Over the weekend of July 21-22, 2024, the dedicated team at the Pikeville-Pike County Tourism CVB, along with local community members, rolled up their sleeves and set to work on an important preservation project. The historic signage at the Dils Cemetery and Perry Cline gravesites, two prominent stops on the popular Hatfields & McCoys Historic Feud Driving Tour, received much-needed restoration, which includes site cleanup and brand new signage. This initiative underscores the CVB’s commitment to preserving its rich history and making it accessible to both locals and tourists.
The Dils Cemetery and the McCoy Legacy
Dils Cemetery is a significant historical site, serving as the final resting place for many members of the McCoy family. The McCoys, along with the Hatfields, are central figures in one of America’s most famous family feuds, the Hatfield-McCoy feud. This notorious conflict, which erupted in the late 19th century, involved a series of violent confrontations between the two families who lived along the Tug Fork of the Big Sandy River, which divides West Virginia and Kentucky.
Randolph “Randall” McCoy, the patriarch of the McCoy family, his wife Sally and their daughter Roseanna are buried in the Dils Cemetery. Other family members are buried there as well, including Sam McCoy among relatives. The feud, which was fueled by land disputes, romantic entanglements, and personal grudges, claimed the lives of over a dozen members of both families and left an indelible mark on American folklore. Today, the cemetery stands as a poignant reminder of the tragic consequences of this storied rivalry.
Perry Cline: A Man of Compassion, or Feud Flame Stoker?
Another significant, albeit controversial figure associated with the Hatfield-McCoy feud is Perry Cline. A lawyer and politician, Cline played a pivotal role in the feud, particularly in escalating the legal battles against the Hatfields. The Hatfields & McCoys History Channel miniseries portrays Cline as a creepy character who fiendishly stoked the flames of the feud. Historians and descendants are in sharp disagreement on the character of Perry Cline, as some believe he is the reason the feud occurred, while others paint a more noble picture of him. The truth most likely falls somewhere in between these two extremes, as with most human beings, there are virtues and vices associated with this prominent historical character.
Perry Cline
It should be noted that, in a progressive move for the time, Perry Cline established the first school for people of color in Pikeville, KY. This was a significant step towards education equality in the region and highlighted Cline’s commitment to justice and social progress. His gravesite, also part of the Hatfields & McCoys Historic Feud Driving Tour, is open to the public during daylight hours and is now fully restored with new signage.
A Weekend of Preservation
The restoration of the historic signage at these gravesites was undertaken with meticulous care. The Pikeville-Pike County Tourism CVB aimed to ensure that visitors could easily locate and learn about these important historical markers. The refurbished signs now provide clear, detailed information about the lives and legacies of those interred at these sites, enhancing the educational value of the driving tour.
The Hatfields & McCoys Historic Feud Driving Tour is a popular attraction, drawing history buffs and curious tourists from across the nation. The tour offers a deep dive into the infamous feud, exploring the historical, cultural, and social contexts that shaped this dramatic chapter in American history. With the restored signage, visitors can better appreciate the significance of the Dils Cemetery and Perry Cline gravesites.
Looking Ahead
The Pikeville-Pike County Tourism CVB’s efforts over the weekend are part of a broader initiative to preserve and promote the rich history of the region. By maintaining and enhancing these historical sites, the CVB ensures that the stories of the past remain vibrant and accessible to future generations.
As the tourism bureau continues its work, residents and visitors alike can look forward to more projects aimed at celebrating and preserving the unique heritage of Pikeville and Pike County. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of true crime stories, or simply someone interested in the cultural fabric of Appalachia, the Hatfields & McCoys Historic Feud Driving Tour offers a compelling journey through time.
Need a brochure? We can mail you one!
For more information on the driving tour and other historical attractions in the area, visit the Pikeville-Pike County Tourism CVB’s homepage. And next time you’re in Pikeville, be sure to take a moment to explore the restored signage and reflect on the remarkable history it represents.
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