2019 Map of Handshoe

About this map

Yellow Mountain and Chestnut Mountain dominate the central topography of this section of the Kentucky coalfields, where the headwaters of numerous forks and branches carve a dense network of hollows. Small communities like Soft Shell, Handshoe, and Bolyn are situated along these narrow valleys, often connected by roads that trace the creek beds. The drainage of Middle Fork Quicksand Creek and its many tributaries, such as Plum Branch and Lower Twin Branch, illustrates the complex hydrology of the region. Family names are preserved through landmarks like Estill Smith Cemetery and Bolen Cemetery, while industrial activity is noted via the Pembroke Coal Company Road. The convergence of Magoffin, Floyd, and Knott county lines along the ridges highlighting the political boundaries defined by this high terrain.