Conkling, Kentucky: Lincoln Carved by Mysterious Hobo

A chiseled rock carving of Abe Lincoln, set back in the woods, was a surprise gift from a peddler who wandered into town one summer, and then vanished.

The road to the sculpture is indeed overgrown, but the sculpture is worth the effort. Park to the left, away from the house, after crossing the bridge. Parking is at N 37 22.6303, W 083 41.9046. The residents of the house were friendly. Hike about 50 yards further in the cleared area, then head uphill. We found a metal culvert at N 37 22.5758, W 083 41.9619 that must have been part of the road. The sculpture is at N 37 22.5588, W 083 41.9639.

This was a rough hike. We were hesitant to leave our car in what appeared to be someone's driveway. It was very interesting though, and well worth it.

We made it back and still it was hard to find, but Lincoln was there. When you find the old road, walk until you come to a fence with a keep out sign. Just past that, the road is completely blocked -- you will have to climb the bank on right about 20 feet from the sign to get up to the road again, and from there you will find it. I think it would be impassable doing the summer months because of all the vines growing everywhere. You wouldn't be able to even see the road.

From Hwy 11 go past first road on left, then a white house, and just past it you'll see a street sign for Lincoln Rd, turn left there. It is steep and rocky and the concrete bridge was passable, looked fine to me.

Went to top of hill and parked by house (looked empty). I did find a small road that went up the hill, but it was full of weeds higher then me. I didn't want to try to wade through them. The road was to your left when you pull up to the house behind the shed, then walk up the large bank and you'll see the road.

Maybe be able to drive up there with a 4x4 if you could see past the weeds. I'm going back this winter when the weeds are gone and I'll report back.