Cities and Towns in Claiborne County, Tennessee

Founded in 1801, Claiborne County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Claiborne County was formed from Grainger and Hawkins counties. The city of Tazewell is the county seat. With FIPS code of 25, Claiborne County has a population of 32,267 and area of 434 square miles (1,124 km²).

List of all cities in Claiborne County, TN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Arthur, TN	37707	423
Clairfield, TN	37715	423
Cumberland Gap, TN	37724	423
Eagan, TN	37730	423
Harrogate, TN	37707	423
	37752	423
Lone Mountain, TN	37773	423
New Tazewell, TN	37824	423
	37825	423
Pruden, TN	37851	423
Shawanee, TN	37867	423
Speedwell, TN	37870	423
Tazewell, TN	37879	423

Major Cities and Towns in Claiborne County, Tennessee

Tazewell

Overview

• Area: Approximately 4.4 square miles
• Population: 2,165 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37879
• Coordinates: 36.4540° N, 83.5688° W

Location and History

Tazewell, the county seat of Claiborne County, is centrally located within the county and boasts a rich history that dates back to its founding in 1801. Named after Henry Tazewell, a U.S. Senator from Virginia, the town was strategically positioned along the Wilderness Road, a historic route used by early settlers moving west. Tazewell quickly became a local hub for commerce and government. Over the years, Tazewell has maintained its historical charm, evident in its well-preserved downtown area and several historical buildings that date back to the 19th century.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tazewell is served by the Claiborne County School District, which includes Tazewell-New Tazewell Elementary, Soldiers Memorial Middle School, and Claiborne High School. Notable landmarks include the Old Claiborne County Jail, which now serves as a museum showcasing local history and culture. The town is also close to the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which offers extensive hiking trails, scenic vistas, and a glimpse into the area’s pioneer history. The annual Tazewell Old Timers Festival celebrates the town’s heritage with crafts, food, and music.

Harrogate

Overview

• Area: Approximately 7.6 square miles
• Population: 4,389 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37752
• Coordinates: 36.5803° N, 83.6502° W

Location and History

Harrogate is located near the Cumberland Gap and is historically significant as the gateway to the west for early American pioneers. Founded in the late 19th century and incorporated in 1993, Harrogate’s development was influenced by the establishment of Lincoln Memorial University in 1897, which was founded with the help of contributions from General O.O. Howard, a Civil War veteran and a founder of Howard University. The university’s presence has shaped Harrogate into a college town with a focus on education and cultural enrichment.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Harrogate’s primary educational institution is Lincoln Memorial University, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs and is a significant presence in the community. Other schools include Ellen Myers Elementary for younger students. A major landmark is the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum located on the university campus, which houses one of the most extensive Lincoln and Civil War collections in the United States. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is another significant landmark, offering historical insights, recreational activities, and stunning natural beauty.

New Tazewell

Overview

• Area: Approximately 5.4 square miles
• Population: 2,769 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37825
• Coordinates: 36.4412° N, 83.5998° W

Location and History

New Tazewell, north of Tazewell, was founded in the 19th century as the community around the area grew. Its development was spurred by the coal mining industry and the arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century, which opened up new economic opportunities for the region. Despite the decline of coal mining, New Tazewell has transitioned into a residential community with a focus on small businesses and local enterprises.

Major Schools and Landmarks

New Tazewell schools are part of the Claiborne County School District, including New Tazewell Elementary and Claiborne High School. The town is known for its annual New Tazewell Days Festival, which celebrates local culture with parades, music, and community events. Notable landmarks include the historic Graham-Kivett House, which provides a glimpse into the area’s early architectural styles. The nearby Norris Lake offers outdoor recreational opportunities like boating, fishing, and swimming, making it a popular destination for residents and tourists alike.

Cumberland Gap

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.9 square miles
• Population: 494 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37724
• Coordinates: 36.5975° N, 83.6683° W

Location and History

Cumberland Gap is a historic town located at the tri-state intersection of Tennessee, Kentucky, and Virginia. Founded in the early 18th century, it served as a key pass through the Appalachian Mountains and was a crucial part of the Wilderness Road. The town’s history is deeply intertwined with the westward expansion of the United States, serving as the “Gateway to the West” for early settlers and explorers.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cumberland Gap is mainly a residential community with students attending schools in nearby towns within the Claiborne County School District. Significant landmarks include the Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, which encompasses thousands of acres and offers extensive trails, historical exhibits, and programming to educate visitors about the region’s pivotal role in American history. The park’s Pinnacle Overlook provides breathtaking views of the gap and surrounding mountains, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.