Cities and Towns in McLean County, Kentucky

Founded in 1854, McLean County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, McLean County was formed from Daviess County, Muhlenberg County and Ohio County. The city of Calhoun is the county seat. With FIPS code of 149, McLean County has a population of 9,100 and area of 254 square miles (658 km²).

List of all cities in McLean County, KY alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Beech Grove, KY 42322 270
Calhoun, KY 42327 270
Island, KY 42350 270
Livermore, KY 42352 270
Nuckols, KY 42352 270
Rumsey, KY 42371 270
Sacramento, KY 42372 270

Major Cities and Towns in McLean County, Kentucky

Calhoun

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

  • Area: 0.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 750 residents
  • Zip Code: 42327
  • Latitude: 37.5386° N
  • Longitude: 87.2595° W

City Location and History:

Calhoun, the county seat of McLean County, is located in western Kentucky, along the Green River. It was founded in 1784 and initially called Rhoadsville after its founder, Captain Henry Rhoads. The town was renamed Calhoun in 1849, in honor of John Calhoun, a prominent American statesman. Its location along the Green River played a critical role in its early development, as the river was used for transporting goods such as coal, timber, and agricultural products. Calhoun was an important trade and transportation hub for the region during the 19th century, and its history is closely tied to river commerce. Today, Calhoun is known for its quiet, small-town atmosphere and its historical significance in the development of McLean County.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Calhoun is served by McLean County High School and McLean County Middle School, which are located within the town and serve the broader county. Notable landmarks in Calhoun include the McLean County Courthouse, a historic building in the heart of the town, and the Calhoun Confederate Monument, which commemorates the town’s Civil War history. The nearby Green River continues to be a popular spot for boating, fishing, and outdoor activities. Each year, Calhoun hosts the Green River Catfish Festival, a local tradition that celebrates the town’s connection to the river with fishing tournaments, food, and entertainment.

Livermore

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

  • Area: 1.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,400 residents
  • Zip Code: 42352
  • Latitude: 37.4917° N
  • Longitude: 87.1358° W

City Location and History:

Livermore is located in eastern McLean County, where the Green and Rough Rivers converge. Founded in the early 19th century, Livermore was an important river town due to its strategic position at the junction of two major waterways. The town was named after James Livermore, an early settler and prominent local figure. River trade and commerce played a significant role in Livermore’s early economy, with the shipping of coal, lumber, and agricultural products driving the town’s growth. Livermore’s rich history also includes a connection to the Civil War, as it was the site of skirmishes between Union and Confederate forces. Today, Livermore is a peaceful town known for its scenic river views and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Livermore is home to Livermore Elementary School, while older students attend McLean County High School in nearby Calhoun. Landmarks in the town include the Livermore Bridge, a historic truss bridge spanning the Green River, and the Livermore Downtown Historic District, which features buildings from the town’s early years. Livermore’s location along the rivers makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing. The town also hosts the annual Livermore Heritage Festival, which celebrates the community’s history with parades, food, and entertainment. The nearby Myer Creek Park provides additional recreational opportunities for residents and visitors.

Sacramento

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

  • Area: 0.6 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 470 residents
  • Zip Code: 42372
  • Latitude: 37.4156° N
  • Longitude: 87.2689° W

City Location and History:

Sacramento is a small town located in the southern part of McLean County. Established in the mid-19th century, the town was named after the California city of Sacramento, reflecting the optimism of the Gold Rush era. Sacramento is most famous for being the site of the Battle of Sacramento during the Civil War, a significant skirmish in 1861 between Confederate forces led by General Nathan Bedford Forrest and Union troops. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, with tobacco and livestock farming playing major roles. Today, Sacramento remains a small, close-knit community with a rich historical heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Sacramento Elementary School serves the town’s younger students, while high school students attend McLean County High School in Calhoun. The town’s most notable landmark is the Battle of Sacramento Civil War Reenactment site, where the historic battle is commemorated annually with a large-scale reenactment that draws visitors from across the region. Other landmarks include the Sacramento Baptist Church and several historic homes that date back to the town’s early days. Sacramento is also known for its peaceful rural landscape, with farming continuing to be an important part of the local economy. The town’s annual events, such as the Sacramento Civil War Days, celebrate its deep connection to Kentucky’s history.

Island

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

  • Area: 0.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 450 residents
  • Zip Code: 42350
  • Latitude: 37.4470° N
  • Longitude: 87.1420° W

City Location and History:

Island is a small town in the eastern part of McLean County, located near the Green River. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and named after its location on a raised area of land that often appeared as an island during flooding. Island developed as a farming community, with tobacco, corn, and livestock being the primary sources of income for local residents. The town’s economy was historically tied to the river, with goods being transported by steamboat. Although Island has remained small over the years, it continues to maintain its rural charm and strong agricultural identity.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Island’s students attend Livermore Elementary School and McLean County High School in nearby towns. The town’s most notable landmarks include the historic Island Presbyterian Church, which has been a focal point of community life for over a century. Island is also known for its proximity to the Green River, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities. The town’s rural landscape, with its rolling farmlands and quiet atmosphere, appeals to those seeking a slower pace of life. Island’s annual events, such as local church festivals and community picnics, reflect the town’s strong sense of community and agricultural heritage.