Cities and Towns in Martin County, Indiana

Founded on Jan 17, 1820, Martin County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Martin County was formed from Daviess and Dubois Counties. The city of Shoals is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Martin County has a population of 9,780 and area of 336 square miles (870 km²).

List of all cities in Martin County, IN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alfordsville, IN	47553	812
Bramble, IN	47553	812
Burns City, IN	47553	812
Cale, IN	47581	812
Crane, IN	47522	812
Crane Naval Weapons Support, IN	47522	812
Dover Hill, IN	47581	812
East Shoals, IN	47581	812
Halbert, IN	47581	812
Hindostan Falls, IN	47581	812
Indian Springs, IN	47581	812
Ironton, IN	47581	812
Loogootee, IN	47553	812
Reeve, IN	47553	812
Rollins, IN	47581	812
Rutherford, IN	47553	812
Scenic Hill, IN	47553	812
Shoals, IN	47581	812
Trinity Springs, IN	47581	812
Whitfield, IN	47553	812
Willow Valley, IN	47581	812
Windom, IN	47581	812

Major Cities and Towns in Martin County, Indiana

Loogootee, Indiana

Overview and History

Loogootee is the largest city in Martin County, located in the southwestern part of Indiana. Founded in 1853, the city’s name is believed to be a combination of Thomas Lowe and Barney Ogo, two early settlers who were instrumental in the development of the community, along with a nod to the French word “ooty,” meaning highland. Loogootee grew as a railroad town, with the Ohio and Mississippi Railroad (later part of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad) playing a significant role in its early development. Over the years, the city became the commercial hub of the region, serving as the center for agriculture, manufacturing, and trade for surrounding rural areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Loogootee is served by the Loogootee Community School Corporation, with Loogootee High School being the primary educational institution. Key landmarks include St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, a historic church that has served the community for over a century, and West Boggs Lake, a popular destination for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and camping. Loogootee also hosts an annual event, the Loogootee Summerfest, which brings together residents for live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The town’s proximity to Hoosier National Forest offers additional opportunities for hiking and nature exploration.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 1.57 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,651 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 47553
• Latitude: 38.6750° N
• Longitude: 86.9139° W

Shoals, Indiana

Overview and History

Shoals is a small town located in the eastern part of Martin County, along the East Fork of the White River. Founded in 1844, Shoals was originally called Memphis, but the name was later changed to reflect the shoals, or rocky shallows, of the nearby river. The town grew as a river port and trading post, with its location on the White River making it a key center for transporting goods, especially agricultural products. Shoals is also known for its unique geological feature, the Jug Rock, the largest free-standing table rock formation east of the Mississippi River. Over the years, Shoals has remained a small, close-knit community with strong ties to its natural surroundings and local history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Shoals is served by the Shoals Community School Corporation, with Shoals High School being the town’s primary educational institution. The town’s most famous landmark is Jug Rock, which draws visitors interested in geology and natural history. Shoals is also home to the Martin County Museum, which preserves the area’s rich history, including exhibits on the town’s river heritage and local culture. The annual Shoals Catfish Festival celebrates the town’s connection to the river, offering food, music, and entertainment. The nearby Hoosier National Forest provides additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking and camping.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 1.10 square miles
• Population: Approximately 740 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 47581
• Latitude: 38.6667° N
• Longitude: 86.7928° W

Crane, Indiana

Overview and History

Crane is a small town located in the northwestern part of Martin County. It was established in the 1940s as a result of the creation of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division, a large military facility that spans several counties, including Martin. Named after Commodore William M. Crane, an early leader in the U.S. Navy, the town of Crane grew to support the workforce employed at the base. The base remains one of the largest naval installations in the world, focusing on military research, development, and support. The presence of the Crane Naval Base has significantly shaped the town’s economy, with much of the local population connected to the base in some capacity.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crane is served by the North Daviess Community Schools, with students attending North Daviess Junior-Senior High School in nearby Elnora. While the town itself is small, the Crane Naval Base is the most notable landmark, covering over 100 square miles and contributing significantly to military innovation and research. The base has its own museum, showcasing its history and contributions to national defense. Crane’s location near the West Boggs Park and Lake provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing, boating, and camping.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: 0.20 square miles
• Population: Approximately 166 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 47522
• Latitude: 38.8953° N
• Longitude: 86.9022° W

Burns City, Indiana

Overview and History

Burns City is a small, unincorporated community located in northern Martin County. It was established in the late 19th century and has remained a quiet, rural town throughout its history. The town grew primarily as an agricultural community, with nearby farms producing corn, soybeans, and other crops. Although small, Burns City has a unique place in Martin County’s history, as it is located near the Crane Naval Base, which has influenced the town’s economy and population. While it has remained a rural area, its proximity to the naval base has brought a mix of civilian and military personnel to the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Burns City is part of the North Daviess Community Schools district, with students attending North Daviess Junior-Senior High School in Elnora. The town is situated near West Boggs Lake, providing opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and hiking. Its close proximity to the Crane Naval Base means that many residents are either employed by or have connections to the military installation. Burns City is also near several recreational areas within Hoosier National Forest, offering additional opportunities for camping, wildlife observation, and hiking.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 100 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 47553
• Latitude: 38.8670° N
• Longitude: 86.9086° W

Trinity Springs, Indiana

Overview and History

Trinity Springs is a small, unincorporated community in southeastern Martin County, known for its once-famous mineral springs. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Trinity Springs became a popular destination for people seeking the healing powers of its natural springs. The town developed around the springs, with hotels and bathhouses catering to visitors looking to benefit from the mineral waters. Though the popularity of mineral springs declined in the mid-20th century, Trinity Springs retains its historical charm. Today, it remains a quiet rural area with a rich history tied to the springs that once made it a health resort.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Trinity Springs is part of the Shoals Community School Corporation, with students attending Shoals High School. While the springs no longer draw the crowds they once did, the town’s history is preserved in local lore, and the remnants of the old bathhouses and hotels can still be seen. The surrounding countryside offers scenic beauty, with opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural landscape of southern Indiana. The nearby Martin State Forest provides additional recreational options, including camping and nature trails.

Area, Population, and Coordinates

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 50 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 47581
• Latitude: 38.6836° N
• Longitude: 86.6914° W