal-mining town in Muhlenberg County.
While John Denver may have aided in the popularity, the song gained most of its popularity from loyal Prine fans in the midwest.
. Lake Malone is maintained by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. The lakes surface extends into two neighboring counties. The lake is known for its sandstone
cliffs and natural sandstone
formations along the lake shore including a natural bridge
. The bridge itself is not in the boundaries of the state park.
of 2010, there were 31,499 people, 12,979 households, and 9,057 families residing in the county. The population density
was 67 /sqmi. There were 13,675 housing units at an average density of 29 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the county was 94.19% White
, 4.65% Black
or African American
, 0.13% Native American
, 0.13% Asian
, 0.19% from other races
, and 0.72% from two or more races. 0.73% of the population were Hispanic
or Latino
of any race.
There were 12,979 households out of which 30.70% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.70% were married couples
living together, 10.40% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.70% were non-families. 24.30% of all households were made up of individuals and 12.60% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.90.
In the county the population was spread out with 22.60% under the age of 18, 9.20% from 18 to 24, 28.00% from 25 to 44, 24.80% from 45 to 64, and 15.50% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 98.00 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.20 males.
The median income for a household in the county was $28,566, and the median income for a family was $33,513. Males had a median income of $29,952 versus $18,485 for females. The per capita income
for the county was $14,798. About 15.50% of families and 19.70% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.00% of those under age 18 and 17.00% of those age 65 or over.
-producing region for the United States for many years. In fact, during most of the 1970s Muhlenberg County annually produced more coal
than anywhere else in the world. It led the state of Kentucky in coal
production throughout the 1970s and even into the early 1980s before falling off. Although the use of coal
waned in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as the 21st Century rolled around, the coal-mining industry in Muhlenberg and surrounding counties began to expand again and has once again provided a significant number of jobs in the region. One reason for this is the willingness of utility operators to install flue gas cleaning systems so that Bituminous Coal
can be burned much cleaner than in decades past. Another reason is that coal
from "out west" tends to burn cooler, thus causing a utility to have to buy larger quantities of western coal
and mix (or "Blend") it with other compounds or other types of coal
. This has proven to be an issue with many East Coast Utility Operators. Muhlenberg County is the home of Kentucky's first commercial coal
mine. That mine, while not what one would think of today, opened in 1820 as the "McLean Drift Bank". It was located along the Green River
in the former village of Paradise
. The mine and its impact on the community are referenced in the John Prine song Paradise
. Other major employers in Muhlenberg County have supplemented the coal
industry or expanded in other areas of expertise. Those industry's include:
and Greenville
merged to form the Greater Muhlenberg Chamber of Commerce. The new, unified chamber consists of over 155 local businesses.
's new Thoroughbred Energy Plant, a coal-burning power generation facility expected to bring 450 permanent jobs to the area, is to be located in Central City
. The plant was projected to begin electricity generation sometime in 2007, but a dispute over Peabody's air quality permit has halted construction plans. The power plant plans have now been scrapped and instead, a new partnership between Peabody Energy
and ConocoPhillips
Oil Company called, "Kentucky NewGas" has been formed. Kentucky NewGas is a state-of-the-art energy center that will transform Kentucky coal into clean natural gas, while creating 500 long-term jobs and $100 million in annual economic benefits. The location of this new, large state-of-the-art facility is on the outskirts of Central City
close to the Green River
. More information about the project can be found on their website: Kentucky NewGas
On April 25, 2006, frozen food company Gourmet Express announced plans to locate a facility in Greenville
. The company has renovated the facility vacated by food distribution company SuperValu
in 2001, and is in the process of creating up to 200 permanent jobs.
is located in Central City.
The Muhlenberg Career Development Center
is located between Central City & Greenville.
service.
These libraries have been joined together as Muhlenberg County Library, although both locations remain open.
In 2004, the school board began consolidating the badly deteriorating elementary schools, closing Graham Elementary School and transferring students to Longest Elementary School and the expanded Greenville Elementary School, and closing Lake Malone School
transferring those students to Hughes-Kirkpatrick Elementary School. Consolidation continued in 2005 with the closure of Drakesboro Elementary School. Students from Drakesboro spent a year at Hughes-Kirkpatrick Elementary School until the opening of the newly constructed Muhlenberg South Elementary School in 2006 (and subsequent closing of Hughes-Kirkpatrick.)
On February 5, 2008, three communities in Muhlenberg County received major damage during the 2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak
. These communities were Greenville, Powderly, and Central City. Three residents were killed outside Greenville when the EF-3 tornado struck.
