Cities and Towns in Hancock County, Tennessee

Founded in 1844, Hancock County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Hancock County was formed from Hawkins and Claiborne counties. The city of Sneedville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 67, Hancock County has a population of 6,787 and area of 222 square miles (575 km²).

List of all cities in Hancock County, TN alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Kyles Ford, TN 37765 423
Sneedville, TN 37869 423

Major Cities and Towns in Hancock County, Tennessee

Sneedville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 2.3 square miles
  • Population: 1,282 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Codes: 37869
  • Coordinates: 36.5295° N, 83.2177° W

Location and History

Sneedville, the county seat of Hancock County, is located in the northeastern corner of Tennessee, nestled in the Clinch River Valley. The town was established in 1850 and named after William Henry Sneed, a Knoxville attorney and legislator who played a key role in the town’s development. Sneedville grew as a small agricultural hub, with tobacco as its primary crop. The rugged terrain of the surrounding Clinch and Powell Mountain ranges has preserved the region’s rural character and cultural heritage. Sneedville is also the heart of the Melungeon culture, a unique ethnic group with a mix of European, Native American, and African ancestry.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sneedville Elementary School and Hancock County High School serve the educational needs of the community. Landmarks include the historic Hancock County Courthouse, built in 1931, which serves as a symbol of the town’s governance and history. The scenic Clinch River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and outdoor recreation, drawing visitors to the area. The town celebrates its heritage with events like the annual Hancock County Fall Festival, which highlights local crafts, music, and food. Nearby, the Vardy Community Historical Society preserves the history of the Melungeon people and their contributions to the region.