Cities and Towns in LaRue County, Kentucky
Founded in 1843, LaRue County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, LaRue County was formed from Hardin County. The city of Hodgenville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, LaRue County has a population of 15,028 and area of 263 square miles (681 km²).
List of all cities in LaRue County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Buffalo, KY | 42716 | 270 |
| Hodgenville, KY | 42748 | 270 |
| Magnolia, KY | 42757 | 270 |
| Mount Sherman, KY | 42764 | 270 |
| White City, KY | 42748 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in LaRue County, Kentucky
Hodgenville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,200 residents
- Zip Code: 42748
- Latitude: 37.5706° N
- Longitude: 85.7399° W
City Location and History:
Hodgenville, the county seat of LaRue County, is located in central Kentucky, about 12 miles southeast of Elizabethtown. The town was established in 1818 and named after Robert Hodgen, an early settler who donated land for the town. Hodgenville is best known as the birthplace of President Abraham Lincoln, whose family farmed the land in the early 19th century. The town’s economy historically revolved around agriculture, with tobacco, corn, and livestock being key products. Hodgenville’s connection to Lincoln has made it a significant historical and cultural destination, drawing visitors from across the country to learn more about the 16th president’s early life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Hodgenville is served by LaRue County Public Schools, which include LaRue County High School, LaRue County Middle School, and Hodgenville Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, which preserves the location of Lincoln’s birth and features a replica of the log cabin in which he was born. The town square is home to the iconic Abraham Lincoln Statue and Lincoln Museum, which showcases exhibits about Lincoln’s life and legacy. Hodgenville hosts the annual Lincoln Days Celebration, which honors Lincoln’s heritage with parades, reenactments, and various cultural events. The town’s history and strong connection to Lincoln make it an important cultural hub in Kentucky.
Upton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 residents
- Zip Code: 42784
- Latitude: 37.4623° N
- Longitude: 85.8984° W
City Location and History:
Upton is a small town located in the southern part of LaRue County, along the LaRue-Hardin County line. The town was established in the late 19th century and developed as a railroad stop along the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. Upton’s location near U.S. Route 31W made it an important hub for transportation and trade in the region, with local farmers bringing goods such as tobacco and corn to market. Over the years, Upton has remained a small, rural community with a focus on agriculture and local commerce, while also benefiting from its proximity to the larger city of Elizabethtown.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Upton’s students attend schools in both LaRue and Hardin Counties, including LaRue County High School and Upton Elementary School. The town’s landmarks include the Upton Baptist Church, which has been a central part of the community since the late 19th century, and several historic homes that reflect Upton’s rural character. Upton is also known for its annual festivals and community events, such as local fairs and seasonal celebrations, which bring together residents and visitors to celebrate the town’s agricultural roots. The surrounding farmland and peaceful atmosphere make Upton an ideal location for those seeking a quiet, small-town lifestyle.
Buffalo
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 500 residents
- Zip Code: 42716
- Latitude: 37.5092° N
- Longitude: 85.6994° W
City Location and History:
Buffalo is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of LaRue County, near Hodgenville. The town was established in the early 19th century and was named after the buffalo that once roamed the region. Buffalo’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly tobacco and livestock farming. The town grew as a local trading post for nearby farmers and became a close-knit, rural community. Although it remains small, Buffalo has retained its agricultural character, with many local families continuing to farm the surrounding land. The town’s rural atmosphere and proximity to larger towns like Hodgenville have helped maintain its traditional way of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Students in Buffalo attend LaRue County schools, including LaRue County High School in nearby Hodgenville. Notable landmarks in Buffalo include historic churches, such as Buffalo Baptist Church, and the surrounding farms that have been passed down through generations. The town is close to the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park, making it a popular spot for tourists seeking to explore Lincoln’s legacy. Buffalo is also known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, with nearby parks and trails offering hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The town’s rural setting and strong community ties make Buffalo a peaceful, family-friendly place to live.
Magnolia
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 500 residents
- Zip Code: 42757
- Latitude: 37.4625° N
- Longitude: 85.7402° W
City Location and History:
Magnolia is a small, unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of LaRue County. The town was named after the magnolia trees that once lined the area. Magnolia developed as a rural agricultural community, with local farmers producing tobacco, corn, and livestock. Over time, the town grew as a local center for trade and farming, with a focus on small businesses and local services. Magnolia has maintained its agricultural heritage and rural charm, offering a peaceful setting for residents who work in nearby towns or farms. The town is also known for its historical significance and connection to the region’s agricultural past.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Magnolia’s students attend schools in the LaRue County School District, with LaRue County High School in Hodgenville serving older students. Landmarks in Magnolia include historic homes and churches that reflect the town’s long history as a farming community. The surrounding farmland, much of which has been in operation for generations, is a key feature of the town’s landscape. Magnolia is also close to Mammoth Cave National Park, providing residents with easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring the famous cave system. The town’s close-knit community and rural setting make Magnolia a desirable place for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle.
Athertonville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 300 residents
- Zip Code: 42715
- Latitude: 37.5293° N
- Longitude: 85.6275° W
City Location and History:
Athertonville is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of LaRue County, near the border with Nelson County. The town was established in the early 20th century as a distillery town, with its economy centered around the production of bourbon whiskey. Athertonville became known for its whiskey production during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, but the industry declined following Prohibition. Today, Athertonville is a quiet residential community, with many of its residents working in nearby Hodgenville or Bardstown. The town’s history as a distillery town remains an important part of its cultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Students in Athertonville attend schools in Hodgenville, including LaRue County High School. Landmarks in the town include the remnants of old distillery buildings, which serve as reminders of Athertonville’s whiskey-making past. The surrounding farmland provides a peaceful, rural environment for residents, with opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting. Athertonville’s proximity to both Hodgenville and Bardstown allows residents to enjoy the amenities of larger towns while maintaining a quiet, country lifestyle. The town’s unique history and rural charm make it an interesting and tranquil place to live in LaRue County.