In November 2008 the Muhlenberg County school board announced that both Muhlenberg South High School and Muhlenberg North High School will combine and no longer be the Suns and Stars but will be Muhlenberg County High School home of the Mustangs. The change took effect in June 2009.
U.S. state
A U.S. state is any one of the 50 federated states of the United States of America that share sovereignty with the federal government. Because of this shared sovereignty, an American is a citizen both of the federal entity and of his or her state of domicile. Four states use the official title of...
of Kentucky
Kentucky
The Commonwealth of Kentucky is a state located in the East Central United States of America. As classified by the United States Census Bureau, Kentucky is a Southern state, more specifically in the East South Central region. Kentucky is one of four U.S. states constituted as a commonwealth...
. As of the 2010 Census, the population was 31,499. The county is named for Peter Muhlenberg
Peter Muhlenberg
John Peter Gabriel Muhlenberg was an American clergyman, Continental Army soldier during the American Revolutionary War, and political figure in the newly-independent United States...
. Its county seat is Greenville
Greenville, Kentucky
Greenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
.
The Central City
Central City, Kentucky
Central City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
Micropolitan Statistical Area includes all of Muhlenberg County. Central City
Central City, Kentucky
Central City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
is the largest city in the county with a 2010 Census of 5,978 residents.
Geography
Muhlenberg County is part of the Western Coal FieldsWestern Coal Fields
thumb|right|Regions of Kentucky, with the Western Coal Fields shown in brownThe Western Coal Fields of Kentucky compose an area in the west-central part of the state, bounded by the Dripping Springs Escarpment. This area is bordered on three sides by the Pennyroyal Plateau and to the north by the...
region of Kentucky
Kentucky
The Commonwealth of Kentucky is a state located in the East Central United States of America. As classified by the United States Census Bureau, Kentucky is a Southern state, more specifically in the East South Central region. Kentucky is one of four U.S. states constituted as a commonwealth...
. According to the 2010 census, the county has a total area of 479.43 square miles (1,241.7 km²), of which 474.72 square miles (1,229.5 km²) (or 99.02%) is land and 4.71 square miles (12.2 km²) (or 0.98%) is water.
Geographic features
The two primary aquatic features of Muhlenberg County are the Green RiverGreen River (Kentucky)
The Green River is a tributary of the Ohio River that rises in Lincoln County in south-central Kentucky. Tributaries of the Green River include the Barren River, the Nolin River, the Pond River and the Rough River...
and Lake Malone
Lake Malone
Lake Malone is a reservoir in Logan, Muhlenberg, and Todd counties in Kentucky. It was impounded from Rocky Creek in 1961 and named for Mr. and Mrs. Wallace C. Malone who donated a large tract of land for the lake.-External links:**...
. The northern portion of the county is typically gently rolling hills, river flatlands, and some sizeable bald cypress swamps along Cypress Creek and its tributaries. The southern portion consist of rolling hills with higher relief. Many of the valleys in the southern part of the county are rather deep and in places and somewhat rugged. This area is also known for many sandstone
Sandstone
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized minerals or rock grains.Most sandstone is composed of quartz and/or feldspar because these are the most common minerals in the Earth's crust. Like sand, sandstone may be any colour, but the most common colours are tan, brown, yellow,...
formations and some small limestone
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed largely of the minerals calcite and aragonite, which are different crystal forms of calcium carbonate . Many limestones are composed from skeletal fragments of marine organisms such as coral or foraminifera....
caves, of which only two known limestone
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed largely of the minerals calcite and aragonite, which are different crystal forms of calcium carbonate . Many limestones are composed from skeletal fragments of marine organisms such as coral or foraminifera....
caves are thought to be in the county, both in the far southern region. A number of faults cross the county at roughly the half-way point between neighboring counties to the north and south. Coal has been, and continues to be, a large natural resource found in the central portion of the county. Most deposits reside deep underground where in the past, the deposits were closer to the surface. In the recent past, it was common to see machines such as the "Big Brother" Power Shovel (pictured on the right) throughout the county. During the 1970s and early 1980s, Muhlenberg County was the state leader in Coal Production and in some cases, the top producer of coal in the United States.
Muhlenberg County's predominate rock type is sandstone
Sandstone
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized minerals or rock grains.Most sandstone is composed of quartz and/or feldspar because these are the most common minerals in the Earth's crust. Like sand, sandstone may be any colour, but the most common colours are tan, brown, yellow,...
