Pikeville

Pikeville
City
City of Pikeville
Downtown Pikeville Downtown Pikeville
Location within Pike County Location within Pike County
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	Kentucky
County	Template:Country data Pike County, Kentucky
Founded	1822
Incorporated	1848
Founded by	Zebulon Pike
Named for	Zebulon Pike
Government
• Type	Mayor-Council
• Body	Pikeville City Commission
• Mayor	James Carter
Area
• Total	40 km2 (15.6 sq mi)
• Land	40 km2 (15.6 sq mi)
• Water	0 km2 (0.0 sq mi)
Elevation	207 m (679 ft)
Population  (2020)
• Total	7,136
• Density	176.6/km2 (457.4/sq mi)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes	41501-41502
Area code(s)	606
FIPS code	21-60860
GNIS feature ID	0500702
Website	www.pikevilleky.gov

Pikeville is a city located in Pike County, Kentucky, United States. It is the county seat of Pike County and is known for its scenic beauty and rich history. Pikeville was founded in 1822 and incorporated in 1848. The city covers a total area of 15.6 square miles and has a population of 7,136 as of 2020.

History

Pikeville was named after Zebulon Pike, an American explorer who led expeditions in the early 19th century. The city was founded in 1822 and quickly became an important center for trade and commerce in the region. It played a significant role in the development of the coal industry in Eastern Kentucky.

During the Civil War, Pikeville was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces at different times. The city was the site of several skirmishes and battles, including the Battle of Pikeville in 1862. After the war, Pikeville experienced a period of growth and prosperity as the coal industry boomed.

Geography

Pikeville is located in the eastern part of Kentucky, in the Appalachian Mountains. The city is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, providing stunning views and natural beauty. The elevation of Pikeville is 679 feet above sea level.

The city is bordered by the Levisa Fork River to the east and the Russell Fork River to the west. These rivers, along with several smaller creeks, provide recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking.

Economy

Pikeville's economy is primarily based on the coal industry, which has been a major source of employment and economic growth in the region. The city is home to several coal mines and related industries. In recent years, Pikeville has also seen growth in other sectors such as healthcare, education, and tourism.

The Pikeville Medical Center, a regional healthcare facility, is one of the largest employers in the area. The city is also home to the University of Pikeville, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Attractions

Pikeville offers a range of attractions and activities for visitors. The city's downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historical sites. The Pikeville City Park is a popular destination for outdoor recreation, with walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground.

The East Kentucky Expo Center is a multi-purpose venue that hosts concerts, sporting events, and trade shows. The Appalachian Center for the Arts showcases local talent and offers a variety of performances throughout the year.

Education

Pikeville is served by the Pikeville Independent School District, which operates several schools in the city. The district is known for its high academic standards and innovative programs. The University of Pikeville, a private university, offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields of study.

Notable People

Pikeville has been home to several notable individuals, including:

• Dwight Yoakam, Grammy-winning country music singer and actor
• Chris Stapleton, Grammy-winning country music singer-songwriter
• Jim McDaniels, former professional basketball player
• Kim Davis (county clerk), former county clerk known for her opposition to same-sex marriage

External links

• Official website
• Pike County Tourism
• University of Pikeville