Cities and Towns in Butler County, Missouri
Founded in 1849, Butler County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Butler County was formed from Wayne County. The city of Poplar Bluff is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Butler County has a population of 42,101 and area of 698 square miles (1,808 km²).
List of all cities in Butler County, MO alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Broseley, MO | 63932 | 573 |
| Fagus, MO | 63938 | 573 |
| Fisk, MO | 63940 | 573 |
| Harviell, MO | 63945 | 573 |
| Neelyville, MO | 63954 | 573 |
| Poplar Bluff, MO | 63901 | 573 |
| 63902 | 573 | |
| Qulin, MO | 63938 | 573 |
| 63961 | 573 | |
| Rombauer, MO | 63901 | 573 |
| 63962 | 573 |
Major Cities and Towns in Butler County, Missouri
Poplar Bluff
Overview
- Area: Approximately 12.98 square miles
- Population: About 17,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 63901, 63902
- Latitude: 36.7564° N
- Longitude: -90.3929° W
Location and History
Poplar Bluff, the county seat of Butler County, is located in southeastern Missouri, along the Black River. Founded in 1849, the city is named for its location on a bluff covered in poplar trees. Poplar Bluff quickly grew as a trading center, leveraging its proximity to river transportation and railroads. During the Civil War, the area experienced significant turmoil, as it was a contested region. After the war, Poplar Bluff became a vital hub for the timber and railroad industries, eventually diversifying into agriculture and manufacturing. Known as the “Gateway to the Ozarks,” Poplar Bluff today serves as a commercial and cultural center for the surrounding rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Poplar Bluff is served by the Poplar Bluff R-I School District, which includes Poplar Bluff High School, known for its academic programs and athletic achievements. Landmark sites in the city include the Margaret Harwell Art Museum, showcasing regional art, and the Historic Rodgers Theatre, an Art Deco theater that hosts films and performances. The Mark Twain National Forest and Wappapello Lake are nearby, providing outdoor recreation. The annual Butler County Fair and the Iron Horse Festival celebrate local culture, drawing residents and visitors alike to enjoy Poplar Bluff’s community spirit.
Qulin
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.25 square miles
- Population: Around 450 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 63961
- Latitude: 36.5942° N
- Longitude: -90.2495° W
Location and History
Qulin is a small town in southeastern Butler County, located near the St. Francis River. Established in the late 19th century, Qulin initially developed as an agricultural town, with much of the surrounding land dedicated to cotton, rice, and soybean farming. The town’s name is believed to be derived from a Native American word, reflecting its early history and ties to the natural environment. Qulin remains a close-knit rural community where farming plays a central role in both the economy and daily life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Qulin is part of the Twin Rivers R-X School District, with Qulin Elementary School serving local students. Landmarks in the town include the Qulin Veterans Memorial, honoring the town’s servicemen and women, and Qulin City Park, which offers green space and a playground for residents. The annual Qulin Picnic and Parade is a local favorite, featuring games, food, and festivities that celebrate the town’s rural roots. Nearby conservation areas offer outdoor recreation, and the town’s agricultural landscape provides a peaceful setting for residents and visitors alike.
Fisk
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.27 square miles
- Population: Around 320 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 63940
- Latitude: 36.7750° N
- Longitude: -90.2056° W
Location and History
Fisk is a small town in northeastern Butler County, located near the confluence of the Black and St. Francis Rivers. Founded in the early 1900s, Fisk developed primarily as a farming community, with rich soil ideal for agriculture. The town’s name honors Samuel J. Fisk, an early landowner and businessman who contributed to its growth. While small, Fisk became a hub for surrounding farms, with a post office, general store, and community gathering spaces. Today, Fisk retains its rural charm and agricultural traditions, with many residents connected to farming and small local businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fisk is served by the Twin Rivers R-X School District, with Fisk Elementary School providing local education. Notable landmarks in Fisk include the Fisk City Park, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities, and the Fisk Veterans Memorial, which commemorates local military service members. The town celebrates an annual community picnic, where residents gather to enjoy food, games, and entertainment. Nearby, the Mingo National Wildlife Refuge offers hiking and bird-watching opportunities, and the peaceful rural surroundings make Fisk a welcoming community with deep agricultural ties.
Neelyville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.38 square miles
- Population: About 480 (latest estimate)
- Zip Codes: 63954
- Latitude: 36.5609° N
- Longitude: -90.5126° W
Location and History
Neelyville is located in southern Butler County, near the Arkansas border. Founded in the 1870s, the town was named after the Neely family, early settlers who contributed to its establishment. Neelyville grew as a small farming community, with agriculture and timber industries providing economic support. The construction of the railroad helped connect Neelyville to larger markets, facilitating trade in crops and lumber. Despite its small size, Neelyville has maintained a strong sense of community, with local events and traditions bringing residents together.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Neelyville is served by the Neelyville R-IV School District, which includes Neelyville High School, known for its academic and sports programs. Key landmarks include Neelyville City Park, where community gatherings and sports events take place, and the Neelyville Community Center, a focal point for local events and meetings. The town’s annual Neelyville Days festival celebrates its agricultural roots with games, food, and music, fostering a spirit of community pride. The surrounding countryside offers scenic farmland and outdoor activities, making Neelyville a peaceful and welcoming rural town.
Broseley
Overview
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 300 (estimated for surrounding area)
- Zip Codes: 63932
- Latitude: 36.6714° N
- Longitude: -90.3298° W
Location and History
Broseley is an unincorporated community located in eastern Butler County. Founded in the early 20th century, the town was named by a settler from Broseley, England, who brought elements of British culture to the area. Initially developed as a farming community, Broseley attracted settlers interested in agriculture, and it has remained a rural community with strong ties to farming. Over the years, Broseley has maintained its peaceful, unincorporated character, with local families continuing to work the land and support one another through community activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Broseley is also served by the Twin Rivers R-X School District, with nearby Twin Rivers High School attended by students from Broseley and surrounding areas. The Broseley Community Center is a central gathering place for local events, including seasonal fairs, dinners, and community meetings. Though small, Broseley is known for its friendly and supportive atmosphere, with local churches and community organizations providing gathering spaces. The surrounding rural landscape, with farms and forests, reflects Broseley’s agricultural heritage and offers residents a quiet, close-knit community experience.