. As one travels south and gets closer to the southern border, one begins to notice limestone
Limestone
Limestone is a sedimentary rock composed largely of the minerals calcite and aragonite, which are different crystal forms of calcium carbonate . Many limestones are composed from skeletal fragments of marine organisms such as coral or foraminifera....
outcroppings become more numerous and much closer to the surface. Early attempts at extracting iron ore were tried at Old Airdrie on the banks of the Green River
Green River (Kentucky)
The Green River is a tributary of the Ohio River that rises in Lincoln County in south-central Kentucky. Tributaries of the Green River include the Barren River, the Nolin River, the Pond River and the Rough River...
and at Buckner Furnace south of Greenville, Kentucky
Greenville, Kentucky
Greenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
. Both operations were in operation in the late 19th century and early 20th century. Neither of which were successful in the long run.
Green River
The 300 miles (483 km) long Green River is a tributary of the Ohio RiverOhio River
The Ohio River is the largest tributary, by volume, of the Mississippi River. At the confluence, the Ohio is even bigger than the Mississippi and, thus, is hydrologically the main stream of the whole river system, including the Allegheny River further upstream...
. It provides a commercial outlet for goods (primarily coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
) to be shipped from the county to the major trade centers along the Mississippi River
Mississippi River
The Mississippi River is the largest river system in North America. Flowing entirely in the United States, this river rises in western Minnesota and meanders slowly southwards for to the Mississippi River Delta at the Gulf of Mexico. With its many tributaries, the Mississippi's watershed drains...
. Muhlenberg County and the Green River first entered the popular conscience due to the John Prine
John Prine
John Prine is an American country/folk singer-songwriter. He has been active as a recording artist and live performer since the early 1970s.-Biography:...
song "Paradise
Paradise (John Prine song)
"Paradise" is a song written by John Prine for his father, and recorded for his 1971 debut album, John Prine. Prine also re-recorded the song for his 1986 album, German Afternoons. The song is about the impact of coal mining both while in activity and what happens to the area around the Green River...
", which was popularized by John Denver
John Denver
Henry John Deutschendorf, Jr. , known professionally as John Denver, was an American singer/songwriter, activist, and humanitarian. After growing up in numerous locations with his military family, Denver began his music career in folk music groups in the late 1960s. His greatest commercial success...
, about a now-defunct coal-mining town in Muhlenberg County.
While John Denver may have aided in the popularity, the song gained most of its popularity from loyal Prine fans in the midwest.
Lake Malone
Spanning 788 acres (3.2 km²) near the small town of Dunmor in southern Muhlenberg County, Lake Malone provides a locale for water recreation such as swimming, boating, and fishing. Lake Malone and the surrounding hardwood forest form Lake Malone State ParkLake Malone State Park
Lake Malone State Park is a park located near Dunmor, Kentucky, in Muhlenberg County and extending into parts of Logan County and Todd County. The park features campsites, picnic areas, a swimming area, a boat ramp, and a dock. The Laurel Trail leads through a hardwood forest filled with ...
. Lake Malone is maintained by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife. The lakes surface extends into two neighboring counties. The lake is known for its sandstone
Sandstone
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized minerals or rock grains.Most sandstone is composed of quartz and/or feldspar because these are the most common minerals in the Earth's crust. Like sand, sandstone may be any colour, but the most common colours are tan, brown, yellow,...
cliffs and natural sandstone
Sandstone
Sandstone is a sedimentary rock composed mainly of sand-sized minerals or rock grains.Most sandstone is composed of quartz and/or feldspar because these are the most common minerals in the Earth's crust. Like sand, sandstone may be any colour, but the most common colours are tan, brown, yellow,...
formations along the lake shore including a natural bridge
Natural arch
A natural arch or natural bridge is a natural geological formation where a rock arch forms, with an opening underneath. Most natural arches form as a narrow ridge, walled by cliffs, become narrower from erosion, with a softer rock stratum under the cliff-forming stratum gradually eroding out until...
. The bridge itself is not in the boundaries of the state park.
Adjacent counties
- McLean CountyMcLean County, KentuckyMcLean County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky; its population was 9,938 in the 2000 Census. McLean County's county seat is at Calhoun....
(north) - Ohio CountyOhio County, KentuckyOhio County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population was 22,916. Its county seat is Hartford. The county is named for the Ohio River, which originally formed its northern boundary. It is a dry county, which means that the sale of alcohol is restricted or...
(northeast) - Butler CountyButler County, KentuckyButler County is a county located in the US state of Kentucky. It was formed in 1810, becoming Kentucky's 53rd county. As of 2000, the population was 13,010. Its county seat is Morgantown, Kentucky. Butler is a prohibition or dry county.- History :...
(east) - Logan CountyLogan County, KentuckyLogan County is a county located in the southwest area of the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population was 26,573. Its county seat is Russellville...
