Baxter, Kentucky facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Baxter, Kentucky
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 Baxter, Kentucky
Location in Kentucky
Baxter, Kentucky
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Kentucky |
| County | Harlan |
| Elevation | 1,211 ft (369 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP codes |
40806
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| GNIS feature ID | 486480 |
Welcome to Baxter, a small and interesting place in Harlan County, Kentucky, United States! It's not a city or a town with its own mayor. Instead, Baxter is known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that are part of a larger county, but they don't have their own separate local government.
Baxter is special because of where it's located. It sits right where two important streams, Martin's Fork and Clover Fork, meet. When these two streams join together, they form the beginning of the mighty Cumberland River.
Contents
What is an Unincorporated Community?
You might be wondering what an "unincorporated community" really is. It's a place where people live and work, but it's not officially set up as a city or town.
How Unincorporated Communities Work
- They don't have their own city council or mayor.
- Local services, like police and fire, are usually provided by the county government.
- Residents still pay taxes, but those taxes go to the county instead of a city.
- These communities often have their own unique names and a strong local feel.
Being unincorporated can mean fewer local rules. It also means that decisions for the area are made by the county.
Exploring Baxter's Location
Baxter is nestled in the beautiful landscape of eastern Kentucky. This area is known for its hills and natural beauty.
Where is Baxter on the Map?
Baxter is found within Harlan County. This county is in the southeastern part of Kentucky. It's a region famous for its rich history and natural resources.
Elevation of Baxter
The community of Baxter sits at an elevation of about 1,211 feet (369 meters) above sea level. This elevation gives it a unique position within the hilly terrain of Kentucky.
Rivers and Nature in Baxter
One of the most defining features of Baxter is its connection to water. The meeting of the two forks to form the Cumberland River is a key natural landmark.
The Forks of the Cumberland River
- Martin's Fork: This stream flows down from the surrounding hills.
- Clover Fork: This is the other stream that joins Martin's Fork.
- Cumberland River: When these two forks meet, they create the start of this major river. The Cumberland River flows through Kentucky and Tennessee. It plays a big role in the region's history and environment.
The area around Baxter, with its rivers and natural setting, offers a glimpse into the beauty of rural Kentucky.
