If you’ve ever been curious about the rich history of Appalachia, you’ve likely heard of Harlan, Kentucky—arguably one of the most famous towns in the region. In this video, they take you on a guided tour of Harlan, showing off its landmarks, sharing its stories, and giving new subscribers a firsthand look at why this small town holds such a special place in Appalachian history.

A Journey Through Time

Harlan isn’t just any small town—its history is woven into the fabric of America’s coal mining legacy. From movies and TV shows to books and folklore, Harlan has captured the imagination of many, and our tour gives you a glimpse into why. As we drive through the town, you’ll see the Coal Monument, a tribute to the backbone of the region’s economy for decades. This monument is just the start of the historical treasures Harlan has to offer.

We pass through the old gateways of Harlan, where generations once entered this now-famous town before modern highways were built. You’ll also see Bascom Smith's garage, old motels, and flood tunnels—reminders of both Harlan’s industrial past and its struggle against the forces of nature.

The Flood of 1977

One of the most significant events in Harlan’s history is the devastating flood of 1977, which reshaped the town in many ways. In the video, we drive by the river diversion tunnels that were built to protect the town from future floods. You’ll hear the fascinating story of how engineers drilled through mountains to redirect the Clover Fork River. This piece of history adds yet another layer to Harlan’s resilient spirit.

Haunted Spots and TV Fame

Did you know that Harlan was featured in the hit TV series Justified? In our tour, we visit one of the iconic locations from the show: The Portal, a former bank turned pizza parlor, which is rumored to be haunted. Whether you're a fan of the supernatural or just love good pizza, The Portal is a must-see spot.

More Than Just Landmarks

While we visit many of the town’s historical landmarks, Harlan’s charm lies in its community. We give you a glimpse of local favorites like Big O's Commissary, Angela's Florist, and Harlan Beer Company—places where the locals gather to keep this small town lively and connected. Whether it's the Friday fish fry at BP Quick Mart or the pizza at the iconic Louellen Hotel, Harlan offers more than just history; it offers a vibrant small-town culture.

A Love for Harlan and a Dream for the Future

As we drive through Harlan, we can’t help but reflect on our love for this small town. Though it’s small, Harlan holds a special place in our hearts. In the video, we even talk about our dream of traveling across the country in an RV, documenting more towns like Harlan. It’s a dream rooted in the love of exploring, much like our passion for sharing the stories of Harlan with all of you.

Watch the Full Tour!

We’re excited to share this tour of Harlan with our new subscribers and longtime followers alike. Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or are just learning about this Appalachian treasure, our video offers a unique look at the heart and soul of Harlan, KY.

Watch the video now to explore the famous small town of Harlan, its rich history, and its hidden gems. Don’t forget to leave a comment and share your thoughts on this unforgettable town!