East Bernstadt | Kentucky Life | KET

In 1880 the state of Kentucky, eager to replenish its population during the rapid migration to the American West, formed its own Bureau of Immigration and sought to convince Europeans to settle here. They found a receptive audience in Switzerland, and Paul Schenk, the son of a former Swiss president, came to Laurel County and founded the town of Bernstadt in 1881.

The town, named for Swiss capital, Bern, was Kentucky's largest foreign colony. It was so prosperous that it spawned an offshoot, East Bernstadt. The Swiss produced wine, cheese and other agricultural goods, and some found work in the coal mines.

Today the residents of East Bernstadt hold on to their Swiss traditions, music and dance, as well as the German language. Some of the original churches and businesses still stand today. The residents' spirit of perseverance keeps the community together in good times and bad, including the March 2, 2012, tornado that struck the area, killing six people. The community continues to rebuild homes and lives.