I went to the POOREST place in America (Owsley County, Kentucky - Booneville)

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  • čas přidán 9. 09. 2024
  • In light of JD Vance being chosen for Donald Trump's running mate in the 2024 election, I thought that this was the perfect time to release this video. Vance spent a lot of his childhood in the heart of Appalachia in southeastern Kentucky, in a little hollow called Jackson. While he mainly grew up in Middletown, Ohio, much of his family was still down in southeastern Kentucky and he often went there to visit. In this video I don't go to Jackson, but I do travel to Appalachia and in fact travel to what appears to be the poorest county in the United States - a place called Owsley County, Kentucky. Booneville (named after Daniel Boone) is the seat of Owsley County.
    JD Vance will soon be a household name and he may even end up being the Vice President of the United States. Vance started out with extremely humble and impoverished beginnings. In his book 'Hillbilly Elegy', he wrote about his upbringing and described in great detail life in a poor Appalachian 'holler' as well as the plight of many of the poor and forgotten people that live therewithin.
    Booneville isn't a hollow, but it is a poor little Appalachian town and will naturally share many of the characteristics that Vance wrote about in his book. I wanted to give you all an inside look into the region share my experience with you.
    Drugs, poverty, hardship exist in this region - in ever-increasing amounts, but so too do strong family values, love of country, natural beauty, a unique and fascinating culture, the roots of bluegrass music, etc. It's a place that very few ever get to, not for lack of opportunity, but it doesn't exactly rank very highly on most folks' travel bucket list. But I was extremely interested in the area so I took a road trip and went to see it for myself. I'm glad I did. I hope you all enjoy the video!
    #kentucky #jdvance #appalachia #poverty
    If you enjoyed this video please don't forget to LIKE, COMMENT and SUBSCRIBE!
    Also, if you'd like to go the extra mile in supporting me, you can do so by checking me out on Patreon or Buy Me A Coffee. Links below:
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Komentáře • 1,3K

  • @chopsticksandtrains
    @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +102

    NOTE FROM CREATOR: My closing monologue got cut out of this video due to a claim filed against the music I used (which was guaranteed copyright free) and that monologue was of major significance. So I'm going to paraphrase what I said starting at the 10:42 mark: "For being the poorest county in the nation, Booneville was a lot better than I thought it would be. Statistically, it might be located in the poorest county in the country, but one way in which it is not poor is in terms of its natural beauty. The hills, the rivers, the forests - it's all truly breathtaking. The US often gets a bad rap. It seems like all we hear about are the problems we face. Drugs, crime, homelessness, etc. Well, we certainly do have our fair share of problems, but as a world traveler that's been to many parts of the world, I've got a news flash for you all: so do other countries. In fact, if you went to the 'poorest county' in virtually any other country, it wouldn't be anywhere near as nice as Owsley County is. This isn't an insult to other countries, this is just a fact. It's also an important perspective that we don't often here. The people I met in Booneville were truly salt of the earth. They were the type of people that would give you the shirt right off their back if you needed it, even if it was their very last one. Booneville is a place where normalcy rules. People have traditional values. Men act like men and women act like women. All in all it was a very interesting trip. I'm glad I visited Booneville, and who knows... one of these days I might be back to visit again."
    Just after this closing monologue the US flag and eagle fade into the scene.

    • @arthurbrumagem3844
      @arthurbrumagem3844 Před měsícem +14

      @@chopsticksandtrains nice post, most don’t realize or accept that other places have the same issues, my wife’s family is from WV and were very poor. We go back there for reunions and love the area and the people . But for me I would still be lacking for things to do as I’m 75 and have different interests. Love the area though

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +9

      @@arthurbrumagem3844 Hi Arthur. Really appreciate you sharing your thoughts/experiences here. Stay blessed my friend.

    • @danlaflamme9372
      @danlaflamme9372 Před měsícem +18

      👍🇺🇸 iam positive u won't see the flag burned in that town!!!

    • @jackiewilson5276
      @jackiewilson5276 Před měsícem +8

      Very interesting tour of a nice little town. Thanks!

    • @jamie-gy6bd
      @jamie-gy6bd Před měsícem +14

      I have seen a lot worse in California

  • @bojiden5042
    @bojiden5042 Před měsícem +337

    In Kentucky we choose solitude and woods over wealth but we are free in our minds and wave at our neighbors

    • @barbara8802
      @barbara8802 Před měsícem +12

      Sounds devine!

    • @annjames1837
      @annjames1837 Před měsícem

      Once the secret is out, the Californians will in vade and ruin it

    • @jammergirl6897
      @jammergirl6897 Před měsícem +11

      Amen, I'm in Knox County Ky. And totally agree ❤❤

    • @sea2sea2seevanlife92
      @sea2sea2seevanlife92 Před měsícem +13

      I was on Zillow halfway through the video…
      ‘Poor’ is an oddity, rich in spirit, perhaps not needing or desiring world riches.
      My people, ‘salt of the Earth.’ ❤️

    • @adventurellama7444
      @adventurellama7444 Před měsícem +11

      Tennessee resident here. Yes, Kentucky and Tennessee are amazingly beautiful

  • @liamwilson1058
    @liamwilson1058 Před měsícem +273

    Poor doesn’t mean bad. I’d live there, seems quiet and laid back. No poop all over the street and no one getting pulled out of their car at gun point.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +14

      True!

    • @LesterMoore
      @LesterMoore Před měsícem +18

      Looks like a good place to open a five table, 1 snooker pool table room. A counter for hamburger/fries and ice cold beer/soft drinks and coffee. Place for Socializing after the restaurant closes up for the night.

    • @grenzhochspannungshindernis
      @grenzhochspannungshindernis Před měsícem +5

      How else would you know you are in America then?😆

    • @christinaurban7229
      @christinaurban7229 Před měsícem +9

      Better than St Louis Mo.

    • @deanmason5900
      @deanmason5900 Před měsícem

      ​@christinaurba,or Dallas Texas.n7229

  • @gregorytremaine1164
    @gregorytremaine1164 Před měsícem +112

    The streets are clean. No graffiti. No tents. No homeless sprawled everywhere. No addicts standing in the middle of the street. No needles and beer bottles everywhere....

