2022 Map of Bledsoe

About this map

Pine Mountain dominates the central landscape of this Harlan County quadrangle, a ridge defining the transit and settlement patterns of the region. Along the northern slopes, the community of Napier sits near the headwaters of Greasy Creek, while the southern side features the settlements of Rosspoint, Gatun, and Bledsoe. This area serves as a significant genealogical record, preserving numerous family burial grounds including Huff Cem, Napier Cem, and Middleton Cem. The geography is characterized by deep hollows such as Opossum Hollow and Buckheart Hollow, with the Little Shepherd Trl winding along the high ridgeline. Critical mountain passes like Hazard Gap and Peters Gap provided historical transit through the steep terrain, connecting isolated valley communities. The map highlights the intersection of mountain life and natural barriers, where Straight Cr and the Middle Fork of the Kentucky River begin their winding paths through the Cumberland Plateau.