Cities and Towns in Crittenden County, Kentucky
Founded in 1842, Crittenden County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Crittenden County was formed from Livingston County. The city of Marion is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, Crittenden County has a population of 8,947 and area of 362 square miles (938 km²).
List of all cities in Crittenden County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Crayne, KY | 42033 | 270 |
| Dycusburg, KY | 42037 | 270 |
| Frances, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Levias, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Marion, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Mattoon, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Mexico, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| New Salem, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Repton, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Sheridan, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Tolu, KY | 42084 | 270 |
| Tribune, KY | 42064 | 270 |
| Winslow Park, KY | 42064 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Crittenden County, Kentucky
Marion
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,900 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42064
- Latitude: 37.3328° N
- Longitude: 88.0814° W
Location and History
Marion, the county seat of Crittenden County, is located in western Kentucky near the Ohio River. Established in 1842 and named after Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion, the town quickly became a hub for agriculture and trade in the region. During the 19th century, Marion grew due to its proximity to mineral resources, particularly fluorspar, which was extensively mined in the area. Fluorspar mining brought economic growth and led to the development of industries such as glass manufacturing. Today, Marion is known for its historical roots and is the primary center for commerce and government in Crittenden County. The town has retained its small-town charm, with historic buildings and local businesses reflecting its past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marion is served by the Crittenden County School District, with Crittenden County High School, Crittenden County Middle School, and Marion Elementary School providing education to local students. The town’s major landmarks include the Crittenden County Courthouse, a historic structure that has been the center of local government since the 19th century. The Ben E. Clement Mineral Museum showcases the area’s rich history of mineral mining, featuring a collection of minerals and mining equipment. Additionally, Marion is known for the annual Crittenden County Pumpkin Festival, which brings the community together to celebrate the local harvest with food, entertainment, and crafts.
Tolu
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 80 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42084
- Latitude: 37.4456° N
- Longitude: 88.2403° W
Location and History
Tolu is a small, unincorporated community located in the northwestern part of Crittenden County, near the Ohio River. Originally established as a river port town in the 19th century, Tolu was once a thriving center for trade and transportation along the Ohio River. The town’s economy was heavily reliant on the river, with steamboats regularly stopping to transport goods such as tobacco, corn, and timber to larger markets. However, as railroads and highways became more prominent in the 20th century, Tolu’s importance as a river port diminished, leading to a decline in population. Today, Tolu remains a quiet riverside community with a strong connection to its past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tolu is part of the Crittenden County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Marion. A key landmark in the town is the historic Tolu Community Church, which has served as a gathering place for local residents for over a century. The nearby Ohio River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation, making Tolu a scenic spot for nature lovers. The town’s rural setting, combined with its rich history as a river port, gives it a unique character. Although small, Tolu’s location near the Ohio River and its peaceful atmosphere make it an attractive place for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Dycusburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 20 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42037
- Latitude: 37.1586° N
- Longitude: 88.1897° W
Location and History
Dycusburg is a small, unincorporated community located on the Cumberland River in southeastern Crittenden County. Founded in the early 1800s, Dycusburg was once a bustling river town, serving as a shipping and trading post along the Cumberland River. The town’s economy was historically tied to river traffic, with goods such as timber, tobacco, and coal being transported to larger markets. However, with the decline of river-based transportation and the rise of railroads and highways, Dycusburg’s population dwindled, and it is now a small, quiet community. Despite its decline, Dycusburg retains its historical charm, with remnants of its past still visible in the town’s layout and architecture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dycusburg is part of the Crittenden County School District, with students attending schools in Marion. The town’s most notable landmark is the Dycusburg Cemetery, which contains graves dating back to the 19th century and reflects the town’s long history. The Cumberland River remains a key feature of the area, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and scenic views. Although Dycusburg is now a small and largely residential community, its historical significance as a river town and its peaceful riverside setting continue to attract visitors and residents alike.
Shady Grove
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 250 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42444
- Latitude: 37.4187° N
- Longitude: 87.9781° W
Location and History
Shady Grove is a small, unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Crittenden County, near the border with Caldwell County. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a rural farming community, with agriculture being the mainstay of the local economy. Shady Grove developed slowly, maintaining its rural character throughout the years, with many families involved in farming crops such as corn, tobacco, and soybeans. The town’s name is believed to have originated from the large trees that provided shade to the early settlers’ homes and farms. Today, Shady Grove remains a quiet, close-knit community with a strong connection to its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shady Grove is part of the Crittenden County School District, with students attending schools in Marion. The Shady Grove Baptist Church is a key landmark in the community and has been a central gathering place for residents for over a century. The surrounding farmland and scenic rolling hills provide a peaceful and picturesque environment for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing. Shady Grove’s rural charm, combined with its strong sense of community, makes it an appealing place for those seeking a quiet, countryside lifestyle in western Kentucky.
Frances
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42064 (shares with Marion)
- Latitude: 37.3131° N
- Longitude: 88.1772° W
Location and History
Frances is a small, unincorporated community located in the southern part of Crittenden County. The town was established in the late 1800s and named after Frances Mott, a local resident who played a prominent role in its founding. Like many small towns in the region, Frances developed as a rural farming community, with agriculture forming the backbone of the local economy. The town has remained small throughout its history, with many families continuing to farm the land and maintain the community’s agricultural traditions. Frances is known for its quiet, rural setting and its strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Frances is served by the Crittenden County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Marion. The community’s main landmarks include local churches and family-owned farms, which have been passed down through generations. The surrounding countryside offers scenic views of farmland and forests, making Frances an ideal location for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing. The town’s rural atmosphere and close proximity to Marion provide residents with the benefits of a peaceful, country lifestyle while still having access to nearby services and amenities. Frances’ connection to its agricultural roots remains a defining feature of the community.
