Cole Raines is the Executive Director of One Harlan County. He’s a graduate of Harvard and has lived in Harlan for two years and worked here for three giving a very unique perspective as someone who has only recently experienced all that Harlan has to offer!
Tell us about your history and connection to Harlan County.
- “I moved to Harlan about two and a half years ago, and I have been working in Harlan for about three years now as Executive Director of One Harlan County. I am originally from Middlesboro, Kentucky and moved to Harlan once I started working with One Harlan.”
Why do you love Harlan?
- “I love the people here! Since I first moved to Harlan, everyone has been so friendly, helpful, and kind. I remember moving stuff into my house and the neighbor came out and introduced himself and asked if I needed any help moving my stuff in. The people here have been so kind and thoughtful over the last several years.”
Can you share a memorable experience you’ve had in Harlan County?
- “About a month or two ago, my partner and I were hiking to Knobby Rock when my mom texted and said there was a tornado warning for Middlesboro and it was headed directly for Harlan. We ran back down the mountain and could hear the tornado sirens in the City of Harlan. It ended up being an absolute downpour and we got drenched. There were tree limbs falling down and cracks of thunder. It was a terrifying, but a very memorable experience.”
What local businesses or restaurants would you recommend to visitors?
- “Well, I would probably have to say Moonbow. I am there a couple times a week because I am a big coffee drinker. I also always send out of town folks to Sassy Trash in downtown. They have such unique items and Paul and April are always so friendly.”
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots in Harlan County that you think visitors should know about?
- “I don’t think it is necessarily hidden because they bring in a lot of tourists, but Pine Mountain Settlement School is such a gem that a lot of folks not from Harlan still don’t know about. They have great hikes and amazing historic buildings. If you are visiting Harlan County, you definitely need to speed some time at Pine Mountain Settlement School.”
