Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Mississippi
Founded in 1799, Jefferson County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Jefferson County was one of two original Counties (formerly Pickering). The city of Fayette is the county seat. With FIPS code of 63, Jefferson County has a population of 7,205 and area of 519 square miles (1,344 km²).
List of all cities in Jefferson County, MS alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Alcorn State University, MS | 39096 | 601/769 |
Fayette, MS | 39069 | 601/769 |
Fayette, MS | 39081 | 601/769 |
Harriston, MS | 39081 | 601/769 |
Lorman, MS | 39096 | 601/769 |
Union Church, MS | 39668 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Mississippi
Fayette
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles
- Population: Around 1,500 (latest estimate)
- Zip Code: 39069
- Latitude: 31.7129° N
- Longitude: 91.0610° W
Location and History
Fayette, the county seat of Jefferson County, is located in southwestern Mississippi along U.S. Highway 61. Founded in 1826, Fayette developed as a regional center for trade and agriculture, primarily supported by cotton plantations in the surrounding area. Named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a French hero of the American Revolutionary War, Fayette has a rich history, particularly tied to Mississippi’s antebellum and Civil Rights eras. The town’s role in the Civil Rights Movement was significant, with local leaders advocating for voter rights and racial equality. Today, Fayette remains a small but culturally important town, reflecting the resilience and heritage of its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fayette is part of the Jefferson County School District, with Jefferson County High School serving local students. Key landmarks include the Jefferson County Courthouse, an important site for local government and historic events, and several antebellum homes that provide a glimpse into the town’s past. The annual Black History Parade in Fayette celebrates African American culture and history, drawing residents and visitors alike. The nearby Natchez Trace Parkway and Mississippi River provide recreational opportunities, making Fayette a unique blend of history, community, and natural beauty.
Lorman
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.0 square mile (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 300 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39096
- Latitude: 31.8266° N
- Longitude: 91.0520° W
Location and History
Lorman is an unincorporated community in Jefferson County, best known as the home of Alcorn State University, Mississippi’s oldest historically Black university, founded in 1871. Named after the Lorman family, early settlers in the area, the community developed around agriculture and education. The presence of Alcorn State University has made Lorman a center for education and culture in Jefferson County, with the university’s programs and events enriching the local community. The area’s rural charm and connection to the Natchez Trace Parkway also make it a scenic and historically significant spot in southwestern Mississippi.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alcorn State University is the most notable educational institution in Lorman, offering a range of academic programs and serving as a cultural hub for the community. Key landmarks include the Alcorn State University Historic District, which features beautiful campus architecture and historical sites, and Windsor Ruins, the remnants of an antebellum mansion that attract visitors with its haunting beauty. The Natchez Trace Parkway runs nearby, providing access to trails and historic sites. Each year, Alcorn State hosts events that bring students and community members together, showcasing Lorman’s strong ties to education and history.
Union Church
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 200 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39668
- Latitude: 31.6684° N
- Longitude: 90.8123° W
Location and History
Union Church is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Jefferson County. Established in the early 19th century, Union Church developed as a farming and religious community, taking its name from the local church that served as a central gathering place for settlers. Agriculture, particularly cotton farming, formed the backbone of the community’s economy. Union Church is known for its peaceful, rural atmosphere, with rolling farmlands and historic churches that reflect its heritage. Many of the families in Union Church have lived in the area for generations, creating a close-knit community with strong local traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Union Church is served by the Jefferson County School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Fayette. Landmarks include the Union Church Presbyterian Church, established in the 1850s, which is one of the oldest churches in the area and a symbol of the community’s history. The nearby Homochitto National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and hunting, offering residents and visitors a natural retreat. Annual church gatherings and local festivals in Union Church strengthen community bonds and celebrate its rural heritage. The area’s scenic landscapes and historic sites make Union Church a cherished part of Jefferson County.
Harriston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 150 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39069 (shared with Fayette)
- Latitude: 31.7096° N
- Longitude: 91.0253° W
Location and History
Harriston is a small, unincorporated community located near Fayette in Jefferson County. Established in the 1800s as a farming settlement, Harriston developed around agriculture, with cotton and corn being primary crops. Like other Delta communities, Harriston has a rich history connected to the region’s agricultural economy. The town saw shifts in demographics and economic challenges over time, particularly with the mechanization of farming, but it has retained a close-knit and resilient community. Harriston’s rural charm and proximity to Fayette give it a quiet, welcoming character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harriston is part of the Jefferson County School District, with local students typically attending schools in nearby Fayette. Key landmarks include the local churches, which serve as community hubs and play a central role in residents’ lives. The community is close to the Natchez Trace Parkway, providing easy access to scenic drives, hiking trails, and historical markers. Community gatherings and church events bring Harriston’s residents together, fostering a sense of unity and tradition. With its strong agricultural roots and close community bonds, Harriston exemplifies the peaceful rural lifestyle of Jefferson County.