Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Arkansas

Founded on December 19, 1837, Franklin County is one of 75 counties in the state of Arkansas. Historically, Franklin County was formed from Crawford and Johnson counties. The city of Ozark, Charleston is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Franklin County has a population of 17,173 and area of 619.69 square miles (1,605 km²).

List of all cities in Franklin County, AR alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Alix, AR 72820 479
Altus, AR 72821 479
Branch, AR 72928 479
Cecil, AR 72930 479
Charleston, AR 72933 479
Ozark, AR 72949 479
Wiederkehr Village, AR 72821 479

Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Arkansas

Ozark

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 7.6 square miles
  • Population: 3,684 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 72949
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 35.4879° N
    • Longitude: 93.8272° W

Location and History

Ozark is the county seat of Franklin County, Arkansas, and is situated in the northwestern part of the state along the Arkansas River. The city was established in 1835 and named after the Ozark Mountains, which are nearby. Ozark’s location on the river made it an important site for trade and transportation during the 19th century, particularly for the timber and agricultural industries. The town’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, with cotton, soybeans, and livestock being the primary products. Today, Ozark is known for its scenic beauty, with the river and surrounding mountains offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city’s downtown area retains much of its historic charm, with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ozark is served by the Ozark School District, which includes Ozark High School, Ozark Junior High, and several elementary schools. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Franklin County Courthouse, a historic building located in the heart of downtown. The nearby Ozark National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Mulberry River, popular for canoeing and fishing, is also close to the town. The city’s annual Ozark Mountain Music Festival celebrates the area’s rich musical heritage, drawing visitors for a weekend of live performances and community activities.

Charleston

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 4.0 square miles
  • Population: 2,494 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 72933
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 35.2975° N
    • Longitude: 94.0383° W

Location and History

Charleston is a small town located in the southern part of Franklin County, Arkansas. The town was established in 1870 and named after the Charleston Land Company, which played a significant role in its early development. Charleston developed as an agricultural community, with cotton and livestock being the primary economic activities. The town is historically significant for being one of the first in Arkansas to voluntarily desegregate its schools in the 1950s, setting an example for other communities during the Civil Rights Movement. Charleston’s economy has diversified over the years, but it remains closely tied to its agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Charleston is served by the Charleston School District, which includes Charleston High School, Charleston Middle School, and Charleston Elementary School. The town is home to several local landmarks, including the Charleston Historic District, which features a collection of buildings that reflect the town’s rich history. The nearby Lake Charleston provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Charleston’s annual events, such as the Charleston Fall Festival, bring the community together to celebrate its heritage and foster a strong sense of local pride.

Altus

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.7 square miles
  • Population: 758 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 72821
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 35.4429° N
    • Longitude: 93.7513° W

Location and History

Altus is a small town located in the northern part of Franklin County, Arkansas, nestled in the Arkansas River Valley. The town was established in 1875 as a result of the construction of the Little Rock and Fort Smith Railroad, which made Altus a key stop along the line. Altus is best known for its role in the Arkansas wine industry, with several vineyards and wineries located in the area. The town’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly grape growing, and winemaking, making it a popular destination for tourists interested in wine and local history. Altus’s location in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains provides a scenic backdrop for its vineyards and historic sites.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Altus is part of the Ozark School District, with students attending schools in nearby Ozark. The town is home to several significant landmarks, including the Altus Heritage House Museum, which offers exhibits on the history of the town and its role in the Arkansas wine industry. The nearby St. Mary’s Catholic Church, built in the late 19th century, is another notable landmark, known for its beautiful architecture and historic significance. The town’s wineries, including Chateau Aux Arc, Mount Bethel Winery, and Post Familie Vineyards, offer tours and tastings, attracting visitors from across the state and beyond. Altus’s annual Grape Festival celebrates the town’s wine heritage with a weekend of food, music, and family-friendly activities.

Ozark Acres

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 2.0 square miles
  • Population: 506 (as of the last census)
  • ZIP Codes: 72949
  • Latitude and Longitude:
    • Latitude: 35.4422° N
    • Longitude: 93.7012° W

Location and History

Ozark Acres is a small, unincorporated community located in Franklin County, Arkansas. The community was developed in the mid-20th century as a residential area for those seeking a rural lifestyle with easy access to the natural beauty of the Ozark Mountains. Ozark Acres is not a traditional town with a central business district but rather a collection of homes and small farms spread out over several square miles. The area is known for its peaceful, country atmosphere and its proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities in the surrounding mountains and forests.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ozark Acres is part of the Ozark School District, with students attending schools in nearby Ozark. The community is close to several natural landmarks, including the Ozark National Forest and the Mulberry River, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. The area is popular with those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle with easy access to the outdoor amenities of the Ozark Mountains. The community’s annual events, such as neighborhood picnics and local craft fairs, bring residents together to celebrate their shared appreciation for the natural beauty and tranquility of the area.

Map of Cities in Franklin County, AR

Map of Cities in Franklin County, AR