Cities and Towns in Madison County, Texas
Founded in 1853, Madison County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Madison County was formed from Grimes County, Leon County and Walker County. The city of Madisonville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 313, Madison County has a population of 13,718 and area of 470 square miles (1,217 km²).
List of all cities in Madison County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Connor, TX | 77864 | 936 |
| Cottonwood, TX | 77872 | 936 |
| Elwood, TX | 75852 | 903/430 |
| Madisonville, TX | 77864 | 936 |
| Midway, TX | 75852 | 903/430 |
| North Zulch, TX | 77872 | 936 |
Major Cities and Towns in Madison County, Texas
Madison County is located in the East Texas region, known for its rural landscapes, rich history, and strong ties to agriculture. The county is home to a handful of small but notable towns, each with its own story and unique character. Below are the major cities and towns in Madison County.
Madisonville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.6 square miles
- Population: 4,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 77864
- Latitude: 30.9630° N
- Longitude: 95.9027° W
City Location and History
Madisonville is the county seat of Madison County, located in the central part of the county, approximately 30 miles north of Huntsville and 125 miles north of Houston. The city was founded in the 1850s and was named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. Its location along the Old San Antonio Road, a historic trail, played a significant role in its early development. Initially, Madisonville was a stopover for travelers heading west and a trade hub for settlers in East Texas.
In the late 1800s, Madisonville’s economy grew with the establishment of the railroad and the discovery of natural resources like timber and oil. Cotton farming was also a major industry in the region. Today, Madisonville is a small, vibrant town with a strong sense of community and a reputation for being the “Horse Capital of Texas,” as it has a history of breeding and training horses. The city has maintained its rural charm, while also developing a small-town economy based on local businesses, agriculture, and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Madisonville is served by the Madisonville Independent School District, which includes Madisonville High School, Madisonville Junior High School, and several elementary schools. The district provides a solid education with a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, fine arts programs, and clubs, contributing to the strong sense of community pride in the town.
One of Madisonville’s key landmarks is the Madison County Courthouse, a historic building located in the center of town, serving as the heart of local government. Another prominent site is the Madisonville City Park, which features a community pool, picnic areas, and sports fields. The Madisonville Public Library is also an important local resource for education and community events. Madisonville is also known for the annual Madison County Fair, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with rodeo events, livestock shows, and local entertainment. The town is also home to the Texas Renaissance Festival, a well-known attraction that draws visitors from across the state.
North Zulch
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: 500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 77872
- Latitude: 30.7450° N
- Longitude: 95.6371° W
City Location and History
North Zulch is a small rural town located in the northern part of Madison County, approximately 15 miles south of Madisonville and 30 miles north of Bryan-College Station. The town was originally established as a railroad community in the late 1800s, when the International-Great Northern Railroad built a line through the area. The name “Zulch” is believed to have originated from a local family or business, with “North” indicating the town’s position relative to the original Zulch settlement in the county.
In the early years, North Zulch thrived as a railroad and agricultural town. Cotton, timber, and livestock were significant industries, and the railroad played a key role in transporting goods to larger markets. Over time, as the railroad’s influence diminished and highway transportation became more important, North Zulch evolved into a quiet residential community. Today, the town retains much of its small-town charm, with local farms, ranches, and a few businesses serving the surrounding area. The town’s proximity to larger cities like Madisonville and Bryan allows residents to enjoy a rural lifestyle while remaining connected to more urban amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Zulch is served by the North Zulch Independent School District, which provides education from elementary through high school. North Zulch High School is the primary educational institution, offering a range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, FFA, and arts programs. The district is small but offers a close-knit, community-focused environment for students and their families.
One of North Zulch’s key landmarks is the historic railroad depot, which stands as a reminder of the town’s early days as a railroad stop. The town also boasts several local parks and green spaces, providing residents with recreational opportunities. The nearby Lake Madison offers fishing, boating, and outdoor activities for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. North Zulch is also known for its small-town festivals and community gatherings, including the annual North Zulch Festival, which celebrates local culture, food, and entertainment.
Other Communities in Madison County
Other small communities in Madison County include the unincorporated areas of Midway, Iola, and Bedias. While these areas may not have a large population, they are an integral part of the county’s agricultural and cultural landscape. These rural communities are mostly residential and agricultural, with families involved in farming, ranching, and small businesses. The slower pace of life and natural beauty of Madison County make it a peaceful and attractive place for those looking for a rural lifestyle, while still being within driving distance of larger cities like Bryan, College Station, and Huntsville.
Madison County is characterized by its historical significance, agricultural roots, and close-knit communities. Its towns, like Madisonville and North Zulch, continue to preserve the traditions of East Texas while adapting to the modern needs of their residents.
