Paradise
Mr. Peabody's Coal Train
State: Kentucky
County: Muhlenberg County
Founded: 1800s
Abandoned: 1967
Peak Population: 500
Paradise was a small coal mining community until Peabody Coal's strip mining operations destroyed it. Residents were forced out, and the town was demolished to access the coal beneath. John Prine immortalized it in his song 'Paradise.'
Coal Community
Paradise was a typical Appalachian coal community. Residents mined coal for generations.
Strip Mining
Peabody Coal's massive strip mines required the town's destruction. John Prine's family was among those displaced.
Timeline
- 1800s - Settled Community established
- 1967 - Demolished Strip mining destroyed town
Plan Your Visit
Best Time: Year-round
Difficulty: Easy
Time Needed: 30 minutes
Quick Facts
- Immortalized in John Prine's song
- 'Mr. Peabody's coal train hauled it away'
- Power plant now on site
Location
Address: Near Paradise, Kentucky (demolished)
Coordinates: 37.2619, -87.0247