(southeast) - Todd CountyTodd County, KentuckyTodd County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population is 11,971. Its county seat is Elkton. The county is named after Colonel John Todd, who was killed at the Battle of Blue Licks in 1782...
(south) - Christian CountyChristian County, KentuckyChristian County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It was formed in 1797. As of 2000, its population was 72,265. Its county seat is Hopkinsville, Kentucky...
(southwest) - Hopkins CountyHopkins County, KentuckyHopkins County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. It was formed in 1807. As of 2000, the population was 46,519. Its county seat is Madisonville. The county is named for General Samuel Hopkins, an officer in both the Revolutionary War and War of 1812, and later a Kentucky legislator...
(west)
Demographics
As of the censusCensus
A census is the procedure of systematically acquiring and recording information about the members of a given population. It is a regularly occurring and official count of a particular population. The term is used mostly in connection with national population and housing censuses; other common...
of 2010, there were 31,499 people, 12,979 households, and 9,057 families residing in the county. The population density
Population density
Population density is a measurement of population per unit area or unit volume. It is frequently applied to living organisms, and particularly to humans...
was 67 /sqmi. There were 13,675 housing units at an average density of 29 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the county was 94.19% White
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 4.65% Black
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
or African American
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.13% Native American
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.13% Asian
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, 0.19% from other races
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
, and 0.72% from two or more races. 0.73% of the population were Hispanic
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
or Latino
Race (United States Census)
Race and ethnicity in the United States Census, as defined by the Federal Office of Management and Budget and the United States Census Bureau, are self-identification data items in which residents choose the race or races with which they most closely identify, and indicate whether or not they are...
of any race.
There were 12,979 households out of which 30.70% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.70% were married couples
Marriage
Marriage is a social union or legal contract between people that creates kinship. It is an institution in which interpersonal relationships, usually intimate and sexual, are acknowledged in a variety of ways, depending on the culture or subculture in which it is found...
living together, 10.40% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.70% were non-families. 24.30% of all households were made up of individuals and 12.60% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.45 and the average family size was 2.90.
In the county the population was spread out with 22.60% under the age of 18, 9.20% from 18 to 24, 28.00% from 25 to 44, 24.80% from 45 to 64, and 15.50% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females there were 98.00 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 96.20 males.
The median income for a household in the county was $28,566, and the median income for a family was $33,513. Males had a median income of $29,952 versus $18,485 for females. The per capita income
Per capita income
Per capita income or income per person is a measure of mean income within an economic aggregate, such as a country or city. It is calculated by taking a measure of all sources of income in the aggregate and dividing it by the total population...
for the county was $14,798. About 15.50% of families and 19.70% of the population were below the poverty line, including 26.00% of those under age 18 and 17.00% of those age 65 or over.
Cities and towns
- BremenBremen, KentuckyBremen is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 365 at the 2000 census. The city was settled by German immigrants who named it after Bremen, Germany.-Geography:Bremen is located at ....
- Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
- DrakesboroDrakesboro, KentuckyDrakesboro is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 627 at the 2000 census. Incorporated in 1888, the city was named for early pioneer William Drake.-Geography:Drakesboro is located at ....
- GreenvilleGreenville, KentuckyGreenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
- PowderlyPowderly, KentuckyPowderly is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 846 at the 2000 census. The city is named for Terence Powderly, who opened a coal mine there in 1887.-Geography:Powderly is located at ....
- South CarrolltonSouth Carrollton, KentuckySouth Carrollton is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 184 at the 2000 census. Founded as Randolph Old Farm in 1838, an early pioneer changed the name of the city to honor his son, Carroll.-Geography:...
- Graham
Economy
Muhlenberg County has been a major coalCoal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
-producing region for the United States for many years. In fact, during most of the 1970s Muhlenberg County annually produced more coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
than anywhere else in the world. It led the state of Kentucky in coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
production throughout the 1970s and even into the early 1980s before falling off. Although the use of coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
waned in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as the 21st Century rolled around, the coal-mining industry in Muhlenberg and surrounding counties began to expand again and has once again provided a significant number of jobs in the region. One reason for this is the willingness of utility operators to install flue gas cleaning systems so that Bituminous Coal
Bituminous coal
Bituminous coal or black coal is a relatively soft coal containing a tarlike substance called bitumen. It is of higher quality than lignite coal but of poorer quality than Anthracite...
can be burned much cleaner than in decades past. Another reason is that coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
from "out west" tends to burn cooler, thus causing a utility to have to buy larger quantities of western coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
and mix (or "Blend") it with other compounds or other types of coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
. This has proven to be an issue with many East Coast Utility Operators. Muhlenberg County is the home of Kentucky's first commercial coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
mine. That mine, while not what one would think of today, opened in 1820 as the "McLean Drift Bank". It was located along the Green River
Green River (Kentucky)
The Green River is a tributary of the Ohio River that rises in Lincoln County in south-central Kentucky. Tributaries of the Green River include the Barren River, the Nolin River, the Pond River and the Rough River...
in the former village of Paradise
Paradise, Kentucky
Paradise was a small town in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The town was located 10.5 miles east-north-east of Greenville and was formerly called Stom's Landing . It was once a trading post along the Green River, but it no longer exists...
