Cities and Towns in Barren County, Kentucky
Founded in 1798, Barren County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Barren County was formed from Green County and Warren County. The city of Glasgow is the county seat. With FIPS code of 9, Barren County has a population of 44,544 and area of 491 square miles (1,272 km²).
List of all cities in Barren County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Austin, KY | 42123 | 270 |
| Cave City, KY | 42127 | 270 |
| Cooktown, KY | 42123 | 270 |
| Dry Fork, KY | 42141 | 270 |
| Dryfork, KY | 42131 | 270 |
| Eighty Eight, KY | 42130 | 270 |
| Etoile, KY | 42131 | 270 |
| Glasgow, KY | 42141 | 270 |
| 42142 | 270 | |
| 42156 | 270 | |
| Haywood, KY | 42141 | 270 |
| Hiseville, KY | 42152 | 270 |
| Lamb, KY | 42141 | 270 |
| Lucas, KY | 42156 | 270 |
| Park City, KY | 42160 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Barren County, Kentucky
Glasgow
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 15.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 14,000 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42141, 42142
- Latitude: 36.9959° N
- Longitude: 85.9119° W
Location and History
Glasgow is the county seat of Barren County, located in south-central Kentucky, approximately 90 miles from Louisville and 90 miles from Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 1799, Glasgow is named after Glasgow, Scotland, reflecting the heritage of many early settlers. The city was initially a trading center for farmers and livestock owners due to its strategic location near rivers and fertile lands. Its history includes a role in the Civil War, with the town seeing various skirmishes due to its proximity to the Tennessee border. Today, Glasgow remains a hub for agriculture, manufacturing, and small-town charm, featuring historic buildings and a lively community atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Glasgow is home to several educational institutions, including Glasgow High School and South Green Elementary. Notable landmarks include the Plaza Theatre, a restored 1930s movie palace, and the South Central Kentucky Cultural Center, showcasing the region’s history. Another major point of interest is Fort Williams, a historic Civil War site. The town also hosts the annual Glasgow Highland Games, celebrating its Scottish roots.
Cave City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 4.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,200 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42127
- Latitude: 37.1367° N
- Longitude: 85.9569° W
Location and History
Cave City is located in northern Barren County, close to Mammoth Cave National Park, making it a popular tourist destination. Established in the mid-1800s, Cave City owes its name to the many caves found in the surrounding region, most notably Mammoth Cave, the longest cave system in the world. The town developed primarily as a tourist stop for visitors heading to the cave, with early residents providing lodging and services. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century bolstered its economy, turning Cave City into a significant gateway for cave exploration.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cave City’s educational institutions include Caverna High School and Caverna Middle School, which serve the town and surrounding areas. Major landmarks include Dinosaur World, a family-friendly park featuring life-sized dinosaur sculptures, and the Crystal Onyx Cave, a local cave attraction. Cave City is also a key access point to Mammoth Cave National Park, drawing thousands of visitors each year to explore its subterranean wonders.
Park City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 550 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42160
- Latitude: 37.0931° N
- Longitude: 86.0447° W
Location and History
Park City is located in the southwestern part of Barren County, near the boundary of Mammoth Cave National Park. The town was initially established in the 1850s as Glasgow Junction, serving as a railroad hub for passengers traveling to Mammoth Cave. It was later renamed Park City in 1938 to reflect its proximity to the national park. Park City’s economy historically revolved around transportation and tourism, with the town playing a critical role in moving goods and people between Nashville and Louisville.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Park City Elementary School serves the local community’s educational needs. Major landmarks in Park City include the Bell’s Tavern Historic Site, which is the remains of a once-famous stagecoach stop and tavern built in the early 1800s. Another important site is the Mammoth Cave Railroad Bike & Hike Trail, a recreational trail that follows the route of the old railroad leading to the cave. The town’s proximity to Mammoth Cave National Park also makes it a prime spot for visitors to begin their exploration.
Hiseville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 240 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42152
- Latitude: 37.1306° N
- Longitude: 85.7994° W
Location and History
Hiseville is a small town located in the eastern part of Barren County. Originally named Goosehorn, the town was renamed Hiseville in the 1860s after Congressman Elijah Hise, who was an advocate for the region. The town’s history is deeply tied to the agricultural industry, serving as a rural farming community with rich soil for crops and livestock. It remained a small, close-knit community with a strong connection to its historical roots and traditions, reflecting the simpler, slower pace of life common in rural Kentucky.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hiseville is home to Hiseville Elementary School, which serves the surrounding rural areas. While small, the town boasts some notable landmarks, such as the Hiseville Christian Church, established in the 19th century. It also serves as a gateway to the rural beauty of Barren County, with picturesque landscapes and farmland that showcase Kentucky’s natural charm. Nearby historical sites include old farmhouses and barns that reflect the town’s agricultural past.
Temple Hill
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42141 (shares with Glasgow)
- Latitude: 36.8694° N
- Longitude: 85.7975° W
Location and History
Temple Hill is located southeast of Glasgow in the rural heart of Barren County. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and named after the hilltop on which the community’s first church was built. Primarily an agricultural community, Temple Hill’s economy historically centered around farming and livestock, with tobacco being a significant crop in its early years. Despite its small size, the town has maintained a tight-knit community atmosphere, with many families having lived in the area for generations.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Temple Hill Elementary School serves as the town’s main educational institution. The town’s notable landmarks include the Temple Hill Baptist Church, which has been a central gathering place for residents since its founding. The surrounding area is dotted with scenic farmlands, rolling hills, and small creeks that contribute to the rural beauty of the region. Additionally, Temple Hill’s proximity to Barren River Lake makes it a short drive from outdoor recreational opportunities, such as boating and fishing.