Cities and Towns in Columbia County, Arkansas
Founded on December 17, 1852, Columbia County is one of 75 counties in the state of Arkansas. Historically, Columbia County was formed from Lafayette, Hempstead, and Ouachita counties. The city of Magnolia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 27, Columbia County has a population of 22,672 and area of 766.86 square miles (1,986 km²).
List of all cities in Columbia County, AR alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Emerson, AR | 71740 | 870 |
| Magnolia, AR | 71753 | 870 |
| 71754 | 870 | |
| Mc Neil, AR | 71752 | 870 |
| Taylor, AR | 71861 | 870 |
| Village, AR | 71753 | 870 |
| Waldo, AR | 71770 | 870 |
Major Cities and Towns in Columbia County, Arkansas
Magnolia
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 13.1 square miles
- Population: 11,577 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 71753, 71754
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 33.2676° N
- Longitude: 93.2394° W
Location and History
Magnolia is the county seat and largest city in Columbia County, Arkansas, located in the southwestern part of the state. The city was founded in 1853 and named after the magnolia tree, which is native to the area. Magnolia developed as a regional hub for agriculture, particularly cotton and timber, which were the mainstays of the local economy. The discovery of oil in the nearby Smackover Field in the 1920s brought significant growth and prosperity to the area, transforming Magnolia into a center for the oil industry. Today, Magnolia is known for its strong community spirit, vibrant downtown, and educational institutions, including Southern Arkansas University (SAU), which plays a significant role in the city’s cultural and economic life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Magnolia is served by the Magnolia School District, which includes Magnolia High School, Magnolia Junior High, and several elementary schools. The city is also home to Southern Arkansas University, a comprehensive regional university offering a wide range of academic programs. Key landmarks in Magnolia include the Columbia County Courthouse, a historic building located in the town square, and the SAU campus, which features the unique Greek Theatre. Magnolia is also famous for its annual Magnolia Blossom Festival and World Championship Steak Cook-off, events that draw visitors from across the region to enjoy food, music, and community activities.
Waldo
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: 1,372 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 71770
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 33.3534° N
- Longitude: 93.2938° W
Location and History
Waldo is a small town located in the northern part of Columbia County, Arkansas. The town was established in 1887 as a result of the expansion of the St. Louis, Iron Mountain, and Southern Railway, which made Waldo a significant railroad hub for the region. Named after a railroad executive, Waldo quickly grew as a center for agriculture and timber, with the railroad providing a vital link to larger markets. The town’s economy was historically tied to the timber industry, and Waldo was known for its sawmills and other wood-processing facilities. While the timber industry has declined, Waldo has retained its small-town charm and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waldo is part of the Magnolia School District, with students attending schools in nearby Magnolia. The town is home to several local landmarks, including the historic Waldo Railroad Depot, which now serves as a museum and community center, preserving the town’s rich railroad heritage. The nearby Lake Columbia provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Waldo’s annual events, such as the Waldo Fall Festival, bring the community together to celebrate its history and foster a strong sense of local pride.
Emerson
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: 368 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 71740
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 33.0959° N
- Longitude: 93.1940° W
Location and History
Emerson is a small town located in the southern part of Columbia County, Arkansas, near the Louisiana border. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after Reuben Emerson, an early settler and local landowner. Emerson developed as a farming community, with agriculture being the primary economic activity. The town’s proximity to the Louisiana state line and the arrival of the railroad helped to spur growth, making Emerson a local center for trade and services. Despite its small size, Emerson has a strong sense of community and a commitment to preserving its rural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Emerson is served by the Emerson-Taylor-Bradley School District, which includes Emerson High School, Emerson Elementary School, and Bradley High School. The town is home to several local landmarks, including the Emerson Baptist Church, which has been a central part of the community for over a century. The nearby Bodcaw Bayou and surrounding farmland offer opportunities for hunting, fishing, and other outdoor activities, reflecting Emerson’s connection to the natural environment. Emerson is best known for its annual PurpleHull Pea Festival and World Championship Rotary Tiller Race, which celebrate the town’s agricultural roots and bring together residents and visitors for a weekend of food, music, and family-friendly activities.
Taylor
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: 566 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 71861
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 33.0973° N
- Longitude: 93.4571° W
Location and History
Taylor is a small town located in the southwestern part of Columbia County, Arkansas, near the Arkansas-Louisiana border. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after the Taylor family, who were prominent landowners in the area. Taylor developed as a farming and timber community, with the arrival of the railroad providing a vital link to larger markets. The town’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, particularly cotton, and timber, with local sawmills and gins playing a key role in its growth. Today, Taylor remains a quiet, rural community with a strong connection to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Taylor is part of the Emerson-Taylor-Bradley School District, with students attending schools in nearby Emerson and Bradley. The town is home to several local landmarks, including the Taylor United Methodist Church, which has served the community for many years. The surrounding forests and farmland provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and hiking, making Taylor an ideal location for those who enjoy nature. The town’s annual events, such as the Taylor Fourth of July Celebration, bring residents together to celebrate the nation’s independence and foster a strong sense of community spirit.
Map of Cities in Columbia County, AR
