Cities and Towns in Jefferson Davis County, Mississippi
Founded in 1906, Jefferson Davis County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Jefferson Davis County was formed from Covington and Lawrence Counties. The city of Prentiss is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Jefferson Davis County has a population of 11,134 and area of 408 square miles (1,057 km²).
List of all cities in Jefferson Davis County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bassfield, MS | 39421 | 601/769 |
| Carson, MS | 39427 | 601/769 |
| Lucas, MS | 39474 | 601/769 |
| Mount Carmel, MS | 39474 | 601/769 |
| Prentiss, MS | 39474 | 601/769 |
| Terrell, MS | 39474 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson Davis County, Mississippi
Prentiss
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 3.2 square miles
- Population: Around 1,000 (latest estimate)
- Zip Code: 39474
- Latitude: 31.5977° N
- Longitude: 89.8681° W
Location and History
Prentiss, the county seat of Jefferson Davis County, is situated in southwestern Mississippi along U.S. Highway 84. Founded in 1903, Prentiss was originally a railroad town and was named after Sargent Smith Prentiss, a well-known Mississippi congressman and orator. The town developed around agriculture, with cotton and timber being prominent industries, and its position along the railroad helped it flourish as a trade center for the region. Prentiss is also notable for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, with local leaders advocating for equality and justice. Today, Prentiss remains a small yet vibrant town, known for its historic charm and community pride.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Prentiss is served by the Jefferson Davis County School District, with Jefferson Davis County High School providing education for local students. Notable landmarks include the Jefferson Davis County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as a symbol of the town’s heritage, and the Prentiss Institute, one of the first schools for African American students in the area, founded in 1907. Prentiss is also known for its proximity to the Longleaf Trace, a scenic 41-mile trail that attracts hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Each year, the town hosts the Prentiss Community Day, celebrating local culture and bringing together residents for food, music, and family-friendly activities. Prentiss’s combination of history, community, and access to natural beauty make it a central part of Jefferson Davis County.
Bassfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 2.1 square miles
- Population: Around 200 (latest estimate)
- Zip Code: 39421
- Latitude: 31.5002° N
- Longitude: 89.7467° W
Location and History
Bassfield is a small town located southeast of Prentiss in Jefferson Davis County. Founded in the late 1800s, Bassfield was named after a prominent local family. The town developed as an agricultural community, with cotton farming and timber playing significant roles in its early economy. Over time, Bassfield became known for its strong high school football tradition, with the local team earning state championships and creating a strong sense of community pride. Despite its small size, Bassfield has maintained a close-knit atmosphere, with many families having deep roots in the town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bassfield is part of the Jefferson Davis County School District, with Jefferson Davis County High School serving students from the town and surrounding areas. Landmarks include the historic Bassfield Cemetery, where many early settlers are buried, and local churches that are central to community life. Each fall, Bassfield hosts a homecoming parade that celebrates the town’s strong school spirit and local traditions. The nearby Leaf River provides fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities, enhancing Bassfield’s rural charm. Known for its sports legacy and friendly community, Bassfield is a valued part of Jefferson Davis County’s heritage.
Carson (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.0 square mile (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 100 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39427
- Latitude: 31.5358° N
- Longitude: 89.8304° W
Location and History
Carson is an unincorporated community located west of Bassfield in Jefferson Davis County. Established as a small agricultural settlement, Carson grew as a result of the local timber and farming industries. While it has always been a small, rural community, Carson’s residents have maintained a strong connection to the land and to each other. The community is known for its quiet, peaceful setting and scenic farmland. Carson has retained its rural character over the years, with agriculture continuing to be a central aspect of life in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carson is part of the Jefferson Davis County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Prentiss and Bassfield. Landmarks in the area include several historic churches that have served the community for generations, as well as surrounding farmland that reflects the town’s agricultural heritage. Carson’s residents often participate in county-wide events in Prentiss and Bassfield, which strengthen community ties. The nearby Longleaf Trace provides opportunities for hiking and biking, adding a recreational element to Carson’s rural lifestyle. Known for its pastoral beauty and strong community bonds, Carson offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle within Jefferson Davis County.
Oak Vale (Unincorporated Community, Partially in Jefferson Davis County)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Around 150 (estimate, partially in Lawrence County)
- Zip Code: 39656
- Latitude: 31.5233° N
- Longitude: 89.9059° W
Location and History
Oak Vale is a small, unincorporated community located partially in Jefferson Davis County, with portions extending into Lawrence County. Established as a farming community in the 19th century, Oak Vale’s economy was initially based on cotton and livestock farming. The town’s rural setting and close proximity to natural resources have allowed it to retain its agricultural roots over the years. Oak Vale’s landscape is dotted with fields, pastures, and family-owned farms that have been passed down through generations. Although small, the community has a strong sense of local pride and a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oak Vale is served by the Jefferson Davis County School District, with students typically attending schools in Prentiss. Landmarks include Oak Vale Baptist Church, which serves as a focal point for local gatherings and community events. The surrounding farmland and forests offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing, and the nearby Longleaf Trace provides access to hiking and biking trails. Oak Vale’s residents participate in annual festivals and gatherings in neighboring communities, reflecting the area’s tradition of strong community bonds. The town’s rural charm and natural surroundings make Oak Vale a peaceful and scenic part of Jefferson Davis County.
Clem (Unincorporated Community)
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.0 square mile (unincorporated community estimate)
- Population: Fewer than 100 (estimate)
- Zip Code: 39474 (shared with Prentiss)
- Latitude: 31.6054° N
- Longitude: 89.7973° W
Location and History
Clem is an unincorporated community situated near Prentiss in Jefferson Davis County. Established as a small agricultural settlement, Clem has remained a quiet rural community over the years. The area is primarily known for its farmlands, where crops like corn and soybeans are cultivated. Clem’s small population and rural setting contribute to its peaceful environment, and the residents enjoy a close-knit community lifestyle. Many families in Clem have lived in the area for generations, adding to the strong local connections that characterize the town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clem is part of the Jefferson Davis County School District, with students attending schools in Prentiss. Landmarks include local farms that showcase the community’s agricultural lifestyle, as well as small churches that serve as gathering places for residents. Clem is close to the Longleaf Trace, where locals can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The community is known for participating in the events held in Prentiss, strengthening ties with neighboring towns. Clem’s rural beauty and tradition of agriculture make it a quintessential small-town community within Jefferson Davis County.
