Lawrence County, Kentucky

AT A GLANCE LAWRENCE COUNTY, KENTUCKY WHAT: Third largest county in the state; population approx. 15,600 WHERE: Eastern Coal Field region of Kentucky WEBSITE: www.lawrencecounty.ky.gov L awrence County was formed in 1822 and it is located in the Eastern Coal Field region of Kentucky. This up-and-coming area is currently poised for economic growth with the addition of several new industries and companies. In the midst of forward progress, however, Lawrence County maintains its small-town, Appalachian charm. It is a place of excitement and potential, as well as a haven of peace and tranquility. A popular destination for tourists and locals, Lawrence County is home to Yatesville Lake State Park, Eagle Ridge Golf Course, as well as a host of fine restaurants to satisfy the hunger for good down-home cuisine. In autumn, the hills come to life in a colorful panorama. And in all four seasons, the friendly people of Lawrence County extend an open invitation: “Bring your family here to visit or live. We promise it will be like coming home!” Created in December 14, 1821 out of Floyd and Greenup counties and named in honor of Captain James Lawrence, Commander of the USS Chesapeake during the War of 1812, today, Lawrence County is the third largest county in the state. It has 750 miles of road and the famous Louisa/Fort Gay Bridge, which crosses two rivers, connects two cities and two states, three bodies of land, and has a right turn in the middle of the bridge to SR 3. The County consists of Louisa, the County Seat and only major city (pop. 11,719), as well as a number of delightful smaller communities. Chris Jobe, Lawrence County Clerk reports, “One of the biggest attributes for us, now, is in the tourism sector. Yatesville Lake, just outside of Louisa, is quite large and offers a lot of opportunities, including Yatesville Lake State Park. It has a wonderful marina and attracts a lot of visitors for fishing and other outdoor recreation. Eagle Ridge Golf Course is located along the lake, in addition to trails for horseback riding and hiking. Being on the Big Sandy River is unique for us because the two forks meet in Louisa right behind the Courthouse. Many years ago it was a means LIKE COMING HOME