Cities and Towns in Carlisle County, Kentucky
Founded in 1886, Carlisle County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Carlisle County was formed from Hickman County. The city of Bardwell is the county seat. With FIPS code of 39, Carlisle County has a population of 4,791 and area of 192 square miles (497 km²).
List of all cities in Carlisle County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Arlington, KY | 42021 | 270 |
| Bardwell, KY | 42023 | 270 |
| Cunningham, KY | 42035 | 270 |
| Milburn, KY | 42070 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Carlisle County, Kentucky
Bardwell
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42023
- Latitude: 36.8712° N
- Longitude: 89.0106° W
Location and History
Bardwell, the county seat of Carlisle County, is located in western Kentucky, near the Mississippi River. Established in 1874, Bardwell was named after the local Bardwell family who were prominent landowners in the area. Its location along the Illinois Central Railroad helped Bardwell grow as a trading center for the region’s agricultural products, particularly tobacco, corn, and soybeans. The town served as a hub for transporting these goods to larger markets. The Carlisle County Courthouse, built in the early 20th century, stands at the heart of Bardwell and symbolizes its role as the administrative center of the county. Though small, Bardwell has a rich history tied to Kentucky’s agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bardwell is served by the Carlisle County School District, with Carlisle County High School and Carlisle County Middle School located nearby. Major landmarks in the town include the historic Carlisle County Courthouse, a neoclassical structure that continues to serve as the center of government. Bardwell’s central square hosts local events and gatherings, fostering a close-knit community spirit. The nearby Mississippi River and the surrounding countryside offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. Bardwell’s agricultural roots and quiet, rural setting give the town its peaceful charm and make it a center of life in Carlisle County.
Arlington
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42021
- Latitude: 36.7895° N
- Longitude: 89.0073° W
Location and History
Arlington is a small town located in the southeastern part of Carlisle County, near the Ballard County line. Founded in the late 19th century, Arlington developed as a farming community, with its economy largely centered around agriculture. Like other towns in the region, Arlington benefited from its location near the railroad, which provided a means of transporting agricultural products like tobacco, corn, and soybeans to larger markets. Despite its small size, Arlington has retained its historical character and continues to serve as a local hub for nearby rural communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Arlington is also served by the Carlisle County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Bardwell. The town’s most notable landmark is the Arlington Baptist Church, which has been a central gathering place for the community since its establishment in the early 20th century. The surrounding farmland and rural landscapes define Arlington’s identity, offering picturesque views and a quiet, close-knit lifestyle. The town’s small size and proximity to the Mississippi River make it a peaceful destination for those seeking a rural way of life in Kentucky. Arlington’s annual community events and local markets further strengthen its sense of community.
Milburn
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 150 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42070
- Latitude: 36.7573° N
- Longitude: 88.9531° W
Location and History
Milburn is an unincorporated community located in the northern part of Carlisle County, nestled within the rural landscape of western Kentucky. Established in the 19th century, Milburn grew as a farming community, with agriculture forming the backbone of its economy. The town’s early settlers were primarily involved in raising livestock and cultivating crops, especially tobacco, which was a major cash crop in the region. Though small, Milburn has a long history of community involvement, and its residents have maintained the town’s agricultural traditions for generations.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Milburn is part of the Carlisle County School District, with students attending schools in Bardwell. The town’s key landmarks include Milburn Methodist Church, which has been a pillar of the community since its founding. The nearby Milburn Cemetery is another significant site, reflecting the town’s deep-rooted history and the generations of families who have lived in the area. The rolling farmland surrounding Milburn provides ample opportunities for farming and outdoor activities, making the town an ideal location for those interested in rural living. Despite its small size, Milburn’s sense of community and connection to the land remain strong.
Kirbyton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42023 (shares with Bardwell)
- Latitude: 36.7311° N
- Longitude: 88.9789° W
Location and History
Kirbyton is a tiny, unincorporated community located in central Carlisle County. Like many small towns in the region, Kirbyton’s history is tied to agriculture, with local farms playing a significant role in its early development. Settlers in the 19th century were attracted to the fertile land, which was ideal for growing tobacco, corn, and other crops. Although Kirbyton never grew into a large town, it remains a small rural settlement where farming and family traditions are central to the way of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kirbyton is served by the Carlisle County School District, with students traveling to nearby schools in Bardwell. The community is surrounded by picturesque farmland, and the small family farms that dot the landscape are key to its identity. While Kirbyton lacks major landmarks, its charm lies in its simplicity and the peaceful rural environment it offers. The nearby Mississippi River and surrounding woodlands provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, attracting residents who appreciate a quiet, nature-focused lifestyle. Kirbyton’s small size and close-knit community make it a unique and tranquil place in Carlisle County.
Cunningham
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 250 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42035
- Latitude: 36.8022° N
- Longitude: 88.9470° W
Location and History
Cunningham is an unincorporated community located in the eastern part of Carlisle County, close to the Ballard County border. Established in the 19th century, Cunningham developed as a small agricultural settlement, with its residents primarily involved in farming. The town was named after a prominent local family, and it has maintained its rural character throughout its history. While it has not experienced significant growth, Cunningham continues to be an active farming community, with agriculture playing a central role in its economy and culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cunningham is part of the Carlisle County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Bardwell. The town’s rural landscape is its most defining feature, with large tracts of farmland surrounding the community. Cunningham Baptist Church serves as a local landmark and a gathering place for the community. The town’s proximity to the Mississippi River and the wooded areas nearby makes it a great location for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. Cunningham’s peaceful atmosphere and agricultural roots offer a glimpse into the traditional rural lifestyle that has defined this part of Kentucky for generations.