  • @JBrown-nf5ss
    @JBrown-nf5ss Před měsícem +140

    I have lived in Europe, Hawaii and all over the US. I would rather live in Owsley County (or anywhere else in Eastern KY/TN than in NYC, LA, etc. The people are friendly and I feel safer there than in the large cities.

    • @misterb5926
      @misterb5926 Před měsícem +7

      Less people, Less problems...the high tech, fast paced, social media and internet society is not good or wanted by everyone. Less Stress...more family, friends, good food, and enjoying nature.

    • @BangkokJohn
      @BangkokJohn Před 27 dny +1

      For sure you are safer and the area is clean. I bet the churches would feed you.

  • @backrowbrighton
    @backrowbrighton Před měsícem +49

    Hi from the UK, I'm an impartial observer but this quiet little town looked far from grim. It seemed clean and well maintained and had the essentials to support its community. Not everywhere needs artisan coffee shops or bakeries.

    • @awillis244
      @awillis244 Před 21 dnem

      Sag! U mean drugs are out there too. U mean they have money for drugs, unbelievable.

    • @FritzSmith-h4g
      @FritzSmith-h4g Před 17 hodinami

      "Hi, I'm from the UK" Note, most videos on CZcams exaggerate the facts just to get you to watch half-truths.
      To say "Osley County is the poorest in the US" is a great example. It suggests that he has travelled extensively to all the poorest places in the US.
      Hi, I'm from Montana. Also, an "impartial observer" of the truth, which is a rare find on CZcams.

  • @MarkFrost-zc5ne
    @MarkFrost-zc5ne Před měsícem +115

    That's nice of the store owner to give you a bottle of water for free

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +13

      Yes, he was a very nice guy. Perhaps I should have included him in the video, but he was a bit of an old-timer and I didn't want to make him feel uncomfortable in any way.

    • @marlanscott2508
      @marlanscott2508 Před 21 dnem +1

      I would've given that store owner a 100 dollar bill just for being open. 😊

  • @MattBegley-vc6zu
    @MattBegley-vc6zu Před měsícem +294

    I live in this little town, work full time EMS and vol. at the fire depts. it isn’t often that people from out of town have a nice thing to say about us. Yes we have crime,drugs, and bad people but everywhere else doe also. I appreciate the honesty and glad you didn’t point out “ the rough ones” to talk to like all the other people. I am actually the one driving by in the little green ford ranger in the video.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +34

      Oh wow - that's crazy! So we literally crossed paths?! Shoot, next time I'm back let's grab a coffee at the Old Bus Stop Diner - would love to hear more about life in Booneville. Thanks for watching, friend! Stay blessed

    • @MattBegley-vc6zu
      @MattBegley-vc6zu Před měsícem +33

      @@chopsticksandtrains I would love to. I could introduce you to some of the kindest people you will ever meet. And even show you around. I know I could get access to the old jail and you could look around. All of our fire/ rescue is 100% volunteers. I know the owners of bus stop ( it’s booneville we all know each other) and they are really good people.

    • @michaelsix9684
      @michaelsix9684 Před měsícem +6

      KY is a small state, things can be improved, haven't figured out the formula yet

    • @howlinwulf
      @howlinwulf Před měsícem +10

      ​@@michaelsix9684hey people here need a few jobs a few doctors and not much change.
      We like it laid back like this.

    • @timothylanders3189
      @timothylanders3189 Před měsícem +5

      Couldn't see a green Ranger but, cool to know. Lovely place for sure. You're blessed :)

  • @charlesburke2379
    @charlesburke2379 Před měsícem +247

    What you see is poor people dealing with their hardship without becoming street criminals.

  • @hedgehog5001
    @hedgehog5001 Před měsícem +84

    Poorest in what capacity? Financially maybe but in character, friendliness, warmth, love for others, an ability to survive against the odds......the Appalaichan folk are amongst the richest. Blessing to you wonderful people.

    • @angelcitystudio
      @angelcitystudio Před měsícem +1

      Same thing can be said about poor in the inner city.... But no way... They are dangerous and should be feared and hated, right?

    • @davianoinglesias5030
      @davianoinglesias5030 Před měsícem +2

      Just like in the city, should get same treatment

  • @johnstrobel8051
    @johnstrobel8051 Před měsícem +178

    The books say the people are poor up there , but they are rich when it comes to living in such a beautiful place

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +9

      Yes, absolutely!

    • @user-ib1bo2sr8i
      @user-ib1bo2sr8i Před měsícem +6

      Not really. Everything is trashed out including the people. It's beautiful land covered in human rubble, and garbage. East Kentucky is 3rd world nowadays.

    • @kevinjames5948
      @kevinjames5948 Před měsícem

      Lmao white delusion

    • @Robmancan1987
      @Robmancan1987 Před měsícem +16

      I live about an hour from there and looks can be deceiving. These old people aren't necessarily poor. They do live like it. My grandmother for example wears clothes she's had for 30 years. She even has a pair of shoes with a hole in them. Old house that hasn't been renovated in 40 years. But she could pay cash for a brand new Lamborghini tomorrow if she wanted. Just because you don't spend money like Congress doesn't mean your poor. These people grew up very different than most of America.
      I would say people living on the streets and under overpasses are poor.
      We mainly like living how we live. We like helping each other and being left alone. We already have a savior. Most aren't looking for another one.

    • @user-Cam-x7b
      @user-Cam-x7b Před měsícem +10

      Having the freedom to live the way you want, in that you don’t have to get caught up in the racket of consumerism… life issues you greater peace of mind when you you live it on your terms, and are not bound up by the economic slavery of a greedy and corrupt financial system. Who cares what car you drive or whether or not you have designer clothes (jeans with huge rips and tears for example lol) . If your home is outdated in decor and finishes….soooooo what?! At some point life just needs to stand still and be consistent with the atmosphere of we would consider yesteryear. It is okay …it is good. Many of yesteryear appliances are far more reliable than modern appliances which are intentionally built to be come obsolete in less than 10 years … and in some cases, good luck with that Samsung washing machine that needs repairs and eventually dies in just five years. And all of those appliances end up in a big dump site ….. increasing an already overwhelmed environment. Ya know?. The way we are conditioned to think/evaluate what is actually rich or poor … isn’t a healthy perspective in MHOP.

