Cities and Towns in Kemper County, Mississippi

Founded in 1833, Kemper County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Kemper County was formed from Lowndes, Rankin and Wayne Counties. The city of De Kalb is the county seat. With FIPS code of 69, Kemper County has a population of 8,829 and area of 766 square miles (1,984 km²).

List of all cities in Kemper County, MS alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
De Kalb, MS 39328 601/769
Electric Mills, MS 39358 662
Porterville, MS 39352 662
Preston, MS 39354 601/769
Scooba, MS 39358 662

Major Cities and Towns in Kemper County, Mississippi


De Kalb

Overview

  • Area: 4.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,100
  • Zip Codes: 39328
  • Latitude and Longitude: 32.7685° N, 88.6523° W

Location and History

De Kalb, the county seat of Kemper County, is a small town located in east-central Mississippi, near the Alabama border. Named after Baron Johann de Kalb, a German-born hero of the American Revolutionary War, De Kalb has a rich history that reflects Mississippi’s early settlement period. Established in the early 1800s, the town grew as an agricultural hub and, later, as a center for local governance. De Kalb is surrounded by pine forests, which contributed to its early economy, and remains a central point for agriculture and forestry in the region. The town preserves its historic buildings and Southern charm, making it a symbol of Kemper County’s heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

De Kalb is home to Kemper County High School, the primary secondary institution serving the town’s youth, and East Mississippi Community College’s Scooba campus is nearby, offering higher education options. Important landmarks in De Kalb include the Kemper County Courthouse, a historic building serving as the county’s center of governance, and the local Confederate cemetery, which highlights the town’s Civil War history. The town is also close to the Kemper County Energy Facility, a modern natural gas plant, representing both the town’s traditional and modern economic influences.


Scooba

Overview

  • Area: 1.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 730
  • Zip Codes: 39358
  • Latitude and Longitude: 32.8221° N, 88.4775° W

Location and History

Scooba, situated near the northern edge of Kemper County, close to the Mississippi-Alabama state line, is a small town with a rich history tied to education and community development. Founded in the mid-19th century, Scooba became notable as the location of East Mississippi Community College (EMCC), one of the state’s oldest community colleges, established in 1927. Historically, the town served as a trade center for the surrounding rural areas, with the railroad helping to boost local commerce. Today, Scooba continues to thrive on its educational institutions and maintains a quiet, small-town atmosphere while supporting students and faculty from around the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Scooba is best known for East Mississippi Community College, a prominent institution offering various academic and athletic programs, including a nationally recognized football team. The college serves as a cultural and educational landmark in the community. Additionally, Scooba has several historic churches and community buildings that add to its small-town charm. The nearby Owl Creek Mounds, ancient Native American earthworks, are also significant landmarks, providing insight into the region’s indigenous history and making Scooba a point of historical interest in Kemper County.


Porterville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 3.0 square miles (data may vary as Porterville is an unincorporated community)
  • Population: Approximately 250 (unincorporated, with rural surroundings)
  • Zip Codes: 39352
  • Latitude and Longitude: 32.6365° N, 88.4755° W

Location and History

Porterville is a small unincorporated community located in southwestern Kemper County. While not officially incorporated as a town, Porterville has a rich rural history, primarily focused on farming and local craftsmanship. Established in the 19th century, Porterville’s development was supported by nearby railway lines, which connected the rural community to larger markets. The town’s name is thought to come from an early settler or merchant, and it has retained its identity as an agricultural community. Over the years, Porterville has become known for its peaceful surroundings and is largely inhabited by families involved in farming and related trades.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Since Porterville is unincorporated, residents often attend schools in nearby De Kalb, including Kemper County High School, or East Mississippi Community College in Scooba for higher education. Notable landmarks include the surrounding countryside, with its vast farmlands and scenic natural beauty. The local churches and historic homes contribute to the community’s rural Southern charm, and nearby rivers and outdoor recreation areas make Porterville a peaceful destination for outdoor activities and a close-knit community atmosphere in Kemper County.