Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Indiana
Founded in Feb 1, 1811, Franklin County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Franklin County was formed from Clark County and Dearborn County. The city of Brookville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Franklin County has a population of 22,842 and area of 384 square miles (995 km²).
List of all cities in Franklin County, IN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Andersonville, IN | 47024 | 765 |
| Bath, IN | 47010 | 765 |
| Brookville, IN | 47012 | 765 |
| Buena Vista, IN | 47024 | 765 |
| Cedar Grove, IN | 47016 | 765 |
| Laurel, IN | 47024 | 765 |
| Metamora, IN | 47030 | 765 |
| New Trenton, IN | 47035 | 812 |
| Oldenburg, IN | 47036 | 812 |
| Saint Leon, IN | 47012 | 765 |
Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Indiana
Brookville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.54 square miles
- Population: 2,579 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47012
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.4234° N, 85.0124° W
Location and History
Brookville, the county seat of Franklin County, is located in southeastern Indiana along the East Fork of the Whitewater River. Situated about 70 miles southeast of Indianapolis and 45 miles northwest of Cincinnati, Brookville has historically been a key hub for commerce and transportation. Founded in 1808, the town quickly became known for its rich farmland and its strategic position on the river, which made it an essential trade route for early settlers. Brookville’s historical importance is highlighted by the fact that it was the home of two Indiana governors, James B. Ray and David Wallace, and many early political figures. The construction of the Brookville Dam in the 1960s created Brookville Lake, a major attraction for outdoor enthusiasts today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brookville is served by the Franklin County Community School Corporation, with Franklin County High School as the main educational institution. Brookville’s landmarks include the Brookville Lake, a large reservoir offering boating, fishing, camping, and hiking opportunities. The Franklin County Courthouse, built in 1851, is one of the county’s most iconic historical buildings, showcasing Greek Revival architecture. The Hermitage, a historic home once owned by artist J. Ottis Adams, is also a notable attraction. Visitors can also explore the nearby Mounds State Recreation Area and Whitewater Canal State Historic Site, which reflect the town’s connection to Indiana’s early transportation history.
Batesville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 6.16 square miles
- Population: 6,520 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47006
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.3001° N, 85.2219° W
Location and History
Batesville is a city that straddles the line between Franklin and Ripley counties, though much of its development lies in Franklin County. It is located about 50 miles southeast of Indianapolis and 60 miles northwest of Cincinnati, giving it access to major urban centers. Batesville was founded in the mid-19th century when the railroad reached the area, boosting the town’s growth as a manufacturing and agricultural hub. The town is historically known for its production of caskets, with Batesville Casket Company being one of the largest manufacturers in the country. Today, Batesville is a blend of historical charm and modern industry.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Batesville’s schools are part of the Batesville Community School Corporation, with Batesville High School serving as the major secondary institution. Major landmarks include Liberty Park, which hosts various community events, and the Hill-Rom Corporation, a major employer and manufacturer of hospital beds and medical equipment. The town is home to the Batesville Memorial Public Library and Brum Woods, a scenic nature area for hiking and outdoor activities. Each year, Batesville hosts the AppleFest, a popular local event celebrating the town’s agricultural roots with crafts, food, and entertainment. The Gibson Theatre, a restored 1920s movie theater, adds to the cultural atmosphere of this quaint town.
Laurel
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: 482 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47024
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.5001° N, 85.1872° W
Location and History
Laurel is a small town located in the northeastern part of Franklin County, near the confluence of the Little and Big Laurel Creeks. It lies about 12 miles north of Brookville and approximately 55 miles southeast of Indianapolis. Founded in the early 19th century, Laurel developed as a farming community, with the arrival of the Whitewater Canal in the mid-1800s providing a significant boost to its economy. This canal connected Laurel to other parts of Indiana, fostering trade and transportation. Despite its small size, Laurel played a role in the region’s agricultural development, and remnants of the canal can still be seen today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Laurel students attend schools in the Franklin County Community School Corporation, with Franklin County High School being the nearest secondary education institution. Notable landmarks in Laurel include the Whitewater Canal and Laurel Feeder Dam, which offer a glimpse into the town’s historical importance as a transportation hub. The town is also close to the Metamora Historic District, where visitors can experience preserved 19th-century canal structures and local crafts. Laurel’s natural surroundings, including the nearby Brookville Lake and Mounds State Recreation Area, provide ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping, making it a quiet yet scenic place to live.