  • @c-hawkins4358
    @c-hawkins4358 Před měsícem +124

    It's a very clean town, pride in ownership.

    • @guxtinction
      @guxtinction Před měsícem +2

      That's easy to do when there's no people there

  • @BigfootRidge
    @BigfootRidge Před měsícem +49

    My wife and I live in our motor home in West Virginia. Believe me we’re not rich, we’re happy though and God has blessed us richly. We have contentment and God. We’re good.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +4

      Glad you stumbled upon the video! I hope you'll consider subbing to the channel for future adventures!

    • @mouseandryforever6848
      @mouseandryforever6848 Před 15 dny +1

      Most people think money makes blessings, but it doesn't. What u have is much more valuable.

    • @aliciamarie9704
      @aliciamarie9704 Před 4 dny

      I hope God takes good care of you and doesn’t see the need to bring you too much suffering.

    • @BigfootRidge
      @BigfootRidge Před 4 dny

      @@aliciamarie9704 not too much anyway.

  • @marystewart1125
    @marystewart1125 Před měsícem +158

    I recently left apparently Philly for KY. It’s like living in a Hallmark movie. It’s so wholesome after stepping over needles and urine for a decade. I love the people here. They are all family. Go Cats!

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +5

      Thanks for watching Mary! I hope your new life in KY is going well!

    • @harrybond1485
      @harrybond1485 Před měsícem +3

      Are you kidding me.That area is just strewn with meth labs

    • @kaym7704
      @kaym7704 Před měsícem +2

      When hardly anyone lives there, yeah you’re not going to find much.

    • @deanmason5900
      @deanmason5900 Před měsícem +1

      @@kaym7704 Sounds like the place I would be looking for. Great Grandfather was from Eastern KENTUCKY served three years in the 22nd KENTUCKY Volunteer Infantry USA .

    • @stevehicks8944
      @stevehicks8944 Před měsícem +2

      Sure about that? Fentanyl is the drug of choice in SE KY these days, like it is in most of the U.S. I know this because my wife and I own property in SE KY. Have you ever been to SE KY?

  • @YOUR_INDEPENDENT_NEWS
    @YOUR_INDEPENDENT_NEWS Před měsícem +154

    In the South it's not all about money it's about living the way we want that brings happiness.

    • @CoolHandLuke01
      @CoolHandLuke01 Před měsícem +1

      Nothing is all about anything.

    • @elliottture6979
      @elliottture6979 Před měsícem +1

      Atlanta and Miami are in the south.

    • @greenwave819
      @greenwave819 Před měsícem

      @@CoolHandLuke01 huh?

    • @greenwave819
      @greenwave819 Před měsícem +4

      @@elliottture6979 ATL maybe, Miami no

    • @stephaniepersin4222
      @stephaniepersin4222 Před měsícem

      @@YOUR_INDEPENDENT_NEWS it's like that in the NE too. Glorifying everything in the south gets old.

  • @larrydbeal1
    @larrydbeal1 Před měsícem +316

    No graffiti.... no burned down buildings.... I'll take it

    • @markbrown-rq6is
      @markbrown-rq6is Před měsícem +13

      beautiful

    • @GaryBlake-ij1zt
      @GaryBlake-ij1zt Před měsícem +9

      Mountain empire best place in the world.

    • @Statickification
      @Statickification Před měsícem +5

      Yeah, enjoy those old, uninhabited buildings that time and no money to fix them is tearing down quite nicely.

    • @jamesknight4633
      @jamesknight4633 Před měsícem +17

      Looks like a nice clean place to live, no blacks running amok, no graffiti , no trash, no homeless. I’ll take it.

    • @Statickification
      @Statickification Před měsícem

      @@jamesknight4633 I stay away because all the in-bred hillbillies myself.

  • @erocker78
    @erocker78 Před měsícem +73

    I would love to buy a home and retire surrounded with this kind of scenery. They might be poor but at least they live in peace and do not have to be worry about being annoyed or bothered by anyone else.

  • @ericwitt4359
    @ericwitt4359 Před měsícem +209

    No anti-male sentiment, no PC, no free speech rules, no gang violence, no burned down buildings, no high taxes ... Mmmm any houses for rent there?

    • @howlinwulf
      @howlinwulf Před měsícem +16

      You can buy easy here.
      No need to rent.

    • @dyter07
      @dyter07 Před měsícem +10

      @@howlinwulf I just checked the prices, 100k minimum

    • @debrascott8492
      @debrascott8492 Před měsícem +11

      I live in Kentucky and Owsley County (as small as it is) is very well known for drug dealing. It is actually a breeding ground for drug dealers. There is no law enforcement, so no one really cares what goes on. Why should they.

    • @barhat961
      @barhat961 Před měsícem

      PC?

    • @nuavecmoi
      @nuavecmoi Před měsícem

      @@dyter07seriously? 😬

  • @g-man7938
    @g-man7938 Před měsícem +63

    I gave you a thumbs up for the commentary at the end of the video, thanks for being positive and not trashing the place. 👍

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +7

      Glad you watched till the end! Thanks for the support! That region is awesome - I seem to hit it off with the people very well down there. They could tell I was an out-of-towner and some seemed a little suspicious at first, but once we got to chatting we could have talked all day. When I left the diner some of the locals told me they hope I'll come back and visit them again soon! Not the workers, but just some common local folks. Amazing experience.

  • @turquoise950
    @turquoise950 Před měsícem +127

    It is the kind of place where you can feel perfectly safe 100% of the time!

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +13

      Haha, right?! “No homeless people and I can even go out at night!” 🤪

    • @TentaclePentacle
      @TentaclePentacle Před měsícem +9

      eh don't feel too safe there are bears and mountain lions.

