Cities and Towns in Lewis County, Tennessee
Founded in 1843, Lewis County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Lewis County was formed from Hickman, Lawrence, Maury and Wayne counties. The city of Hohenwald is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Lewis County has a population of 12,857 and area of 282 square miles (730 km²).
List of all cities in Lewis County, TN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Hohenwald, TN | 38462 | 931 |
Kimmins, TN | 38462 | 931 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lewis County, Tennessee
Lewis County, located in the south-central region of Tennessee, is known for its rural charm, scenic beauty, and strong agricultural heritage. The county includes several small towns and communities that reflect its rich history and tight-knit rural culture. Below is a detailed look at the major cities and towns in Lewis County.
Hohenwald
General Information
- Area: 4.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 38462
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.5464° N / 87.5360° W
City Location and History
Hohenwald is the county seat of Lewis County, located in the southern part of the state. The town was established in the mid-19th century and named after Hohenwald, a German word meaning “high forest,” chosen to reflect the area’s natural beauty and dense forests. Early settlers in the area were primarily from Tennessee and surrounding states, and the town quickly became an agricultural hub, with the cultivation of cotton, tobacco, and livestock forming the backbone of its economy. During the late 1800s, Hohenwald saw steady growth due to its location along the Tennessee Central Railway, which made it a vital center for trade and transport. In the 20th century, the arrival of industries, particularly in textiles and wood products, contributed to Hohenwald’s economy. Today, the town remains a key economic and cultural center in Lewis County, known for its small-town charm, outdoor beauty, and historical significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hohenwald is served by the Lewis County School District, which includes Lewis County High School, Lewis County Middle School, and Hohenwald Elementary School. These schools provide a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities to local students. The town is also home to The Tennessee College of Applied Technology, which offers vocational training and educational opportunities for adult learners. Hohenwald’s major landmarks include the Lewis County Courthouse, a prominent historic building in the heart of the town. Another important landmark is the National Museum of the American Indian, located in the nearby Lewis County Public Library, which showcases the area’s Native American history and artifacts. The Elephant Sanctuary, one of the world’s largest natural-habitat sanctuaries for elephants, is located just outside Hohenwald, offering a unique and popular attraction for visitors interested in wildlife conservation and animal welfare.
Summertown
General Information
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500
- Zip Code: 38483
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.5430° N / 87.5441° W
City Location and History
Summertown is a small rural town located in the northeastern part of Lewis County, approximately 10 miles northeast of Hohenwald. The town was originally established in the 19th century and grew as an agricultural community. It has always been known for its farming activities, particularly tobacco, corn, and livestock, which have shaped its economy over the years. Summertown is strategically situated near the Buffalo River, a major waterway that historically provided transportation and trade routes for local farmers. Like many small towns in Tennessee, Summertown has maintained its rural roots while slowly adapting to modern life. Its population is small, and its economy is primarily agricultural, with some local businesses serving the needs of the community. The town offers a quiet, country lifestyle for its residents and continues to be a place where family traditions and outdoor activities are highly valued.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Summertown is served by the Lewis County School District, with Summertown High School being the primary educational institution in the town. The school offers a range of academic programs as well as athletic opportunities, and it is a vital part of the Summertown community. One of the major landmarks in Summertown is The Summertown Community Center, a gathering place for local events, including annual festivals and social gatherings. The town also has a small but growing number of locally owned businesses, including farms that sell fresh produce and goods directly to the community. The Buffalo River is a significant feature of Summertown’s landscape, providing recreational opportunities like fishing, boating, and hiking, while also contributing to the town’s agricultural heritage. The peaceful, rural setting of Summertown makes it a haven for nature lovers and those seeking a slower pace of life.
Napier
General Information
- Area: 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200
- Zip Code: 38461
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.4787° N / 87.5541° W
City Location and History
Napier is a very small unincorporated community located in the eastern part of Lewis County, Tennessee. It is situated near the Buffalo River, which provides a picturesque natural setting and has been an important feature in the region’s history. Though historically not a large settlement, Napier was once home to a small group of settlers who relied on agriculture for their livelihoods. Early industries were centered around farming and timber, and the community grew slowly over the years. However, as transportation and trade routes changed, Napier remained a quiet, rural area. Over the years, it has become a more isolated area with a small number of residents. Today, Napier is a quiet place with a rural charm, attracting those looking for a simple lifestyle and scenic views, particularly those interested in the outdoors and farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As a small community, Napier is not home to its own school but is part of the Lewis County School District, with children attending nearby schools in Hohenwald or Summertown. The town is primarily residential and rural, with few commercial establishments. However, it is surrounded by beautiful natural landmarks, including the Buffalo River and the lush forests that provide ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The Napier Community Center, though modest, serves as a gathering place for local events and social functions. Despite its size, the natural beauty and peacefulness of Napier’s surroundings make it a place cherished by locals and visitors alike who enjoy a slower pace of life and proximity to nature.
Culleoka
General Information
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Zip Code: 38451
- Latitude/Longitude: 35.5797° N / 87.0603° W
City Location and History
Culleoka is a small town located in the northwestern part of Lewis County, close to the Maury County border. The town was originally settled in the early 19th century and was named after a combination of early settlers’ names, as was common in the region. The town developed as an agricultural community, with early settlers focused on farming, particularly in tobacco, cotton, and corn. Over time, Culleoka’s location along several key roads allowed it to serve as a point of commerce for surrounding rural areas. The town grew slowly but steadily, maintaining its agricultural identity throughout the 20th century. Today, Culleoka remains a quiet rural town, with a tight-knit community and a continued focus on farming and outdoor activities. Its proximity to the larger cities of Columbia and Spring Hill has allowed for a mix of rural and suburban lifestyles for many of its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Culleoka is served by the Maury County School District, with Culleoka Unit School providing K-12 education to the town’s students. The school is central to the community, hosting various academic and athletic events that bring the town together. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Culleoka Community Center, which hosts local events such as the Culleoka Annual Fall Festival, bringing residents together for food, entertainment, and crafts. Culleoka Park is another key feature of the town, providing residents with recreational facilities such as sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. The town’s rural setting offers residents a variety of outdoor activities, with nearby Culleoka Creek providing opportunities for fishing and nature walks. The peaceful countryside surrounding Culleoka also makes it a favored location for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle while still being within reach of more urban amenities.