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Cities and Towns in Franklin City County, Virginia

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Founded in 1961, Franklin is one of 38 independent cities in the state of Virginia. Historically, Franklin was formed from Southampton County. With FIPS code of 620, Franklin has a population of 8,217 and area of 8 square miles (21 km²).

List of all cities in Franklin City County, VA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Franklin, VA 23851 757

Franklin

Location and History

Franklin is an independent city located in the southeastern region of Virginia, along the banks of the Blackwater River. Established in the 1830s, Franklin began as a small railroad stop on the Portsmouth and Roanoke Railroad. The city experienced significant growth due to its strategic location for transportation and its thriving lumber industry, particularly with the establishment of the Camp Manufacturing Company in the late 19th century, which later became Union Camp Corporation. Franklin has a rich history tied to the lumber and paper industries and has shown resilience by rebuilding and revitalizing itself after significant flooding from Hurricane Floyd in 1999.

  • Area: Approximately 8.3 square miles
  • Population: Around 8,400 residents (as of 2020)
  • Zip Code: 23851
  • Latitude and Longitude: 36.6770° N, 76.9306° W

Major Schools and Landmarks

Franklin is served by the Franklin City Public Schools system, which includes Franklin High School, Joseph P. King Jr. Middle School, and S.P. Morton Elementary School. The city is also home to a campus of Paul D. Camp Community College, providing higher education and workforce training opportunities to residents.

Notable landmarks in Franklin include the Downtown Franklin Historic District, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and preserved buildings that reflect the city’s heritage. The Blackwater River offers recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and scenic walks along the riverfront. The Rawls Museum Arts showcases local art and cultural exhibits, contributing to the city’s vibrant arts scene. Barrett’s Landing Park serves as a communal space for events and leisure, hosting annual festivities like the Franklin Fall Festival and the Blackwater River Fest, which foster community spirit and celebrate local culture.

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