    • @lilbob369
      @lilbob369 Před měsícem +8

      That’s a very clean dollar store. Not like here in Louisiana. We earn more money probably but I would rather live with them. Nice folks. We have lots of drug addicts and dealers here but we earn more money. Money helps but it’s not everything. Less people more peace and quiet. Just move my do not far from there across the gap to m VA. A man needs a good pocket knife and the Philly cheese steak is the way to go. You want delicious food you need to visit poor poor Louisiana. Great gas station food

    • @Washedintheblood1988
      @Washedintheblood1988 Před měsícem +4

      Wonder why that is?

    • @louyork8379
      @louyork8379 Před měsícem +15

      @@Washedintheblood1988it’s the lack of pigmentation in the residents

  • @KUPHAN0812
    @KUPHAN0812 Před měsícem +16

    My family lives in Booneville, my cousin was the Sheriff for a few years - amazing people in this part of the county. Once the coal and tobacco leases dried up not a lot of other options for revenue. Certainly some of the nicest and most resourceful people on the planet.

  • @LindaMcDonald-vl3rt
    @LindaMcDonald-vl3rt Před měsícem +37

    No garbage laying around. Looks clean.

  • @The.Nasty.
    @The.Nasty. Před měsícem +82

    I used to live a couple hours from there…
    It is poor, but the countryside in that region of the USA is beautiful and the people are usually very friendly and happy to chat, especially the old timers.
    Glad you got to get some fresh air state-side buddy.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +13

      Oh, no kidding? It sure is a small world, 'ay! Yeah, it really is a beautiful area and the people were wonderful.

    • @The.Nasty.
      @The.Nasty. Před měsícem +5

      @@chopsticksandtrains it truly is a small one!

    • @dongshengdi773
      @dongshengdi773 Před měsícem +8

      ​@@chopsticksandtrainsThis place is the real homeless people in America.
      Their houses are small but better than in rural China.
      Even the homeless people in America have houses

    • @theaveragejoe5781
      @theaveragejoe5781 Před měsícem +9

      West Virginia is very beautiful.

    • @The.Nasty.
      @The.Nasty. Před měsícem +8

      @@dongshengdi773 I’ve always said that about where I came from too…
      People are all poor, together.
      I never saw someone without a home, even the most down-and-out people could afford a small trailer or a little plot of land.

  • @Fritha71
    @Fritha71 Před měsícem +19

    Hi from Finland! This was a nice little video, love seeing the America that is always hidden from the rest of the world. I'd rather travel to Booneville than to present day San Fransisco, that's for sure.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +1

      This is one of my first comments from Finland! What a pleasant surprise! So glad you stumbled upon my video and I hope you'll consider following my channel for lots of future adventures!

  • @mickeypaul7540
    @mickeypaul7540 Před měsícem +5

    My mothers family is from Owsley 12 kids my grandfather was an Isaacs my grandmother a Harvey my aunt Eileen always said they were the poorest people in the poorest county in the poorest state so they were the poorest people in the United States we lived there one summer and it was paradise to me I visit each year to fill my soul and walk the ground my people walked and visit our cemetery thank you for posting this mp

  • @jamessullivan9992
    @jamessullivan9992 Před měsícem +46

    back in the 70's every town in Appalachia had some old timers witling in front of a store.

  • @michaelsix9684
    @michaelsix9684 Před měsícem +38

    instead of sending money to the Ukraine, why not spend it on places like this?

    • @Northernmike100
      @Northernmike100 Před měsícem

      The better question is, why do people from areas like that vote for a party that’s only platform is to cut rich people’s taxes and won’t support a party that wants to improve their lives????

  • @KarenRodriguez-bi7ft
    @KarenRodriguez-bi7ft Před měsícem +57

    Thank you for this tour. I was shocked when you said it was the poorest place in America. Yet, it was nice and clean. Being poor doesn’t mean you have to be dirty or destructive. This town gave me a lump in my throat because I got to see people who value and appreciate what little they have.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +6

      Yes, that was one of the most striking things about it! Statistically, Owsley is apparently the poorest place in the country... Yet, no litter, no graffiti, no weirdos out on the street causing trouble... instead is was clean, the people were nice and it was a very patriotic place. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Your contribution means a lot to me! Stay blessed, Karen. 🙏🌹

    • @FieldsOfGold149
      @FieldsOfGold149 Před měsícem +1

      @@chopsticksandtrains you are correct

    • @KarenRodriguez-bi7ft
      @KarenRodriguez-bi7ft Před měsícem +1

      @@chopsticksandtrains Yes, no graffiti. I completely forgot about that!

    • @LaurieValdez-zk3dy
      @LaurieValdez-zk3dy Před měsícem

      Everything is falling apart😢

    • @FieldsOfGold149
      @FieldsOfGold149 Před měsícem +1

      @@LaurieValdez-zk3dy no videographers don’t show the good, this video was the most respectful, yes in case everyone hasn’t noticed drugs and their dangers are everywhere the percentages are the same equal to the population. I will try to start showing everything videographers failed to do they many nice newer apartment they don’t show …. Poorest is used improperly it’s low population so the funding is lower.

  • @Jimmy-wl2iw
    @Jimmy-wl2iw Před měsícem +42

    Been to Boonesville, I reside about three hours west in Elizabethtown. Not originally from here, best people you’ll ever meet 😊

  • @georgewhitehead8185
    @georgewhitehead8185 Před měsícem +39

    No homeless flopped on the street. No needles = nice. Pleasant Mural on the wall, with no graffiti. No one has stolen the bell by the Boone marker/sign. Nice Town. Dr. George Whitehead

    • @annjames1837
      @annjames1837 Před měsícem +1

      13% are missing

    • @collinsmwangi2079
      @collinsmwangi2079 Před měsícem

      We are now over 17%😎​@@annjames1837

    • @prettykitty5416
      @prettykitty5416 Před měsícem

      It’s only 5,000 people….ANY town with so little people will be like this😑

    • @heathernikki5734
      @heathernikki5734 Před 6 dny

      @@prettykitty5416absolutely not true, lived in a small town in NC with a population less than that. Was not the same.

