Situated along Blackberry Creek in Hardy, Kentucky, the McCoy Well is a profound symbol of American history—standing as one of the last original features of the homestead where the infamous Hatfield-McCoy feud reached its tragic peak. This humble well is more than just a source of water; it is a direct link to one of the bloodiest chapters in Appalachian lore.
On January 1, 1888, “Cap” Hatfield led a brutal raid against the McCoy family in the early morning hours. The Hatfields set the McCoy cabin ablaze, killing two of Randolph McCoy’s children, Alifair and Calvin, and severely injuring his wife, Sally. Randolph himself escaped by hiding in a pigpen. This violent attack marked the climax of the Hatfield-McCoy feud—a bitter conflict rooted in personal and legal disputes that spilled over into deadly violence.
The McCoy Well itself is a hand-dug, approximately 30-foot-deep well that once sustained the McCoy family through every hardship and season. Today, it is a silent witness to the events of 1888, offering visitors a chance to connect with the past in a way few other places can.
The property is currently owned by Bob Scott, a descendant of both the Hatfield and McCoy families, and his wife Rita. Bob and Rita have dedicated years to preserving the well and the surrounding grounds, ensuring that visitors can experience this historic site as a place of both remembrance and peace.
In 2018, a striking 8-foot statue of Randolph McCoy was unveiled beside the well. Carved by artist Travis Williams of Trav Carves, this wooden figure stands as a testament to the patriarch’s memory and a counterpart to Devil Anse Hatfield’s memorial in West Virginia.
Archaeologists have uncovered musket balls, bullets, nails, ceramic shards, and other domestic artifacts on the property—tangible proof of the violence and resilience of this place. Some of these items are showcased during annual events like the Hatfield McCoy Heritage Days, where descendants and visitors gather for memorial services and storytelling at the well itself.
Getting there: From Pikeville, head north on US 23, taking a right at the shopping area stop lights onto KY 119. After about 25 miles, you will see the first stop light that leads you right onto KY 319. The well is located a little way up 319 in Hardy, Kentucky. Parking is available on the left, you will park in a gravel parking lot, and cross the street over to the McCoy Well site. This site is a part of the larger, popular Hatfields and McCoys Historic Feud Driving Tour. It is suggested that you partake of the tour in its entirety, as there is much to see and enjoy in Hatfield and McCoy Feud Country.
Hours & access: The McCoy Well property is open from daylight till dark, seven days a week, all year-round.
For printed directions: Stop by the Pikeville-Pike County Welcome Center (685 Hambley Blvd., Pikeville, KY 41501) or download the free guide at tourpikecounty.com.
What was once the scene of violence is now a place of healing. The McCoy Well site today stands not only as an archaeological landmark but as a solemn memorial to the people whose lives were forever changed by the events of January 1, 1888.
Bullets fired in the New Year's Eve Massacre, as well as burnt pieces of wood and McCoy artifacts were discovered by National Geographic's Diggers at the McCoy Well Site.
Check out the many photos that our visitors have shared of their experiences at the legendary McCoy Well in Hardy, Kentucky. More photos will be added periodically, so stay tuned!
Explore how the McCoy Well has been featured in documentaries, news stories, tourism efforts, and podcasts. Discover the rich media coverage that continues to share this site's legacy with the world.
Start your adventure to The McCoy Well and beyond by getting in touch with the Pikeville-Pike County, KY Welcome Center. Our team is happy to provide helpful information, local insights, and details to make your trip unforgettable.
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