Whitley Branch (Kentucky)
| Whitley Branch | |
|---|---|
Location of the stream in Kentucky | |
| Etymology | William Whitley |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Source | Daniel Boone National Forest |
| • location | London, Kentucky |
| • coordinates | 37°07′06″N 84°04′54″W / 37.118338°N 84.081731°W |
| Mouth | Little Laurel River |
• location | Corbin, Kentucky |
• coordinates | 37°06′06″N 84°03′19″W / 37.10173875145791°N 84.05536790665744°W |
| Basin size | 2.6 sq mi (6.7 km2) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Cumberland River |
Whitley Branch is a perennial headwater stream, part of the Cumberland River system, located in London, Kentucky, that drains an urban area of approximately 2.6 square miles (6.7 km2).[1] It begins south of London, in the Daniel Boone National Forest area, passes through Laurel County, and joins Little Laurel River just north of Corbin, Kentucky.[2]
Overview
Whitley Branch likely got its name from Colonel William Whitley, a prominent historical figure in Kentucky's early history. The creek was likely named after him in honor of famously protecting the settlers along Wilderness Road.[3]
Whitley Branch serves as London's water drainage and is a feature of the Whitley Branch Veterans Park, running alongside the walkways, under bridges, and shaping the landscape. Because of runoff, the steam is a major source of pollutants and sediment. Restoration efforts have included planting native trees to restore the habitat and raise awareness. The City of London has also undergone a project to restore the Whitley Branch Wetlands to its original condition.[4] The goal is to preserve the natural environment while allowing locals to enjoy recreational activities.
References
- ^ "Final Project Report: Watershed Planning, Implementation, and Education for the Little Laurel River Watershed" (PDF). Third Rock Consultants, LLC. July 29, 2016. Retrieved February 14, 2026 – via eec.ky.gov.
- ^ "Geographic Names Information System: Whitley Branch". edits.nationalmap.gov. U.S. Geological Survey. Retrieved February 11, 2026.
- ^ JimC (October 9, 2020). "Guardian Of The Wilderness Road". Frontier Partisans. Retrieved January 11, 2026.
- ^ "Whitley Branch Wetlands - Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet". eec.ky.gov. Retrieved January 11, 2026.