. The mine and its impact on the community are referenced in the John Prine song Paradise
Paradise (John Prine song)
"Paradise" is a song written by John Prine for his father, and recorded for his 1971 debut album, John Prine. Prine also re-recorded the song for his 1986 album, German Afternoons. The song is about the impact of coal mining both while in activity and what happens to the area around the Green River...
. Other major employers in Muhlenberg County have supplemented the coal
Coal
Coal is a combustible black or brownish-black sedimentary rock usually occurring in rock strata in layers or veins called coal beds or coal seams. The harder forms, such as anthracite coal, can be regarded as metamorphic rock because of later exposure to elevated temperature and pressure...
industry or expanded in other areas of expertise. Those industry's include:
- The Tennessee Valley AuthorityTennessee Valley AuthorityThe Tennessee Valley Authority is a federally owned corporation in the United States created by congressional charter in May 1933 to provide navigation, flood control, electricity generation, fertilizer manufacturing, and economic development in the Tennessee Valley, a region particularly affected...
Paradise Fossil Plant in DrakesboroDrakesboro, KentuckyDrakesboro is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 627 at the 2000 census. Incorporated in 1888, the city was named for early pioneer William Drake.-Geography:Drakesboro is located at .... - The Green River Correctional Complex in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
- Dyno NobelDyno NobelDyno Nobel is a major manufacturer of explosives. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Incitec Pivot Limited, and its customers include users in the mining, quarry, construction, pipeline and geophysical exploration industries...
in Graham - EBA&DEnsign-Bickford CompanyThe Ensign-Bickford Aerospace & Defense Company was started in 1836 in Simsbury, Connecticut as a manufacturer of William Bickford's safety fuse for use in mining. Safety fuse was a great advance in mining technology over the practice of filling holes with black powder. The next step in mining...
in Graham - Muhlenberg Community Hospital in GreenvilleGreenville, KentuckyGreenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
- Muhlenberg County Board of Education in PowderlyPowderly, KentuckyPowderly is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 846 at the 2000 census. The city is named for Terence Powderly, who opened a coal mine there in 1887.-Geography:Powderly is located at ....
- The Department of the Army, Kentucky National GuardKentucky National GuardThe Kentucky National Guard consists of the:*Kentucky Army National Guard*Kentucky Air National Guard-External links:** compiled by the United States Army Center of Military History...
Wendell H. FordWendell H. FordWendell Hampton Ford is a retired politician from the U.S. state of Kentucky. He served for twenty-four years in the U.S. Senate and was the 53rd Governor of Kentucky. He was the first person to be successively elected lieutenant governor, governor, and U.S. senator in Kentucky history...
Regional Training Center & Kentucky UTES - Armstrong Coal Company in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
- Ken-American Resources: Paradise Underground Mine in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
- Kentucky UtilitiesKentucky UtilitiesKentucky Utilities is based in Lexington, Kentucky and provides electricity to 77 counties in Kentucky. KU also serves five counties in Virginia under the name Old Dominion Power. It is owned by LG&E and KU Energy, LLC, which, in turn, is owned by PPL Corporation.-History:Kentucky Utilities was...
Customer Service Center in GreenvilleGreenville, KentuckyGreenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene... - Kentucky UtilitiesKentucky UtilitiesKentucky Utilities is based in Lexington, Kentucky and provides electricity to 77 counties in Kentucky. KU also serves five counties in Virginia under the name Old Dominion Power. It is owned by LG&E and KU Energy, LLC, which, in turn, is owned by PPL Corporation.-History:Kentucky Utilities was...
