Cities and Towns in Gibson County, Indiana
Founded on Apr 1, 1813, Gibson County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Gibson County was formed from Knox County. The city of Princeton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 51, Gibson County has a population of 32,924 and area of 487 square miles (1,261 km²).
List of all cities in Gibson County, IN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Buckskin, IN | 47647 | 812 |
| Fort Branch, IN | 47648 | 812 |
| Francisco, IN | 47649 | 812 |
| Haubstadt, IN | 47639 | 812 |
| Hazleton, IN | 47640 | 812 |
| Mackey, IN | 47654 | 812 |
| Oakland City, IN | 47660 | 812 |
| Owensville, IN | 47665 | 812 |
| Patoka, IN | 47666 | 812 |
| Princeton, IN | 47670 | 812 |
| Somerville, IN | 47683 | 812 |
| Warrenton, IN | 47639 | 812 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gibson County, Indiana
Princeton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 5.07 square miles
- Population: 8,746 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47670
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3542° N, 87.5675° W
Location and History
Princeton, the county seat of Gibson County, is located in southwestern Indiana, approximately 25 miles north of Evansville. It was founded in 1814 and named after Princeton, New Jersey. The city developed rapidly in the 19th century due to its strategic location on key transportation routes, including railroads and highways. Princeton is well-known for being home to a major Toyota manufacturing plant, which significantly boosted the local economy when it was established in 1996. This plant remains one of the largest employers in the region, making Princeton a hub for automotive manufacturing in the Midwest.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Princeton is served by the North Gibson School Corporation, with Princeton Community High School being the major secondary education institution. Major landmarks in Princeton include the Gibson County Courthouse, a beautiful example of Romanesque Revival architecture built in 1884, and the historic Princeton Theater, which offers live performances and community events. The Toyota Visitors Center, located at the Toyota plant, showcases the history and development of automotive manufacturing in the region. The Bicentennial Plaza and Lafayette Park are popular recreational spots for residents, offering playgrounds, sports facilities, and green spaces for outdoor activities.
Oakland City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.49 square miles
- Population: 2,429 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47660
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3398° N, 87.3458° W
Location and History
Oakland City is located in the eastern part of Gibson County, about 20 miles northeast of Princeton and 35 miles north of Evansville. It was founded in 1856 and named for the large oak trees that originally covered the area. Oakland City grew primarily as an agricultural center, with farming and small businesses forming the backbone of its economy. The establishment of Oakland City University in 1885 further enhanced its significance, drawing students and academics to the town. The university, founded by General Baptists, remains a major influence in the town’s identity and economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oakland City is served by the East Gibson School Corporation, with Oakland City Elementary School and Wood Memorial High School providing primary and secondary education. Oakland City University is the town’s most prominent institution, offering undergraduate and graduate programs in a variety of disciplines. Key landmarks include the historic Tichenor College Building, which is part of the Oakland City University campus. Wirth Park is a popular spot for community events, featuring sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The annual Oakland City Sweet Corn Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage, drawing visitors from across the region.
Fort Branch
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.11 square miles
- Population: 2,813 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47648
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.2509° N, 87.5765° W
Location and History
Fort Branch is located in the southern part of Gibson County, approximately 10 miles south of Princeton and 20 miles north of Evansville. The town was established in the mid-19th century and named after a military fort built during the Black Hawk War. Fort Branch developed as a small railroad town, with agriculture and coal mining serving as key industries. Its proximity to Evansville has made it a bedroom community for those commuting to the larger city for work, while still maintaining a small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort Branch is part of the South Gibson School Corporation, with Fort Branch Community School and Gibson Southern High School serving local students. Notable landmarks include Fort Branch Community Park, which features sports fields, playgrounds, and walking trails. Another prominent feature is the Fort Branch Library, which offers educational resources and community programs. Fort Branch also has a strong connection to its coal mining heritage, and the nearby Gibson County Coal Mine is one of the region’s significant employers. The town hosts various annual events, including a Fourth of July celebration and a community festival, bringing residents together.
Haubstadt
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.71 square miles
- Population: 1,577 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47639
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.2028° N, 87.5721° W
Location and History
Haubstadt is a small town located in southern Gibson County, just 15 miles north of Evansville. It was founded in 1855 by German immigrants, and its German heritage is still evident in the town’s culture and architecture. Originally a farming community, Haubstadt grew steadily with the arrival of the railroad and has since developed into a quiet, family-friendly town. It is known for its community spirit and its annual celebrations, such as the Sommerfest, which celebrates its German roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Haubstadt is served by the South Gibson School Corporation, with Haubstadt Community School providing education for elementary and middle school students, and Gibson Southern High School for high school students. Notable landmarks include the Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church, a historic church that serves as a focal point for the community. The Haubstadt Sommerfest, held every summer, is a major event that features German food, music, and activities. Haubstadt Town Park offers recreational facilities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and a picnic area, making it a popular spot for families. The town’s proximity to Evansville provides easy access to additional cultural and recreational opportunities.
Owensville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.71 square miles
- Population: 1,284 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47665
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.2697° N, 87.6906° W
Location and History
Owensville is located in the western part of Gibson County, about 12 miles west of Princeton and 30 miles northwest of Evansville. The town was established in 1817 and named after early settler Phillip Owens. Owensville grew primarily as an agricultural community, with its location near the Wabash River supporting farming and trade. While agriculture remains important, Owensville has diversified its local economy in recent years, with small businesses and light industry playing a role in the town’s development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Owensville is part of the South Gibson School Corporation, with Owensville Community School serving local students in grades K-8 and Gibson Southern High School for higher grades. Major landmarks in Owensville include the historic Owensville Carnegie Library, which has been a center of learning since the early 1900s. The town is also home to the Owensville Town Park, which features sports facilities, playgrounds, and a community center. Owensville hosts an annual Watermelon Festival that draws visitors from around the region to celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage with food, entertainment, and family activities. The nearby Wabash River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation.
Francisco
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.48 square miles
- Population: 469 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47649
- Latitude and Longitude: 38.3337° N, 87.4539° W
Location and History
Francisco is a small town located in the eastern part of Gibson County, about 15 miles east of Princeton and 25 miles north of Evansville. Established in 1851, the town was named after its founder, Jonathan Francisco. Francisco began as an agricultural community, but its growth was influenced by the coal mining industry, which became a significant part of the local economy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Although Francisco remains a small, rural town, its historical ties to coal mining and agriculture are still evident today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Francisco is served by the East Gibson School Corporation, with Francisco Elementary School and Wood Memorial High School providing education for local students. Key landmarks in Francisco include Francisco Town Park, a small park that serves as a gathering spot for community events and outdoor activities. The town also features several historic homes and buildings that reflect its 19th-century roots. Francisco’s proximity to the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of southern Indiana. The town hosts an annual community festival, bringing residents together to celebrate their small-town pride.
