Memorial Day Weekend, Pike County & Surrounding Areas
Each spring, the storied legacy of the Hatfields and McCoys comes alive—not in conflict, but in community dedication. Over Memorial Day weekend 2025, local volunteers, Hatfield and McCoy descendants, and tourism leaders joined forces to restore and honor several key sites connected to our region’s most famous family feud. Spearheaded by Tony Tackett, Executive Director of the Pike County Tourism CVB, and board member (and McCoy Well owner) Bob Scott, this year’s cleanup brought a renewed sense of pride and remembrance to Pike County and beyond.
McCoy Graves at Dils Cemetery, Pikeville
At the heart of Pikeville’s historic Dils Cemetery, volunteers gathered to clear brush, remove fallen branches, and freshen headstone engravings for the McCoy family plot. McCoy descendants on hand shared stories passed down through generations, helping younger volunteers understand the human side of this legendary feud. Wreaths were placed at each marker, a touching tribute to ancestors who shaped our region’s narrative.
Hatfield McCoy Historic Sites Cleanup 2025 Media
Perry Cline Gravesite, Pikeville
Just a stone’s throw away, the final resting place of Perry Cline—an influential character in feud lore—received similar care. Fresh mulch was laid and volunteers painstakingly cleaned the area that surrounds it. Bob Scott noted, “It’s about preserving more than stones; it’s preserving stories.”
“Hog Trial” Cabin of Preacher Anse Hatfield, Blackberry
In Blackberry, the small log cabin where it is said that Preacher Anse Hatfield once presided over a trial between Floyd Hatfield and Randolph McCoy to determine the ownership of a hog, was adorned with new flowers as well. “This site is one of the most interesting sites of the Hatfields and McCoys Historic Feud Driving Tour,” said Jay Shepherd, Pikeville-Pike County Tourism Marketing Director. “I’m so proud of these folks for taking the time out of their weekend to make this site ready for visitors.”
McCoy Well, Hardy
At Hardy’s windswept McCoy Well, volunteers went to work revitalizing the area by removing leaves, dressing stonework, and applying the tender love and care this site deserves. Being one of the most popular sites along the Randolph McCoy Heritage Trail, The McCoy Well was made even more beautiful by the efforts of the crew, providing a perfect photo op for visitors and community members alike.
Devil Anse Hatfield Gravesite, Sarah Ann,
Crossing into West Virginia, teams paid their respects at Devil Anse Hatfield’s grave in Sarah Ann. Under the shade of towering trees, wreathes were laid at the grave of William Anderson “Devil Anse” Hatfield, patriarch of the Hatfield clan during the feud. Descendant Billy Hatfield, along with a host of other relatives from both sides were present, and enjoyed a special event honoring the heritage the Hatfield family. Tony Tackett reflected, “Bridging state lines for this cleanup reminds us that our shared history transcends any boundary.”
A Community United by History
This year’s Spring Cleanup was more than a landscaping project—it was a living classroom and a bridge between past and present. From the hands that pruned branches to the voices that recounted family lore, every participant played a part in honoring Appalachian heritage.
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Looking Ahead
If you would like to be a part of future cleanups, feel free to reach contact us and we will arrange for you to be a part of this amazing work. Donations are also accepted, and there are many ways to give back to the community that houses some of America’s most legendary history.
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