Green River Generating Station in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities... - Wal-MartWal-MartWal-Mart Stores, Inc. , branded as Walmart since 2008 and Wal-Mart before then, is an American public multinational corporation that runs chains of large discount department stores and warehouse stores. The company is the world's 18th largest public corporation, according to the Forbes Global 2000...
in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
. Wal-MartWal-MartWal-Mart Stores, Inc. , branded as Walmart since 2008 and Wal-Mart before then, is an American public multinational corporation that runs chains of large discount department stores and warehouse stores. The company is the world's 18th largest public corporation, according to the Forbes Global 2000...
operates a 136000 sq ft (12,634.8 m²). full service Supercenter along US 62. - Uncle Lee's / Wing Supply in Greenville, Kentucky
Chamber of commerce
In January 2006, the chambers of commerce from Central CityCentral City, Kentucky
Central City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
and Greenville
Greenville, Kentucky
Greenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
merged to form the Greater Muhlenberg Chamber of Commerce. The new, unified chamber consists of over 155 local businesses.
Incoming industries
Peabody EnergyPeabody Energy
Peabody Energy Corporation , previously Peabody Coal Company, is the largest private-sector coal company in the world. The company is headquartered in Downtown St. Louis, Missouri....
's new Thoroughbred Energy Plant, a coal-burning power generation facility expected to bring 450 permanent jobs to the area, is to be located in Central City
Central City, Kentucky
Central City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
. The plant was projected to begin electricity generation sometime in 2007, but a dispute over Peabody's air quality permit has halted construction plans. The power plant plans have now been scrapped and instead, a new partnership between Peabody Energy
Peabody Energy
Peabody Energy Corporation , previously Peabody Coal Company, is the largest private-sector coal company in the world. The company is headquartered in Downtown St. Louis, Missouri....
and ConocoPhillips
ConocoPhillips
ConocoPhillips Company is an American multinational energy corporation with its headquarters located in the Energy Corridor district of Houston, Texas in the United States...
Oil Company called, "Kentucky NewGas" has been formed. Kentucky NewGas is a state-of-the-art energy center that will transform Kentucky coal into clean natural gas, while creating 500 long-term jobs and $100 million in annual economic benefits. The location of this new, large state-of-the-art facility is on the outskirts of Central City
Central City, Kentucky
Central City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
close to the Green River
Green River (Kentucky)
The Green River is a tributary of the Ohio River that rises in Lincoln County in south-central Kentucky. Tributaries of the Green River include the Barren River, the Nolin River, the Pond River and the Rough River...
. More information about the project can be found on their website: Kentucky NewGas
On April 25, 2006, frozen food company Gourmet Express announced plans to locate a facility in Greenville
Greenville, Kentucky
Greenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
. The company has renovated the facility vacated by food distribution company SuperValu
Supervalu (United States)
SuperValu Inc. is a United States grocery retailer and distributor. The corporation, headquartered in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, has been in business for over a century. It is the third-largest food retailing company in the United States , and ranks #51 on the Fortune 100 list.On June 2, 2006,...
in 2001, and is in the process of creating up to 200 permanent jobs.
Schools
Public schools in Muhlenberg County are under the purview of the Muhlenberg County Board of Education. They include:Elementary (K-5)
- Bremen Elementary School in Bremen
- Central City Elementary School in Central City
- Greenville Elementary School in Greenville
- Longest Elementary School in Powderly
- Muhlenberg South Elementary School in Belton
Middle (6-8)
- Muhlenberg North Middle School in Powderly
- Muhlenberg South Middle School in Greenville
High (9-12)
- Muhlenberg County High School East and Muhlenberg County High School West
Postsecondary
The Muhlenberg Campus of Madisonville Community CollegeMadisonville Community College
Madisonville Community College , located in Madisonville, KY, is one of 16 two-year, open-admissions colleges of the Kentucky Community and Technical College System . MCC was originally established as a member of the University of Kentucky's Community College System in 1968...
is located in Central City.
The Muhlenberg Career Development Center
Muhlenberg Career Development Center
The Muhlenberg Career Development Center is a Job Corps training center located in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. It serves around 415 students year-round. Offerings include vocational training at an entry level in the health and construction industries. Students are given breaks of ten training days...
is located between Central City & Greenville.
Libraries
There are two public libraries in Muhlenberg County: Harbin Memorial Library in Greenville and Central City Library in Central City. Both locations provide residents with free access to high speed InternetInternet
The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that use the standard Internet protocol suite to serve billions of users worldwide...
service.
These libraries have been joined together as Muhlenberg County Library, although both locations remain open.
