The current master plan for development of the Potter Flats endorses the development of a mining town. Mthough this is a very positive step in the right direction, it is the position of the Elkhorn City Area Heritage Council, Inc., that this would not be a true-to-life portrayal of the history of the Potter Flats and would compete economically with other local projects that are in later stages of development.

For instance, a mining town is currently being developed for the Stone area of Pike County. This idea is well suited for the history of that area and would conflict with the current Breaks Interstate Park Master Plan.

It would be in the best interests of the Park to develop the Potter Flats in a different manner. A pioneer village would be the proper theme for development. This would compliment other area attractions. For instance, The Mountain Homeplace in Paintsville is a 1850 - 1875 working farm. The development of a pre 1850 pioneer village in the Potter Flats would give tourist coming to Eastern Kentucky a variety of different historical options. They could see each attraction: The Mountain Homeplace, Stone Mining Community, and the Potter Flats Pioneer Village, within a weekend.

The fact that a wave pool is planned in the Potter Flats is also a concern for the Elkhorn City Area Heritage Council, Inc. Mthough the Wave Pool is an excellent idea we think it should be placed in another area of the park or separate land acquire for it.

The Elkhorn City Area Heritage Council, Inc., proposes to preserve this unique history with the development of a Pioneer or Heritage Village set in the pre 1850 time period.

Pioneer Section Pre 1850--

The village should have some or all of the following:

Residential period Cabins,

Ground Cellar, Spring House

Gunsmith Shop

Woodwright's Shop -- Wood Work -- Wagon Wheels

Tin Shop

Blacksmith Shop

Livery Staple

Grist Mill, Cane Mill

Tannery - Leather Works

Quilt, Candle & Broom Shop

Cobblers Shop, Loom & Spjnning Wheel

Moonshine Still

Cider Shop

Attached to this plan are photos and brochures regarding similar concepts that could be integrated into the overall plan. The following photographs show the type of structures that should be integrated in the plan.

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