2016 Map of Paintsville

About this map

Paintsville serves as the focal point of this Johnson County region, situated at the confluence of Paint Creek and the Louisa Fork of the Big Sandy River. The landscape is defined by the narrow valleys of Mudlick Cr and Toms Cr, where long-established coal and rail heritage is visible in the transition of old industrial infrastructure. A notable modern conversion is the Dawkins Line Rail Trail, which follows the historic path of the Dawkins Line through Hagerhill and Dawkins. Family history is deeply rooted across these hills, evidenced by numerous small burial grounds such as the Vanhoose Cem, Whippoorwill Cem, and Ratliff Cem. Larger community landmarks include Highland Memorial Park and the Johnson County Memorial Cem. Surrounding settlements like Staffordsville, Thelma, and Wittensville illustrate the dispersed yet interconnected nature of Appalachian valley life during this era.