  • @MichaelSmith4501-jd8pu
    @MichaelSmith4501-jd8pu Před měsícem +52

    I never saw a prettier state when I was truck driving.

    • @markrichards6863
      @markrichards6863 Před měsícem +1

      I would never live in a state that does not have a coastline.

    • @stevehicks8944
      @stevehicks8944 Před měsícem +5

      Then, you are condemned to miss out on the most beautiful parts of the U.S.

    • @ccrider00
      @ccrider00 Před měsícem +3

      Tennessee is eye pleasing also along the interstate.

    • @annjames1837
      @annjames1837 Před měsícem

      ​@@markrichards6863good

    • @annjames1837
      @annjames1837 Před měsícem

      ​@@ccrider00Tennessee has become a traffic nightmare because if the influx of blue state in vaders

  • @judypierce7028
    @judypierce7028 Před měsícem +9

    I am sorry to burst your bubble, but the poorest place in the US is Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The median income on this Native American Reservation is well below poverty level. There are few, if any, places for employment. There are no banks, beautify salons, barber shops, dry cleaning, fast food places, and decent gas convenience stories. However, there is one somewhat small convenience store, a small hospital, and small supermarket when it is open. I have been assisting several schools on the Reservation since 2009 and you cannot tell me that Owsley County is the poorest place in the US.

  • @ejwa12
    @ejwa12 Před měsícem +35

    I grew up just a few miles south of Owsley County in Clay County. My grandmother was from Owsley and I still have distant kin there today. Booneville has gone down both in size and population since the main resources of logging and coal has both been depleted. If you noticed the empty lots between the store buildings, there were stores there too. One whole block of downtown burned and was never rebuilt. It lacks a lot of things but I can think of many places that are worse to live.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +3

      Thanks for sharing those details! Very interesting to read.

    • @BonsaiBuckeye
      @BonsaiBuckeye Před měsícem +2

      My family lived there years past...Bowling and Taylor

  • @bigcahuna42366
    @bigcahuna42366 Před měsícem +7

    For being a very poor town, most of the buildings in Booneville appear to be in very decent shape. Much better than places like Gary, IN or the Kensington borough of Philly.

  • @BleuCzech
    @BleuCzech Před měsícem +30

    My best bud has been movin from NYC for Booneville for about 10 years. Nothing happens too fast there. It's just the sounds of nature anywhere you go. Easy to get lost. We went to a little church one Sunday. Got lost the next day, and found a market went inside and told the clerk we didn't know the address but there was a little church at the corner. Someone in line says , oh I know you guys were in my church, lol

  • @Kyfried
    @Kyfried Před měsícem +59

    Best places to be is a town like this. No stupidity or foolishness like the rest of the US. Don't need lots of money too live a real life.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +5

      Thanks for tuning in, sir! :)

    • @kd6836
      @kd6836 Před měsícem +12

      Exactly. People who love the cities, would you rather spend a night on the streets of a major American city or Booneville? The next morning you’ll be alive in Booneville.

    • @harrybond1485
      @harrybond1485 Před měsícem

      Wrong, all there is is stupidity.

    • @collinsmwangi2079
      @collinsmwangi2079 Před měsícem

      Everyone needs money they just aren't smart enough to be rich

  • @happytomeetyou2047
    @happytomeetyou2047 Před měsícem +22

    Kentucky is so beautiful

  • @user-oj5sg9ot6y
    @user-oj5sg9ot6y Před měsícem +17

    This is my type of town 👍
    From Guam, USA 🇺🇸

  • @blacktoothgrin4348
    @blacktoothgrin4348 Před měsícem +3

    Most the people out there are extremely humble, and generous folk, but dont get it wrong, they can easily make you disappear out in the woods.

  • @thomasarchambault9463
    @thomasarchambault9463 Před měsícem +62

    No garbage littering the streets, No spray paint on the walls. I guess there really is a difference when comparing breeds. 🧐

    • @angelcitystudio
      @angelcitystudio Před měsícem +9

      The "breed" you are speaking of are still better though. Not nearly as racist or ignorant and they still have their teeth. So glad I dont have to spend my life comparing myself to other races or other poor people in order to boost my self esteem.

    • @thomasarchambault9463
      @thomasarchambault9463 Před měsícem +6

      @@angelcitystudio Well, it’s a free country.

    • @davianoinglesias5030
      @davianoinglesias5030 Před měsícem +2

      True, the native people are the superior breed when it comes to conserving the environment

    • @michaelmurphy4387
      @michaelmurphy4387 Před měsícem

      Boo, Hoo.

    • @thomasarchambault9463
      @thomasarchambault9463 Před měsícem +5

      @@davianoinglesias5030 Really? Then why do all the reservations look so trashy? Respectfully, this is a serious question. I am in no way trying to sound rude or demeaning so please don’t take it that way. Thank you for replying in advance.

  • @johnrobbins9928
    @johnrobbins9928 Před měsícem +3

    Looks like a nice little town.
    Peaceful, quiet, well kept.
    I like it !

  • @MegaRiffraff
    @MegaRiffraff Před měsícem +9

    I moved to southern Kentucky 7 years ago from Memphis Tennessee, it is a beautiful and safe state, land is very reasonably priced, except for flat farm land it’s high dollar 💵! I have to drive to Nashville for my job but I’ll take it , when i get up early and go to work i dont have to pick up the garbage out of my yard and no one’s tryed to break into my car ! 👍🏻

  • @saltydogz4657
    @saltydogz4657 Před měsícem +15

    I just looked. Booneville has a population of 168, in a county of 5,000 people. With so few people, I expect it doesn't generate much financially. For a town of 168, it actually looks rather sizeable. Most places of that size only have a post office and perhaps a service station. A lot of those small towns in Appalachia were once bigger and have pretty much dried up, especially the old coal boom towns that thrived in the 1950s. Not sure if Ousley county ever fell into that framework. I lived part of my life in eastern Kentucky, but I don't ever recall being anywhere near there. He's right about perspective. I've travelled to over 60 countries and lived in a few of them. Some were shockingly poor. But the people were nice and seemed happy. For that matter, when I was in law school in the Boston area (yeah, JD Vance isn't the only person from that area with an Ivy League education, there are actually quite a few), I did law clinics for indigent residents, and many in Massachusetts were just as poor as anywhere else, and it's considered a high-end state. The same could be said for when I lived in California, and now Hawaii. People see the world as they want to see it. You have to really open your eyes to see things as they actually are.

