Ruth, Caldwell County, Kentucky facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ruth
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Ruth, Kentucky
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 Ruth
Location in Kentucky
Ruth
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Kentucky |
| County | Caldwell |
| Elevation | 469 ft (143 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CST) |
| ZIP codes |
42501
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| GNIS feature ID | 508990 |
Ruth is a small place in Caldwell County, Kentucky, United States. It is known as an "unincorporated community." This means it's not officially a city or town with its own local government. However, it is a recognized area where people live. Ruth was also once a "coal town," meaning its history is tied to the coal mining industry. It is located about 5 miles east of Somerset, Kentucky, and is quite close to the beautiful Daniel Boone National Forest.
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What is Ruth, Kentucky?
Ruth is an example of an unincorporated community. This type of community does not have its own separate local government, like a mayor or city council. Instead, it is usually governed by the larger county it is part of, which in this case is Caldwell County. People still live, work, and go to school in unincorporated communities. They just don't have their own city-specific laws or services.
A Look at Coal Towns
Ruth was also a "coal town." Coal towns were communities that grew up around coal mines. Many people who lived there worked in the mines or in businesses that supported the mining industry. These towns were very important for a long time. They provided homes and services for miners and their families. As coal mining changed, some of these towns, like Ruth, also changed.
Where is Ruth Located?
Ruth is found in the state of Kentucky, which is in the southeastern part of the United States. It is specifically located in Caldwell County. The community is about 5 miles east of a larger city called Somerset, Kentucky. Ruth's location is also notable because it is near the Daniel Boone National Forest. This large forest offers many outdoor activities and is a significant natural area in Kentucky.
Geography and Surroundings
The area around Ruth, like much of Kentucky, has a varied landscape. It includes hills, forests, and rivers. The elevation of Ruth is about 469 feet above sea level. Being close to the Daniel Boone National Forest means the community is surrounded by natural beauty. This forest is a popular spot for hiking, camping, and exploring nature.
Life in an Unincorporated Community
Living in an unincorporated community like Ruth can be different from living in a big city. Services like police, fire, and roads are usually managed by the county government. Residents might rely on nearby towns or cities for some services, like larger stores or hospitals. Despite not having a city government, these communities often have a strong sense of local identity and community spirit.
