Cities and Towns in Boyle County, Kentucky
Founded in 1842, Boyle County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Boyle County was formed from Lincoln County and Mercer County. The city of Danville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Boyle County has a population of 30,747 and area of 182 square miles (471 km²).
List of all cities in Boyle County, KY alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Danville, KY | 40422 | 859 |
40423 | 859 | |
40452 | 859 | |
Junction City, KY | 40440 | 859 |
Mitchellsburg, KY | 40452 | 859 |
Parksville, KY | 40464 | 859 |
Perryville, KY | 40468 | 859 |
Major Cities and Towns in Boyle County, Kentucky
Danville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 15.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 16,800 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40422
- Latitude: 37.6467° N
- Longitude: 84.7722° W
Location and History
Danville, the county seat of Boyle County, is located in central Kentucky, about 35 miles southwest of Lexington. The town was founded in 1787 and played a pivotal role in Kentucky’s early history. Known as the “City of Firsts,” Danville was the site of the first post office west of the Allegheny Mountains, the first courthouse, and the first capital of Kentucky when it was still a district of Virginia. The city’s early development was closely tied to the establishment of Centre College in 1819, one of the most prestigious liberal arts colleges in the region. During the Civil War, Danville was a strategic location for both Union and Confederate forces, with local hospitals treating wounded soldiers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Danville is home to several educational institutions, including Danville High School and Centre College, which remains a significant part of the city’s identity. Major landmarks include Constitution Square Historic Site, where the Kentucky Constitution was drafted, and the Ephraim McDowell House Museum, where Dr. McDowell performed the world’s first successful abdominal surgery in 1809. The Norton Center for the Arts on Centre College’s campus hosts performances and cultural events. Additionally, the Perryville Battlefield, located nearby, is a National Historic Landmark and the site of one of the most significant Civil War battles in Kentucky.
Perryville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 750 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40468
- Latitude: 37.6537° N
- Longitude: 84.9505° W
Location and History
Perryville is a small town located in western Boyle County, about 10 miles west of Danville. Founded in 1817, the town is best known for being the site of the Battle of Perryville during the Civil War in 1862, one of the largest and most significant battles fought in Kentucky. The battle marked a turning point in the war’s western theater, and today Perryville preserves its historical significance through the Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site. In its early years, Perryville was a thriving commercial center along the Chaplin River, benefiting from its position on key trade routes. The town’s historical importance and picturesque setting have helped maintain its small-town charm and appeal.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Perryville is served by Boyle County Schools, with nearby schools including Perryville Elementary School and Boyle County High School in Danville. The town’s primary landmark is the Perryville Battlefield, which attracts history enthusiasts and tourists year-round. The Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site includes a visitor center, museum, and preserved battlefields where reenactments take place annually. Another notable landmark is Merchants’ Row, a historic district featuring well-preserved 19th-century buildings that once housed thriving businesses. The Chaplin River, which runs through the town, offers scenic beauty and a tranquil backdrop to Perryville’s historic streets.
Junction City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,300 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40440
- Latitude: 37.5834° N
- Longitude: 84.7932° W
Location and History
Junction City is located just south of Danville in Boyle County. The town was originally known as Goresburg when it was founded in the late 19th century. It was renamed Junction City in 1882 due to its location at the junction of two important railroads, the Cincinnati Southern Railroad and the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. The railroads played a crucial role in the town’s early development, making it a key transportation hub in central Kentucky. While its role as a rail center has diminished, Junction City retains a strong sense of community and is known for its friendly small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Junction City is part of the Boyle County School District, with Junction City Elementary School serving local students. One of the key landmarks in the area is the historic Junction City Railroad Depot, which reflects the town’s rich railroad heritage. The community is also close to the William Whitley House, a historic mansion located in nearby Stanford that offers a glimpse into Kentucky’s pioneer past. Junction City’s location just outside Danville gives it easy access to the cultural and educational offerings of Centre College and the attractions of Danville, while maintaining its distinct small-town character.
Parksville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 40464
- Latitude: 37.6087° N
- Longitude: 84.9303° W
Location and History
Parksville is a small, rural town located in the southwestern part of Boyle County, about 10 miles west of Danville. It was founded in the early 19th century as a farming community, and agriculture remains a significant part of the local economy today. Parksville is situated near Herrington Lake, one of the largest lakes in central Kentucky, providing residents and visitors with opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. While the town itself has remained small, its proximity to the lake and the rolling hills of the region make it a picturesque and peaceful place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Parksville is served by the Boyle County School District, with Parksville Elementary School being a local institution that provides education to area children. Herrington Lake is the most prominent natural landmark near Parksville, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, and hiking. Another notable feature is the nearby Parksville Knob, a scenic area that provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Although small, Parksville’s natural beauty and rural charm make it a popular spot for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle within easy reach of Danville’s amenities and services.