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Big Laurel, Kentucky facts for kids

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Big Laurel, Kentucky
Big Laurel, Kentucky is located in Kentucky
Big Laurel, Kentucky
Big Laurel, Kentucky
Location in Kentucky
Big Laurel, Kentucky is located in the United States
Big Laurel, Kentucky
Big Laurel, Kentucky
Location in the United States
Country United States
State Kentucky
County Harlan
Elevation
1,335 ft (407 m)
Time zone UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
 • Summer (DST) UTC-4 (EST)
ZIP codes
40808
GNIS feature ID 510669

Big Laurel is a small, quiet place in Harlan County, Kentucky, United States. It is known as an unincorporated community. This means it's a group of homes and businesses that isn't officially part of a city or town. Instead, it's governed by the county.

What is an Unincorporated Community?

An unincorporated community like Big Laurel doesn't have its own local government. It doesn't have a mayor or a city council. Instead, the county government handles services for the area. This includes things like roads, police, and fire protection.

How Communities Are Formed

Communities can grow in different ways. Some start as small settlements and grow into big cities. Others remain smaller, like Big Laurel. They might be close-knit groups of people living near each other.

Living in an Unincorporated Area

Life in an unincorporated community can be different from city life. There might be more open spaces and natural areas. People often know their neighbors well. Services like schools or shops might be a short drive away in a nearby town.

Where is Big Laurel Located?

Big Laurel is found in Harlan County. This county is in the southeastern part of Kentucky. It's part of a larger region called the Appalachian Mountains. This area is famous for its beautiful hills and forests.

Harlan County's History

Harlan County has a rich history. It was once a major center for coal mining. Many people worked in the mines, which shaped the communities there. Today, the county is also known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Natural Beauty of the Region

The area around Big Laurel is full of nature. You can find rolling hills, thick forests, and clear streams. This makes it a great place for people who enjoy the outdoors. Activities like hiking, fishing, and exploring nature are popular.

Exploring Kentucky

Kentucky is a state with many interesting features. It's known for its horse racing, bourbon, and Mammoth Cave. The state also has a diverse landscape, from mountains to flatlands.

State Symbols

Every state has special symbols. Kentucky's state bird is the Northern cardinal. Its state flower is the Goldenrod. These symbols represent the unique nature and culture of Kentucky.

Famous Kentuckians

Many famous people have come from Kentucky. This includes historical figures and modern celebrities. Their stories add to the rich history of the state.

Quick Facts About Big Laurel

  • Big Laurel is located at an elevation of about 1,335 feet (407 meters) above sea level.
  • It uses the Eastern Time Zone.
  • The ZIP code for Big Laurel is 40808.
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