Oldenburg
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.43 square miles
- Population: 674 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47036
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.3395° N, 85.2033° W
Location and History
Oldenburg, known as the “Village of Spires,” is a small town located in southeastern Franklin County, about 5 miles east of Batesville. Established in 1837 by German settlers, the town’s rich Catholic heritage is evident in its architecture, especially the numerous churches and religious institutions that dominate its skyline. Oldenburg’s development was heavily influenced by its German roots, and it has preserved much of its original character, with many of its buildings reflecting 19th-century German architecture. The town’s unique cultural heritage continues to attract visitors interested in its history and religious significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oldenburg Academy of the Immaculate Conception, a private Catholic high school, serves the town, reflecting its religious and educational traditions. St. Louis School in nearby Batesville also serves younger students. Key landmarks include the Church of the Holy Family, a striking Gothic Revival structure, and the Sisters of St. Francis convent, which is an important religious site in the region. Oldenburg’s downtown area, with its German-style architecture, offers a charming walk through history. Visitors can explore local shops, restaurants, and historical markers that tell the story of the town’s founding. Oldenburg also hosts various festivals celebrating its German and Catholic heritage throughout the year.
Metamora
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.28 square miles
- Population: 188 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47030
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.4478° N, 85.1339° W
Location and History
Metamora is a historic town located in the northeastern part of Franklin County, about 10 miles northeast of Brookville and 55 miles southeast of Indianapolis. Established in the 1830s, Metamora developed as a canal town along the Whitewater Canal, which was instrumental in transporting goods and people through the region. Today, Metamora is Indiana’s only functioning canal town, preserving much of its 19th-century charm and attracting visitors interested in history and outdoor activities. The canal, with its restored locks and a working grist mill, is a significant feature of the town, contributing to its status as a tourist destination.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Metamora students attend schools in the Franklin County Community School Corporation, with Franklin County High School serving the area. Metamora’s most famous landmarks include the Whitewater Canal and the Grist Mill, both of which are part of the Whitewater Canal State Historic Site. Visitors can ride on the canal boat, tour the mill, and explore the town’s numerous antique shops, restaurants, and museums. The annual Metamora Canal Days festival, held each fall, brings thousands of visitors to the town to celebrate its history with crafts, food, and entertainment. The nearby Morgan’s Raid Civil War marker highlights the town’s historical significance during the Civil War.
Mount Carmel
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Not incorporated
- Population: Approximately 100 (unofficial estimate)
- Zip Codes: 47012 (served by Brookville)
- Latitude and Longitude: 39.4159° N, 84.9760° W
Location and History
Mount Carmel is a small unincorporated community located in the southern part of Franklin County, near the Indiana-Ohio border. Positioned along the Whitewater River, the community is about 8 miles south of Brookville and 50 miles northwest of Cincinnati. Settled in the early 19th century, Mount Carmel developed as a small farming community. Its location along the river allowed early settlers to engage in agriculture and trade with nearby towns. Though it has never grown into a large town, Mount Carmel has maintained its rural character and close-knit community feel.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Carmel does not have its own school system, so students attend schools in Brookville, including Franklin County High School. Landmarks in Mount Carmel include historic farmhouses and churches that date back to the 19th century. The Whitewater River, which flows nearby, offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor recreational activities. Residents and visitors can also enjoy the scenic countryside, which is typical of the region’s rolling hills and farmland. Being close to Brookville and Brookville Lake, Mount Carmel provides easy access to additional recreational and historical sites, making it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle.