  • @trevorharris5374
    @trevorharris5374 Před měsícem +22

    Looks so clean and tidy thanks for sharing this.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +4

      Glad you enjoyed the vid, Trevor!

    • @trevorharris5374
      @trevorharris5374 Před měsícem +5

      @@chopsticksandtrains your welcome, I'm from England and I could live there ok. Nice quiet town and slow pace of life.

  • @natet5959
    @natet5959 Před měsícem +5

    Kentucky is a beautiful state. Lots of natural beauty in every corner. It's gorgeous in the spring and fall, but gray and lifeless in the winter. If I had the money, I would keep my house in Kentucky and buy one in Arizona for the winter.

  • @julitosnijders3623
    @julitosnijders3623 Před měsícem +2

    Nice place. Clean en i could feel a good energy even its a video.

  • @maggie2759
    @maggie2759 Před měsícem +5

    I loved your video... greetings from london, England...

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem

      Hey Maggie, always a wonderful feeling to receive comments from friends across the pond! Stay blessed!

  • @user-zb5tq9yl2h
    @user-zb5tq9yl2h Před měsícem +17

    I love quiet and solemn place.place where no drama needed.

  • @truckerbrandonsmith
    @truckerbrandonsmith Před měsícem +30

    Kentucky is truly an amazing place with some of the most friendly people in the country. I lived in Harlan county,KY when I was young it was a great place to be I love Cumberland state park and the Appalachian mountains there’s so much stuff to do outdoors. I miss Kentucky we had to move away because my moms job moved outtve state so now we are in Illinois I hate it here, but Kentucky is my true home ❤️ I visit Kentucky every year maybe one day I’ll be able to move back the only problem is there is limited job opportunities, but man the people awesome they help out strangers down there true southern hospitality, and the scenery in that state is breathtaking. The most underrated state in America imo.

  • @woodhippie5643
    @woodhippie5643 Před měsícem +18

    My family is from there. I still own part of the family farm. My family moved to this area around 1850. I don't live there full time but visit our property there as much as possible. It is a truly nice place.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +4

      Too bad I didn't bump into you while I was there - would have been very interesting to grab a coffee and hear you tell me more about life in the town! Thanks for watching/commenting!

    • @stevehicks8944
      @stevehicks8944 Před měsícem +2

      My wife’s family still owns the original land grant her paternal great great great great grandfather received for fighting in the American Revolution. He took possession of the land in 1799.

  • @BleuCzech
    @BleuCzech Před měsícem +24

    People around there have a different view of what makes you rich or poor. They are resilient, honorable folks. You'd be surprised at what can be hidden in the woods!

  • @MelsRNRETRO
    @MelsRNRETRO Před měsícem +2

    Awesome Review of a great town. Those little dinners are best eating in the US. Too bad about the hair cut. If you stay longer and go to the churches the locals will tell you best time to catch the barber.

  • @alex-ur3pu
    @alex-ur3pu Před měsícem +28

    Very nice! I live in a town in Australia far north Queensland with 1000 people & really appreciate the nature out here (yes including the brown snakes (haven't come across any taipans)). Country life is where it's at!

    • @larryhatfield7372
      @larryhatfield7372 Před měsícem +6

      I use to live in some little towns in QLD , capela , Middlemount when I worked in the mines there , sure miss it

  • @Big_Jims_American_Dream
    @Big_Jims_American_Dream Před měsícem +12

    Northern VA guy here -- I'll come check this place out, maybe in the Fall. Nice video.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +2

      Thanks for tuning in, Big Jim! Safe travels my friend! I hope you’ll consider following the channel! I have a lot in the pipeline! Stay blessed

  • @mariobozzola973
    @mariobozzola973 Před měsícem +13

    For being poor it looks very well taken care. It’s a place I would love to visit.

  • @user-xd9gn1eu2e
    @user-xd9gn1eu2e Před měsícem +7

    Bonneville looks a thousand times cleaner than other parts of the country.

  • @drewsizemore4389
    @drewsizemore4389 Před měsícem +11

    I live a couple counties over but, i have stayed the night a few times here in Boonville and Owsley co: Some of the best people i have truly ever met, times are changing and we need each other NOW more than ever... Ty @Chopsticks and Trains for doing this and visiting my beautiful state/stomping grounds 💌🤟🍀

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +3

      I really appreciate your comment. There are so many little counties and towns out there that most people will never hear of. I really want to get out there and do some serious exploring. The people and the nature were fantastic out there! Glad you enjoyed the video and many blessings to you and your family, my friend.

    • @drewsizemore4389
      @drewsizemore4389 Před měsícem

      @@chopsticksandtrains

    • @drewsizemore4389
      @drewsizemore4389 Před 26 dny +1

      @@chopsticksandtrains if you ever wanna come to Leslie County aka the homeplace to the holler called "Hell For Certain"*which is were i was born, contact me! I'd love you show you around, the backstory, the forrest, the EVERYTHING needs to be documented before its gone away to nothing... due to no exposure and alot more i can't go into in a comment! Thanks for the reply if anything! GOD BLESS YOU

  • @davidneal6920
    @davidneal6920 Před měsícem +8

    A very well kept small town. Nice and tidy. Really struck me was the road margins nice and tidy and no rubbish. Must have some proud residents and good local council who keep things tidy 🇺🇸 🇳🇿

  • @fredbigornia1814
    @fredbigornia1814 Před měsícem +6

    Of course it is a small town it is not necessarily poor, population maybe small but rich in history, less traffic no pollution, rich in nature a peaceful quiet town..💖

  • @georgewettig1860
    @georgewettig1860 Před měsícem +3

    Having been born and raised in Kentucky, I can honestly say that you have found the uncommon wealth of the Commonwealth. Cheers

  • @Mynx2022
    @Mynx2022 Před měsícem +10

    Loved it, thank you kindly for your time ❤

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem

      Glad you enjoyed it Diana! Hope you'll consider following my channel for more adventures (if you aren't already). Stay blessed.