History of Education in Muhlenberg County
There were once eight schools in Muhlenberg County, however in 1990, the school board consolidated the middle and high school students into two middle and two high schools. Bremen High School, Central City High School, Graham High School, and half of Muhlenberg Central High School became Muhlenberg North Middle School and Muhlenberg North High School, while the other half of Muhlenberg Central High School, Drakesboro High School, Hughes-Kirkpatrick High School, Greenville High School, and Lake Malone School (which housed some middle school students) became Muhlenberg South Middle School and Muhlenberg South High School. The eight distinct schools continued to house elementary school students.In 2004, the school board began consolidating the badly deteriorating elementary schools, closing Graham Elementary School and transferring students to Longest Elementary School and the expanded Greenville Elementary School, and closing Lake Malone School
Lake Malone School
Lake Malone School was a school in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. Open for 26 years, it was located between Dunmor and Rosewood. Its only principal was Joseph Wells, who was the principal of Dunmor School before it closed. Lake Malone School was closed for the opening of a bigger school in the county...
transferring those students to Hughes-Kirkpatrick Elementary School. Consolidation continued in 2005 with the closure of Drakesboro Elementary School. Students from Drakesboro spent a year at Hughes-Kirkpatrick Elementary School until the opening of the newly constructed Muhlenberg South Elementary School in 2006 (and subsequent closing of Hughes-Kirkpatrick.)
On February 5, 2008, three communities in Muhlenberg County received major damage during the 2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak
2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak
The 2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak was a deadly tornado outbreak which affected the Southern United States and the lower Ohio Valley on February 5 and 6, 2008. The event began on Super Tuesday, while 24 U.S. states were holding primary elections and caucuses to select the presidential...
. These communities were Greenville, Powderly, and Central City. Three residents were killed outside Greenville when the EF-3 tornado struck.
In November 2008 the Muhlenberg County school board announced that both Muhlenberg South High School and Muhlenberg North High School will combine and no longer be the Suns and Stars but will be Muhlenberg County High School home of the Mustangs. The change took effect in June 2009.
Media
- WMTA AM 1380 Radio established in 1955, Central City
- WNES AM 1050 RadioWNESWNES is a radio station broadcasting a sports radio format. Licensed to Central City, Kentucky, USA. The station is currently owned by Starlight Broadcasting Co., Inc. and features programing from ESPN Radio....
established in 1955, Central City - Times Argus established in 1909, Central City
- Leader-News established in Greenville now located in Central City
- WKYA FM 105.5 radio station in Greenville
- WQXQ FM 101.9WQXQWQXQ is a radio station broadcasting a Hot Adult Contemporary format. Licensed to Central City, Kentucky, USA, the station serves the Central City-Owensboro area. The station is currently owned by Starlight Broadcasting Co., Inc...
100,000 watts studios in Central City with tower and transmitter at Pleasant Ridge, Kentucky in Ohio CountyOhio County, KentuckyOhio County is a county located in the U.S. state of Kentucky. As of 2000, the population was 22,916. Its county seat is Hartford. The county is named for the Ohio River, which originally formed its northern boundary. It is a dry county, which means that the sale of alcohol is restricted or...
Sites and events of interest
- Lake Malone State ParkLake Malone State ParkLake Malone State Park is a park located near Dunmor, Kentucky, in Muhlenberg County and extending into parts of Logan County and Todd County. The park features campsites, picnic areas, a swimming area, a boat ramp, and a dock. The Laurel Trail leads through a hardwood forest filled with ...
in Dunmor - Muhlenberg County Rail to Trails, 6 miles (9.7 km) converted railroad track running between Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
and GreenvilleGreenville, KentuckyGreenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene... - Brewco MotorsportsBrewco MotorsportsBaker Curb Racing, formerly known as Brewco Motorsports, is a racing team that competes in the NASCAR Nationwide Series. Based in Nashville, Tennessee, it is owned by Gary Baker, former owner of Bristol Motor Speedway and Nashville Superspeedway, and record executive Mike Curb...
shop in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities... - Duncan Center Museum & Art Gallery in GreenvilleGreenville, KentuckyGreenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene...
- Four Legends Fountain in DrakesboroDrakesboro, KentuckyDrakesboro is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 627 at the 2000 census. Incorporated in 1888, the city was named for early pioneer William Drake.-Geography:Drakesboro is located at ....
- Labor DayLabor DayLabor Day is a United States federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers.-History:...
Cruise-In in Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities... - Muhlenberg County Agriculture and Convention Center in PowderlyPowderly, KentuckyPowderly is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 846 at the 2000 census. The city is named for Terence Powderly, who opened a coal mine there in 1887.-Geography:Powderly is located at ....
- Paradise Park in PowderlyPowderly, KentuckyPowderly is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 846 at the 2000 census. The city is named for Terence Powderly, who opened a coal mine there in 1887.-Geography:Powderly is located at ....
, includes:- Coal Mines Shotgun House
- Merle TravisMerle TravisMerle Robert Travis was an American country and western singer, songwriter, and musician born in Rosewood, Kentucky. His lyrics often discussed the life and exploitation of coal miners. Among his many well-known songs are "Sixteen Tons", "Re-Enlistment Blues" and "Dark as a Dungeon"...
