Cities and Towns in Marion County, Tennessee
Founded in 1817, Marion County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Marion County was formed from Indian lands. The city of Jasper is the county seat. With FIPS code of 115, Marion County has a population of 28,877 and area of 500 square miles (1,295 km²).
List of all cities in Marion County, TN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Guild, TN | 37340 | 423 |
| Jasper, TN | 37347 | 423 |
| Kimball, TN | 37347 | 423 |
| Sequatchie, TN | 37374 | 423 |
| South Pittsburg, TN | 37380 | 423 |
| Whiteside, TN | 37396 | 423 |
Major Cities and Towns in Marion County, Tennessee
Jasper, Tennessee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,500
- Zip Codes: 37347
- Latitude: 35.0844° N
- Longitude: 85.5974° W
Location and History
Jasper, located in southeastern Tennessee, is the county seat of Marion County. It is situated along U.S. Route 41 and the Tennessee River, approximately 25 miles west of Chattanooga and 10 miles from the Alabama state line. Jasper’s history dates back to the early 19th century when it was initially settled in the 1830s. The town was named after William Jasper, a hero of the American Revolution. The Tennessee River played a significant role in Jasper’s early development, facilitating trade and commerce, and it remains an important geographical feature of the area.
During the Civil War, Jasper was strategically located and saw military activity from both Union and Confederate forces. Despite the destruction caused by the war, the town slowly recovered and grew through the late 19th and early 20th centuries, largely due to its proximity to key transportation routes and the river. In modern times, Jasper has become known for its natural beauty, with nearby attractions such as the Tennessee River Gorge and the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau. The town has maintained a small-town charm while benefiting from its location near the larger city of Chattanooga.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jasper is served by the Marion County School District, with key educational institutions including Jasper Middle School and Marion County High School. These schools offer a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities, with sports teams and academic clubs playing an important role in the community. Additionally, Jasper’s proximity to Chattanooga allows residents to access higher education institutions like the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
Notable landmarks in Jasper include the Marion County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the seat of county government. The Jasper City Park offers outdoor recreational facilities, including walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. The nearby Tennessee River Gorge, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Tennessee,” provides breathtaking views and is a popular spot for hiking and kayaking. Jasper is also close to the popular tourist destination, the Nickajack Cave, which is famous for its limestone formations and bat populations. The town hosts several annual events, such as the Jasper Farmers Market and the annual Fourth of July celebration, which draw both locals and visitors alike.
South Pittsburg, Tennessee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 6.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,200
- Zip Codes: 37380
- Latitude: 35.0039° N
- Longitude: 85.7406° W
Location and History
South Pittsburg, located in the southeastern corner of Tennessee, is situated near the Alabama state line and about 30 miles west of Chattanooga. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was initially developed as a railroad town. Its strategic location along the Tennessee-Alabama border and proximity to Chattanooga made South Pittsburg a significant industrial and commercial center during the early 20th century, particularly for the steel and coal industries.
The town’s name was derived from its early association with Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, due to its focus on industrial production, especially in steel manufacturing. South Pittsburg became known as a center for the production of cast iron and steel, with industries such as the South Pittsburg Foundry and various coal mines contributing to the local economy. During the mid-20th century, South Pittsburg underwent economic changes as industries shifted, but it continued to thrive as a small town with a close-knit community. Despite its industrial past, South Pittsburg has preserved its historic downtown and continues to maintain a rural, small-town charm while fostering local businesses and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
South Pittsburg is served by the Marion County School District, with South Pittsburg High School and South Pittsburg Elementary School being central to the town’s educational system. The schools offer strong academic programs, along with a variety of sports and extracurricular activities. The town is also within commuting distance of larger cities like Chattanooga, providing additional educational opportunities.
Key landmarks in South Pittsburg include the historic downtown area, which retains many original buildings from its industrial boom in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The South Pittsburg Depot, a former railroad station, is an important historical landmark. South Pittsburg is also known for hosting the annual National Cornbread Festival, which celebrates the town’s culinary heritage and attracts thousands of visitors each year. The event includes cornbread cooking contests, music, and artisan booths, making it a significant local tradition. The town is also close to outdoor recreational areas, such as the nearby Nickajack Lake and the Tennessee River, which provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. South Pittsburg’s historic charm, annual festivals, and scenic natural surroundings make it a popular destination for tourists and a beloved home for its residents.
Tracy City, Tennessee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Zip Codes: 37387
- Latitude: 35.2083° N
- Longitude: 85.7430° W
Location and History
Tracy City is a small town located in the southern part of Marion County, nestled in the foothills of the Cumberland Plateau. It is situated along U.S. Route 41A, about 15 miles northwest of South Pittsburg and roughly 35 miles from Chattanooga. The town was founded in the late 19th century during the coal mining boom, and its location made it an ideal site for coal production. It was named after Tracy City, which was an early coal mining town that contributed significantly to the region’s economy.
Tracy City played a key role in the coal industry, with the Tracy City Coal Company being one of the largest employers in the area. The town grew rapidly during the late 1800s and early 1900s due to the demand for coal and other natural resources. However, as coal production declined in the mid-20th century, the town’s economy shifted and the population began to decrease. Today, Tracy City retains its small-town charm, with much of its history preserved in the form of historic buildings and landmarks. Though it is no longer a coal mining center, Tracy City still has strong ties to its industrial past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tracy City is part of the Marion County School District, and students typically attend Tracy City Elementary School and Marion County High School, which offers a range of academic and athletic programs. The town’s schools emphasize community involvement and provide opportunities for local youth to engage in extracurricular activities.
Notable landmarks in Tracy City include the historic Tracy City Depot, which once served as a vital railroad stop during the town’s industrial heyday. Tracy City is also home to the Grundy Forest State Natural Area, which offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The nearby Fiery Gizzard Trail is known for its rugged terrain and stunning waterfalls. Tracy City’s role in the coal industry is remembered through the town’s history and architecture, while its beautiful natural surroundings continue to attract visitors interested in outdoor recreation. The town’s small population and close-knit community create a unique, peaceful atmosphere that draws people who appreciate its quiet charm and rural lifestyle.
