Leslie County

Leslie County is an administrative division in eastern Kentucky with scattered communities nestled in forested, rolling terrain. The landscape consists of steep ridges and valley bottoms that define the geography of the region.

The county was established in 1878 from portions of surrounding counties and named after Governor Preston Leslie. Its creation was part of larger administrative reorganization efforts in the Appalachian region.

The Frontier Nursing Service, based in Wendover near Hyden, has shaped healthcare delivery for scattered rural communities since its founding. The organization remains central to how residents access medical care across remote areas.

The area is predominantly rural with services spread across scattered settlements and requires advance planning when visiting. Travelers should research the location of amenities beforehand, as businesses and facilities are far apart.

The area has an uncommon voting pattern that sets it apart from most regions in the United States. This distinctive aspect reflects deeply rooted local traditions that have shaped political choices over generations.

Location: Kentucky

Inception: March 29, 1878

Capital city: Hyden

Shares border with: Perry County, Bell County, Harlan County, Clay County

Website: http://lesliecounty.ky.gov

GPS coordinates: 37.09000,-83.38000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:24