Pineville is one of the oldest settlements in Kentucky, located at the crossing of the Cumberland River by the Wilderness Road.

It was established as Cumberland Ford in 1781 and formed part of Governor Isaac Shelby's land tracts.

[8] Its riverside location has made it subject to flooding, including a devastating incident on April 4, 1977, in which a floodwall built in 1952 was overwhelmed and 200 houses were destroyed or damaged.

Many enjoy visiting Pine Mountain State Resort Park, where the popular attraction "Chained Rock" is located.

Burns was captivated by the history and beauty surrounding Pineville and appealed to Governor Flem D. Sampson of Barbourville to initiate some type of event to honor Dr. Walker.

She gained the support of other influential Bell Countians, and the 1931 Festival was staged at Clear Creek Springs on June 4.

[9] Pineville is located in northern Bell County at 36°45′43″N 83°41′42″W / 36.76194°N 83.69500°W / 36.76194; -83.69500 (36.7620301, −83.6949176),[10] along the Cumberland River, directly north of its water gap through Pine Mountain.

Schools located within the district include:[11] Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College maintains a campus in Pineville, serving as the only post-secondary education institution in the city.

The Kentucky Mountain Laurel Festival includes a Concert, carnival, Appalachian crafts, local talent, a Gala Parade and a beauty pageant.

Queen Candidates, young women chosen to represent their respective Universities in Kentucky are welcomed into the homes of Pineville citizens in the truest form of Southern Hospitality.

On Saturday after the Parade, a Coronation begins in the Laurel Cove, a natural amphitheater in the Pine Mountain State Park.

She is then crowned by the Governor of Kentucky with a tiara made of live, delicate, pink Mountain Laurels.