Cities and Towns in Gallia County, Ohio

Founded in Apr 30, 1803, Gallia County is one of 88 counties in the state of Ohio. Historically, Gallia County was formed from Washington and Adams Counties. The city of Gallipolis is the county seat. With FIPS code of 53, Gallia County has a population of 29,158 and area of 468.78 square miles (1,214 km²).

List of all cities in Gallia County, OH alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bidwell, OH 45614 740
Cheshire, OH 45620 740
Crown City, OH 45623 740
Ewington, OH 45686 740
Gallipolis, OH 45631 740
Kerr, OH 45643 740
Northup, OH 45658 740
Patriot, OH 45658 740
Rio Grande, OH 45674 740
Rodney, OH 45631 740
Thurman, OH 45685 740
Vinton, OH 45686 740

Major Cities and Towns in Gallia County, Ohio

Gallipolis

Overview

  • Area: 3.83 square miles
  • Population: 3,313 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Code: 45631
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.8251° N, 82.2026° W

Location and History

Gallipolis, the county seat of Gallia County, is situated along the Ohio River in southeastern Ohio. Founded on October 17, 1790, by French immigrants known as the “French 500,” the village’s name combines “Galli-” (Latin for France) and “-polis” (Greek for city), reflecting its French heritage. These settlers were fleeing the turmoil of the French Revolution and initially faced challenges due to fraudulent land deals. Despite early hardships, Gallipolis developed into a thriving community, earning the nickname “City of the Gauls.”

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gallipolis is home to several educational institutions, including Gallia Academy High School and Gallia Academy Middle School, both part of the Gallipolis City Schools district. Notable landmarks include the Gallipolis City Park, located on the original settlement site, and the historic Mound Hill Cemetery, offering panoramic views of the Ohio River. The village also features the “Gallipolis in Lights” display during the holiday season, which has garnered national attention.

Rio Grande

Overview

  • Area: 1.39 square miles
  • Population: 724 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Code: 45674
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.8815° N, 82.3804° W

Location and History

Located in Raccoon Township, Rio Grande is a village in Gallia County. Established on July 6, 1874, the village was named to commemorate the Mexican–American War. Despite its name, pronounced “Rye-O Grand,” the village has a rich Welsh heritage, with many settlers arriving from Wales in the 19th century. This cultural influence is evident in the village’s flag, which mirrors the Flag of Wales.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rio Grande is renowned for housing the University of Rio Grande/Rio Grande Community College, a private not-for-profit institution offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The village is also the birthplace of the Bob Evans Restaurant chain, with the original Bob Evans Farm located here. The farm has become a tourist attraction, featuring the annual Bob Evans Farm Festival each October, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage.

Vinton

Overview

  • Area: 1.21 square miles
  • Population: 224 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Code: 45686
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.9817° N, 82.3432° W

Location and History

Vinton is a village located in Huntington Township, Gallia County. Platted in 1832, it has maintained a small, close-knit community atmosphere. A post office has been in operation in Vinton since 1834, serving as a central hub for the village’s residents. The village’s history is deeply rooted in the agricultural traditions of the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Public education in Vinton is provided by the Gallia County Local School District. While the village itself is small, it is surrounded by scenic landscapes and is located near Raccoon Creek, a tributary of the Ohio River, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciation of the natural environment.

Bidwell

Overview

  • Area: Data not specified
  • Population: Data not specified
  • ZIP Code: 45614
  • Latitude and Longitude: 38.9115° N, 82.2971° W

Location and History

Bidwell is an unincorporated community in northwestern Springfield Township, Gallia County. Founded in 1881 under the name Blaccock, it was later renamed Bidwell in honor of John Bidwell, the Prohibition Party’s presidential candidate in 1892. The community developed around the arrival of the railroad, which played a significant role in its early growth.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bidwell is home to River Valley High School and River Valley Middle School, both part of the Gallia County Local School District. The community features local businesses, including a hardware store and grocery store, serving as central points for residents. The area is characterized by its rural charm and proximity to natural landscapes, offering a peaceful environment for its inhabitants.