The Mountain HomePlace opened in July 1995, with five original 19th and early 20th century structures – all of which came from the surrounding area – making up the core of the farmstead. It is located on the land through an agreement with the Corps of Engineers on Paintsville Lake, just west of Paintsville.

While it is a tourist attraction, it is also here to educate the public and try to dispel the stereotypes placed on the people of Appalachians. The proud heritage of this area and these people go back many centuries and into many different countries.

The buildings consist of a family cabin called the McKenzie cabin which is a double pen cabin. A double crib barn, a one room school house, and the old Fish Trap United Baptist Church. The original Lemaster house is being used as a working blacksmith shop and along with the garden and fields is surrounded by spit-rail fencing.

Interpreters in authentic period costumes perform daily chores on the farm April through October. A variety of foods are grown on the farm including sorghum cane, vegetables and various herbs.

The Mountain HomePlace Farm offers families and groups unique experiences from touring the grounds, to having an old-fashioned wedding at the Fishtrap Church or attending a concert at the outdoor theater. There are always things to see and do at the HomePlace.

The administrative building at the Mountain HomePlace houses a museum of authentic tools, clothing and wares that were used during the 1850’s-1875. Also, located in the administration building is a gift shop that offers visitors Appalachian crafted items for gift giving or as a personal souvenir. A favorite of many are the handmade quilts that depict various styles of quilting. Other favored items are the iron works created by the farm’s blacksmith, hand painted gourds and the hand-sewn dolls and toys replicated from the 1850-1875 time period.

The administration building also has an auditorium that comfortably seats 150 guests. The room is used daily to show the award winning video narrated by Johnson County native Richard Thomas, detailing the life and history of early Appalachian Settlers. The auditorium is also available for rental for wedding receptions, reunions and other functions.

We look forward to your visit to the Mountain HomePlace and encourage you to take part in the authentic early history and development of Eastern Kentucky while listening and watching how our ancestors developed this beautiful area of Kentucky that we call Home. For hours of operation, call 606-297-1850.

For more information please call (606) 297-1850 or visit The Mountain
Homeplace here.