Interview with Leanne Coleman, November 7, 2015

Interview Summary

Leanne Coleman lived in Elkhorn City from 1994-2001, moved to Virginia, and then returned to Elkhorn City in 2004 to raise her family. She talks about the activities her family is involved in around the river. Coleman talks about her role in the community, and describes the community as welcoming. She talks about how Elkhorn City changed from her early days living there to the present. She talks about businesses closing and opening, and talks about the types of businesses the community needs. Coleman talks about her childhood memories of the Russell Fork River, and talks about taking her own children to the river. She talks about activities surrounding the river, including baptisms and festivals. She tells some folktales about the river. Coleman talks about how industries like coal mining affect the Russell Fork River. She talks about other reasons the water may be polluted. She talks about locals' attitudes about cleaning up the area.

Interview Keyword

Water quality. Environmental protection--Kentucky Communities.

Interview LC Subject

Rivers--Kentucky Outdoor recreation. Appalachian Region--Social conditions Economic development. River tourism. Appalachian Region--Economic conditions Big Sandy River (Ky. and W. Va.) Elkhorn City (Ky.)

Interview Rights

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Interview Usage

Interviews may be reproduced with permission from Louie B. Nunn Center for Oral History, Special Collections, University of Kentucky Libraries.