Cities and Towns in Bedford County, Tennessee

Founded in 1807, Bedford County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Bedford County was formed from Rutherford County. The city of Shelbyville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 3, Bedford County has a population of 51,119 and area of 474 square miles (1,228 km²).

List of all cities in Bedford County, TN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bell Buckle, TN	37020	931
National Pen Company, TN	37161	931
Normandy, TN	37360	931
Royal, TN	37160	931
Shelbyville, TN	37160	931
	37161	931
	37162	931
Unionville, TN	37180	931
Wartrace, TN	37183	931

Bedford County, Tennessee, encompasses several notable cities and towns, each with its own unique characteristics and historical significance. Below is an overview of these communities, detailing their area, population, ZIP codes, geographic coordinates, location, history, major schools, and landmarks.

Shelbyville

• Area: Approximately 18.6 square miles
• Population: 23,923 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37160, 37161, 37162
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.4834° N, 86.4603° W

Shelbyville, the county seat of Bedford County, is centrally located in southern Middle Tennessee. Established in 1810, it was named in honor of Major General Isaac Shelby, a Revolutionary War hero and the first Governor of Kentucky. The city’s layout is notable for its courthouse square design, featuring the courthouse at the center of a full city block with streets intersecting at each corner—a model that influenced town planning across the United States. During the Civil War, Shelbyville was predominantly pro-Union, earning it the nickname “Little Boston.” Over time, the city has evolved into a hub for the Tennessee Walking Horse industry, hosting the annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, which draws enthusiasts from around the nation.

The Bedford County School District serves Shelbyville with several educational institutions, including Shelbyville Central High School, Harris Middle School, and a number of elementary schools. Prominent landmarks in Shelbyville include the historic Bedford County Courthouse, an architectural centerpiece of the downtown area, and the Fly Arts Center, which offers cultural and artistic programs to the community. Additionally, the Shelbyville Square is renowned in urban planning circles for its innovative design, which has been replicated in numerous town squares nationwide.

Bell Buckle

• Area: Approximately 0.6 square miles
• Population: 512 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37020
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.5912° N, 86.3544° W

Bell Buckle is a quaint town situated in the northeastern part of Bedford County. Founded in 1852, its name is believed to derive from a carved bell and buckle found on a tree, serving as a warning to settlers about Native American presence. The arrival of the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad spurred the town’s growth, making it a vital stop for commerce. Today, Bell Buckle is celebrated for its well-preserved Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene. The town hosts the annual RC Cola and MoonPie Festival, a whimsical event that attracts visitors nationwide.

Educationally, Bell Buckle is home to The Webb School, a prestigious private boarding and day school established in 1870, known for its rigorous academics and honor code. Landmarks include the Bell Buckle Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which showcases the town’s rich architectural heritage. The downtown area features charming antique shops, cafes, and the renowned Bell Buckle Café, offering Southern cuisine and live music.

Wartrace

• Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles
• Population: 651 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37183
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.5262° N, 86.3333° W

Located in eastern Bedford County, Wartrace was established in 1853 and quickly became a bustling railroad town due to its strategic position along the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad. The town’s name is derived from the War Trace Creek, which flows nearby. During the Civil War, Wartrace was a significant military staging area, with both Confederate and Union forces occupying the town at different times. The historic Walking Horse Hotel, built in 1917, stands as a testament to the town’s deep-rooted association with the Tennessee Walking Horse industry.

Wartrace Elementary School serves the educational needs of the community’s younger residents. The town’s historic district features several preserved buildings, including the Wartrace Depot, now a museum highlighting the town’s railroad heritage. The nearby Normandy Dam and Lake offer recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and hiking, making Wartrace a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Normandy

• Area: Approximately 0.3 square miles
• Population: 141 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37360
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.4498° N, 86.2572° W

Nestled in the southeastern corner of Bedford County, Normandy was established in 1852 and named after the French region, reflecting the heritage of some of its early settlers. The town’s development was closely tied to the railroad industry, serving as a vital link for transporting goods and passengers. The construction of the Normandy Dam in the 1970s created Normandy Lake, significantly impacting the town by providing flood control, hydroelectric power, and recreational opportunities.

Normandy’s small population means it does not have its own school system; students typically attend schools in nearby communities. The town is known for the Normandy Historic District, which includes several buildings dating back to the 19th century, reflecting its rich history. The Normandy Lake and surrounding Wildlife Management Area offer activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, attracting visitors seeking a tranquil natural setting.

Unionville

• Area: Approximately 4.5 square miles
• Population: 1,368 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37180
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.5970° N, 86.5650° W

Unionville is an unincorporated community located in the northwestern part of Bedford County. The area was settled in the early 19th century and has maintained its rural character over the years.