Cities and Towns in Grant County, Indiana
Founded on Feb 10, 1831, Grant County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Grant County was formed from Madison County, Adams New Purchase and un-organized. The city of Marion is the county seat. With FIPS code of 53, Grant County has a population of 66,263 and area of 414 square miles (1,072 km²).
List of all cities in Grant County, IN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Fairmount, IN | 46928 | 765 |
Fowlerton, IN | 46930 | 765 |
Gas City, IN | 46933 | 765 |
Jonesboro, IN | 46938 | 765 |
Landess, IN | 46991 | 765 |
Marion, IN | 46952 | 765 |
Marion, IN | 46953 | 765 |
Matthews, IN | 46957 | 765 |
Sims, IN | 46986 | 765 |
Swayzee, IN | 46986 | 765 |
Sweetser, IN | 46987 | 765 |
Upland, IN | 46989 | 765 |
Van Buren, IN | 46991 | 765 |
Major Cities and Towns in Grant County, Indiana
Marion
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 15.79 square miles
- Population: 28,310 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46952, 46953
- Latitude and Longitude: 40.5584° N, 85.6591° W
Location and History
Marion, the county seat and largest city in Grant County, is located in north-central Indiana, approximately 45 miles southwest of Fort Wayne and 65 miles northeast of Indianapolis. The city was founded in 1831 and named after Francis Marion, a general from the American Revolutionary War. Marion grew rapidly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as it became a manufacturing center, notably in the automobile and glass industries. The city’s industrial boom was largely driven by the discovery of natural gas in the region. Marion’s growth continued throughout the 20th century, with the establishment of Indiana Wesleyan University and the expansion of healthcare and education sectors in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marion is home to Indiana Wesleyan University, a private Christian university with a significant presence in the region. Marion High School serves as the major public secondary education institution. Notable landmarks include the Marion National Cemetery, which honors veterans and is a key historical site. The Quilters Hall of Fame, housed in the historic Marie Webster House, celebrates quilting history and art. Matter Park, one of the largest parks in the city, offers a variety of recreational facilities, including gardens, playgrounds, and walking trails. Additionally, the Mississinewa Riverwalk provides scenic riverfront views and a link to Marion’s historical and cultural sites.
Gas City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.56 square miles
- Population: 5,965 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46933
- Latitude and Longitude: 40.4870° N, 85.6119° W
Location and History
Gas City is located in the southwestern part of Grant County, about 6 miles southwest of Marion. The town was originally known as Harrisburg but was renamed Gas City in 1892 following the discovery of natural gas in the region, which led to rapid growth and industrial development. During the Indiana Gas Boom of the late 19th century, the town experienced an economic surge, attracting factories and businesses eager to capitalize on the abundant natural gas supply. However, once the gas supply dwindled, Gas City shifted its focus to manufacturing and agriculture, remaining an important part of Grant County’s economic landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gas City is served by the Mississinewa Community School Corporation, with Mississinewa High School being the primary secondary education institution. Key landmarks in Gas City include the Gas City Park, which hosts a range of community events and recreational activities. The park is also home to the Gas City Concert Series, which features live music during the summer months. Another notable landmark is the Gas City Museum, which provides a glimpse into the town’s rich history during the gas boom era. The annual Ducktail Run Rod and Custom Car Show, one of the region’s largest classic car events, draws visitors from across the state.
Upland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.15 square miles
- Population: 3,845 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46989
- Latitude and Longitude: 40.4695° N, 85.4964° W
Location and History
Upland is a small town located in the southeastern part of Grant County, approximately 10 miles east of Marion. Founded in 1867, Upland’s growth was closely tied to the arrival of the railroad, which facilitated trade and transportation. The town’s economy has historically centered around agriculture, though it gained national recognition when Taylor University relocated to Upland in 1893. Taylor University, a private Christian liberal arts college, has since become the town’s largest employer and a driving force behind its cultural and educational development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Upland is part of the Eastbrook Community School Corporation, with Eastbrook High School serving the local student population. The most notable landmark in Upland is Taylor University, which attracts students from across the country and offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Upland’s community parks, such as the Upland Memorial Park, provide recreational facilities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Ivanhoe’s Drive-In, a local eatery famous for its extensive menu of ice cream flavors, is a beloved landmark and popular destination for both locals and visitors. The town also hosts the Upland Labor Day Festival, which features parades, games, and live music.
Fairmount
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.58 square miles
- Population: 2,603 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46928
- Latitude and Longitude: 40.4156° N, 85.6491° W
Location and History
Fairmount is located in the southwestern part of Grant County, about 10 miles south of Marion. The town was founded in 1850 and is best known as the boyhood home of actor James Dean and the birthplace of cartoonist Jim Davis, the creator of “Garfield.” Fairmount grew as an agricultural community, with its economy based largely on farming and small manufacturing. The town’s connection to James Dean has made it a destination for fans of the iconic actor, especially during the annual Fairmount James Dean Festival, which celebrates his life and legacy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fairmount is part of the Madison-Grant United School Corporation, with Madison-Grant Junior-Senior High School serving local students. Major landmarks in the town include the James Dean Gallery, which houses memorabilia and exhibits dedicated to the actor. The Fairmount Historical Museum also highlights the town’s history, with a section dedicated to both James Dean and Jim Davis. Playacres Park is the town’s primary recreational area, offering playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic facilities. Fairmount’s annual James Dean Festival, held in September, attracts visitors from around the world for a weekend of classic cars, live music, and film screenings celebrating the local legend.
Jonesboro
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.67 square miles
- Population: 1,629 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46938
- Latitude and Longitude: 40.4794° N, 85.6275° W
Location and History
Jonesboro is a small town located on the southern border of Grant County, directly adjacent to Gas City. Established in 1837, Jonesboro developed as an agricultural and industrial town, with its location along the Mississinewa River contributing to its early growth. During the Indiana Gas Boom, Jonesboro experienced a surge in economic activity as natural gas attracted businesses and industries to the area. The town’s proximity to Gas City and Marion has helped it maintain a close connection to larger economic centers in Grant County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jonesboro shares the Mississinewa Community School Corporation with Gas City, and local students attend Mississinewa High School. The town’s major landmarks include Jonesboro Riverwalk Park, which offers walking paths along the Mississinewa River, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds. The town’s historical district features several well-preserved 19th-century homes and buildings that reflect its rich history. Each year, Jonesboro hosts the Mississinewa 1812 Festival, a reenactment of the Battle of Mississinewa, which draws history enthusiasts from across the region to celebrate and learn about local and national history.
Swayzee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.59 square miles
- Population: 906 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46986
- Latitude and Longitude: 40.5089° N, 85.8258° W
Location and History
Swayzee is a small town located in the western part of Grant County, approximately 8 miles southwest of Marion. Founded in the 1850s, the town developed as an agricultural community and grew steadily with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. Swayzee is perhaps best known for its claim of being the “Only Swayzee in the World,” which has become a point of pride for residents. The town remains a quiet, rural community with a strong emphasis on agriculture and local business.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Swayzee is part of the Oak Hill United School Corporation, with Oak Hill High School serving the local population. Key landmarks in the town include the Swayzee Historical Museum, which offers a glimpse into the town’s history through exhibits and artifacts. The town park is a focal point for community gatherings and recreational activities, featuring playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Each summer, the Swayzee Antique Tractor Show draws visitors from across the state to admire vintage farm equipment and celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage. The town’s close-knit atmosphere and rural charm make it a peaceful place to live and visit.