  • @williamedwardhackman4695
    @williamedwardhackman4695 Před měsícem +19

    That city in Kentucky looks great to me anyway.

  • @notademonrat
    @notademonrat Před měsícem +10

    I grew up in a small town like this, sadly only way to keep it alive is rich people that want to live in a small town and government money. Theres really no way to make a living with a small business in a town like this. But if you can afford to live there its a great place to raise a family.

  • @nicholast.minton1922
    @nicholast.minton1922 Před měsícem +9

    I’m from The Laurel/Clay County line in a community named Bush addressed London, KY but also shared my raising in Manchester, KY - been all over the country and here’s as good anywhere to call home… Thanks for the great video - gained a new subscriber!!!

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +1

      Thank you so much for subbing and I enjoyed reading your comment! Glad to have you along for the ride!

    • @edro3838
      @edro3838 Před 29 dny

      Born in Clay County as well. Dad was from Leslie. Lived a long time in Fayette. Living in TX now. Sure miss KY 😉

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před 29 dny

      @@edro3838 Hey, Texas ain't bad! Got the best country music out there!

    • @edro3838
      @edro3838 Před 29 dny

      @@chopsticksandtrains 👍🤣

    • @johngregory7841
      @johngregory7841 Před 21 dnem

      Some of my kinfolk are buried in a tiny little cemetery in Marydell. Just up the way past Bush. Gorgeous area though it was interesting trying to (and eventually making it to the site) get to the secluded cemetery.

  • @DemocratsRPedos
    @DemocratsRPedos Před měsícem +8

    I grew up in the poorest county, one of the poorest in the country too, now the richest county in Georgia. Forsyth county, right in the middle of Appalachia, in north central Georgia. Good times.

  • @rogerhurst8851
    @rogerhurst8851 Před měsícem +4

    What great looking place to live, love from Bristol England UK.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem

      Awesome to have a viewer from the UK here! I spent a month in London before, but wasn't vlogging then. Loved my time in England!

  • @lisaking8187
    @lisaking8187 Před měsícem +3

    I was born and raised in South Eastern Kentucky and I know how people live because we live the same way. like my daddy told me people can only do the best they can do. we may not be rich but we're rich in other way's like love for our families neighbors that help each other. people always come back in these mountains and go to the worst places. you need to go to places like whitesburg, Pikeville, Harlan.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem

      Thanks for that wonderful comment, Lisa. I would love to visit those places, and perhaps someday I will! Stay blessed!

  • @scenicdriveways6708
    @scenicdriveways6708 Před měsícem +10

    Nice video, thanks for sharing it with us.
    My wife and I live in Barren County, Kentucky. Although there are a lot of poor counties in Kentucky, the people, for the most part, are very nice. We've traveled through a lot of Kentucky and the scenery is beautiful just about everywhere you go, except maybe in the large cities. We love picking out a spot on the map and just going for a drive to see what's there.
    Also, did you know that Kentucky is home to the world's longest cave system in Mammoth Cave National Park, the greatest length of navigable waterways and streams in the contiguous United States, and the two largest artificial lakes east of the Mississippi River.

  • @badazzcorvette8970
    @badazzcorvette8970 Před měsícem +9

    Wanna bet , they think Mitch McConnell and Donald Trump are fighting for them 😂😂😂😂😂😂! Jack

  • @lindazelepugas1000
    @lindazelepugas1000 Před měsícem +3

    Met some of the nicest people when I did a mission trip when I was a teenager

  • @mrMacGoover
    @mrMacGoover Před měsícem +15

    I love Kentucky, I volunteered to do reno work at a Bible College there in my early 20's and the land was beutiful with it's rolling treetop canopies and women who in most cases are traditional in the sense of wearing dresses and posses the ability to keep a home and a man.

  • @marlanscott2508
    @marlanscott2508 Před 21 dnem +3

    Sometimes peace, quiet, and serenity is worth a whole lot more. 😊

  • @wanderingweh405
    @wanderingweh405 Před měsícem +10

    also some of the wealthiest and most generous people on earth in many ways

  • @kennethsmith8844
    @kennethsmith8844 Před měsícem +2

    In 1936 I was born in Gilbert, Az. My mother said she had a dirt floor which she covered with burlap. My parents had come from Okla on way to California. Poor, poor, people

  • @Randy58-zn4ez
    @Randy58-zn4ez Před měsícem +4

    Did you notice that there was no litter and trash on the streets. I live in Indiana and went to basic training in Fort Knox Ky. The state of Kentucky does have some beautiful landscapes. It has a nice feel to it especially when it is raining.

  • @randycox1101
    @randycox1101 Před měsícem +7

    No stress..,
    No pressure.

  • @jeanheard4615
    @jeanheard4615 Před měsícem +2

    I love it the country side is great and no gangs no violence I wanna move there

  • @RyanTheLaiEn
    @RyanTheLaiEn Před měsícem +11

    What a trip! Literally and figuratively 😂 - awesome vid keep it up!

  • @richardcarroll2500
    @richardcarroll2500 Před 18 dny +2

    Paved roads, power lines, cars, stocked stores. Poorest place in America would be a paradise to a lot of people on earth.

  • @ourv9603
    @ourv9603 Před měsícem +5

    Couple of hundred years ago immigrants from the UK moved into those mountains
    and started farming THEN coal was discovered. The farmers did not want to give
    up their farms so the coal companies told them they could keep the top 6 inches.
    Farmers said well hell, thats all we use anyway. So the coal companies moved in and offered better pay than farming so most men went to work in the mines. A lot of strip mining too. But after several decades the coal ran out and the coal companies went
    home to NYC leaving the miners broke and unemployed. Some, the smart ones moved
    away to Detroit or Pittsburg and found good paying jobs but a terrible number stayed
    in the hills waiting for the mines to reopen. Too many waiting on welfare. Even today,
    still waiting.
    !