Birthplace - Paradise Park Museum
- Springridge School
- Tennessee Valley AuthorityTennessee Valley AuthorityThe Tennessee Valley Authority is a federally owned corporation in the United States created by congressional charter in May 1933 to provide navigation, flood control, electricity generation, fertilizer manufacturing, and economic development in the Tennessee Valley, a region particularly affected...
Paradise Fossil Plant in DrakesboroDrakesboro, KentuckyDrakesboro is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 627 at the 2000 census. Incorporated in 1888, the city was named for early pioneer William Drake.-Geography:Drakesboro is located at ....
, one of the largest Coal-Fired Power Plants in the United States. Site includes:- Public Boat Launch Ramp along the Green RiverGreen River (Kentucky)The Green River is a tributary of the Ohio River that rises in Lincoln County in south-central Kentucky. Tributaries of the Green River include the Barren River, the Nolin River, the Pond River and the Rough River...
- Public Fishing Lakes
- Historic Village of ParadiseParadise, KentuckyParadise was a small town in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The town was located 10.5 miles east-north-east of Greenville and was formerly called Stom's Landing . It was once a trading post along the Green River, but it no longer exists...
Cemetery, the only remnant of the village along the Green RiverGreen River (Kentucky)The Green River is a tributary of the Ohio River that rises in Lincoln County in south-central Kentucky. Tributaries of the Green River include the Barren River, the Nolin River, the Pond River and the Rough River...
.
- Public Boat Launch Ramp along the Green River
Some Notable natives
- James BestJames BestJames Best is an American actor best known for his role as bumbling Sheriff Rosco P. Coltrane in the CBS television series The Dukes of Hazzard. He has also worked as an acting coach, artist, and musician.-Early years:...
(Sheriff Rosco P. ColtraneSheriff Rosco P. ColtraneOn the American TV series The Dukes of Hazzard, Rosco Purvis Coltrane is the bumbling sheriff of Hazzard County and right-hand man of its corrupt county commissioner, Jefferson Davis "J.D." Hogg ....
of the Dukes of HazzardDukes of HazzardThe Dukes of Hazzard is an American television series that aired on the CBS television network from 1979 to 1985.The series was inspired by the 1975 film Moonrunners, which was also created by Gy Waldron and had many identical or similar character names and concepts.- Overview :The Dukes of Hazzard...
) was born in PowderlyPowderly, KentuckyPowderly is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 846 at the 2000 census. The city is named for Terence Powderly, who opened a coal mine there in 1887.-Geography:Powderly is located at ....
. - Don Everly of the The Everly BrothersThe Everly BrothersThe Everly Brothers are country-influenced rock and roll performers, known for steel-string guitar playing and close harmony singing...
was born in the now-defunct community of Brownie, near Central CityCentral City, KentuckyCentral City is a city in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. The population was 5,893 at the 2000 census. It is also the largest city in the county and the principal community in the Central City Micropolitan Statistical Area which includes all of Muhlenberg County and the communities...
. - Kennedy Jones, guitarist
- Warren OatesWarren OatesWarren Mercer Oates was an American actor best known for his performances in several films directed by Sam Peckinpah including The Wild Bunch and Bring Me the Head of Alfredo Garcia...
, actor, was born in Depoy near GreenvilleGreenville, KentuckyGreenville is a city in and the county seat of Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States. It is named for Revolutionary War General Nathan Greene... - Merle TravisMerle TravisMerle Robert Travis was an American country and western singer, songwriter, and musician born in Rosewood, Kentucky. His lyrics often discussed the life and exploitation of coal miners. Among his many well-known songs are "Sixteen Tons", "Re-Enlistment Blues" and "Dark as a Dungeon"...
, legendary country and western musician was born in Rosewood, Kentucky
See also
- National Register of Historic Places listings in Muhlenberg County, KentuckyNational Register of Historic Places listings in Muhlenberg County, KentuckyThis is a list of the National Register of Historic Places listings in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. It is intended to be a complete list of the properties and districts on the National Register of Historic Places in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky, United States...
External links
- Muhlenberg County Schools
- Greater Muhlenberg Chamber of Commerce
- http://www.flickr.com/photos/perspectivephotography/sets/72157603878143830/Photos of the damage path caused by the 2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreakThe 2008 Super Tuesday tornado outbreak was a deadly tornado outbreak which affected the Southern United States and the lower Ohio Valley on February 5 and 6, 2008. The event began on Super Tuesday, while 24 U.S. states were holding primary elections and caucuses to select the presidential...
]