  • @ericscottstevens
    @ericscottstevens Před měsícem +2

    One concept floated around that Kentucky would be the new greenhouse hub for vegetables and other Hydroponics industries.
    Instead of shipping in fruits and vegetables all the from California, Kentucky would be the centralized ag version meeting obligations for the eastern seaboard. Flat land probably is sufficient for the plan but it may take decades to implement.

  • @cheaplaughkennedy2318
    @cheaplaughkennedy2318 Před měsícem +9

    Looks like a nice peaceful town .

  • @decnijfkris3706
    @decnijfkris3706 Před měsícem +6

    Booneville city has everything you'll need and it is clean

  • @wisdomleader85
    @wisdomleader85 Před měsícem +12

    It's quite refreshing to see you do a touring video to the rural areas. The scenery is indeed spectacular. I recall Vice did a documentary about the opioid problem in West Virginia years ago, which was also quite concerning.
    Great to see they still have a jukebox there, even though they don't use classic vinyl records anymore. 👍

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +2

      Thank you! And totally agree, love a good jukebox. Waffle House always loves when I visit because I keep that music coming 😁

  • @jgdyt
    @jgdyt Před měsícem +10

    There was one former Chinese youtuber, no name mentioned, who gave somewhat positive, and I think always respectful comments about China. He returned to the US and started giving very sarcastic and negative comments about rural parts of the U.S. As someone who has lived and continues to live in China but was from near one of the areas in the U.S. said youtuber trashed, I knew he was full of shit, and I lost a lot of respect for him. Sugarcoat China, shitcoat the U.S. That is really disingenuous and cheap. You on the other hand get it. This video was very nice. Thank you.

  • @rogerhurst8851
    @rogerhurst8851 Před měsícem +3

    Up against Kensington Avenue philadelphia, this looks like paradise.

  • @johnranallo424
    @johnranallo424 Před měsícem +2

    I live a few miles south in Tennessee. Wouldn't trade it for the world.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem

      Glad you found this video! Hope you'll consider following the channel for future adventures!

  • @HoneyHollowHomestead
    @HoneyHollowHomestead Před měsícem +7

    We have eaten at that restaurant in Booneville. They have the BEST mushroom/swiss burger I have ever had!

  • @rebeccawhittington1390
    @rebeccawhittington1390 Před měsícem +4

    Lovely old town. Quiet. Simpler times.

  • @TheDapperLad
    @TheDapperLad Před měsícem +6

    J.D. Vance grew up in MIDDLETOWN, OHIO. He's NOT from Kentucky. He had relatives in Kentucky that he would visit in the summer, but he is not native to Kentucky nor was he born and raised in the area. Furthermore, JD Vance has specifically said he views people from Eastern Kentucky as "lazy."

    • @ccrider00
      @ccrider00 Před měsícem

      The Whole south is laid back lazy---a part of the culture down there! 🧙‍♂️ ya darn tootin!!! 🧙‍♂️🎯💯❗😖

  • @rabokarabekian409
    @rabokarabekian409 Před 41 minutou

    I luv profoundly superficial drive-by vids like this. Partial stories are the BEST!

  • @56BIGM
    @56BIGM Před měsícem +5

    can't help but compare it to san francisco or philly among some others---nobody passed out or pooping on the sidewalk. earlier this year we took our first trip to kentucky --went to noah's arc. found the state quite attractive.

  • @FiremedicGross
    @FiremedicGross Před 21 dnem +2

    Its amazing how clean that little town is

  • @mickthurston9883
    @mickthurston9883 Před měsícem +4

    Really enjoyable. Seemed such a chill space. Mick London

  • @gregmaine7745
    @gregmaine7745 Před 19 dny +1

    I’m a FedEx courier. I served this area about 25 years ago. It’s about the same now as then. One thing certain, it would be really hard to find a more generous, helpful, kinder, prouder community than this.

  • @jimmyjohnson5475
    @jimmyjohnson5475 Před měsícem +3

    We respect each other and our land just don’t try anything stupid in a small town

  • @BrianJonson
    @BrianJonson Před měsícem +12

    Vance did not grow up in Appalachia. He grew up in SW Ohio, where I live right now. In fact, his hometown is 15 minutes from me. This is NOT Appalachia. Southeast Ohio is the "edge" of Appalachia, but SW Ohio is most definitely not.

  • @LindaCaudill-cb4ll
    @LindaCaudill-cb4ll Před měsícem +6

    I was raised in two countries I think south of Boonville. In Jackson Breathitt it is a small town too. The town is about two Maybe three blocks. A lot of drugs tho and no work. If they are working in the family owned and mostly families work in the store and I don't fell that's right. We have a lot of people would love to work. Alot of people have to drive about two hrs to Lexington to find a good job. I moved out of the mountains 27 years ago I never go back to many bad memories for me but it's a beautiful little town it has a lot more things like fast food restaurants and gas stations. The restaurant you went into I have eaten there many times they have great country cooking. I love that place to eat. You need to go to Jackson Breathitt Co. You might see more people especially in the morning. Nice video showing Boonville.

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +2

      Thanks for sharing your story, it was so interesting to read! Yes, next time I get the chance maybe I’ll try swing down to Jackson Breathitt! Stay blessed!

  • @ifallthehippies
    @ifallthehippies Před 25 dny +1

    These people are some of the wealthiest people in America!!! Pride, respect, dignity, and authenticity are the things that money can't buy. Id live there anytime over the city I live in now!!!!!

  • @kenm4898
    @kenm4898 Před měsícem +4

    Yeah. Drop by again to open an authentic "chop suey" restaurant.
    Got to get that first mover advantage Mr Chopsticks. 😂
    Nice bluegrass music for the outro. 👍

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +3

      Haha, OK, I'll get right on that! Yeah, couldn't make a Kentucky video without throwing some bluegrass music in there!

    • @kenm4898
      @kenm4898 Před měsícem +3

      @@chopsticksandtrains Well thanks for showing us the movie set for FX's Justified.🤣
      But I wonder if that town is that depopulated or are the residents that camera shy?🤔

    • @chopsticksandtrains
      @chopsticksandtrains  Před měsícem +3

      @@kenm4898LOL