Cities and Towns in Metcalfe County, Kentucky

Founded in 1860, Metcalfe County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Metcalfe County was formed from Barren County, Hart County, Green County, Adair County, Cumberland County and Monroe County. The city of Edmonton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 169, Metcalfe County has a population of 10,349 and area of 291 square miles (754 km²).

List of all cities in Metcalfe County, KY alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Beaumont, KY	42124	270
Beechville, KY	42129	270
Cave Ridge, KY	42129	270
Cedar Flat, KY	42129	270
Center, KY	42214	270
Cork, KY	42129	270
Edmonton, KY	42129	270
Goodluck, KY	42129	270
Knob Lick, KY	42154	270
Randolph, KY	42129	270
Subtle, KY	42129	270
Sulphur Well, KY	42129	270
Summer Shade, KY	42166	270
Willow Shade, KY	42166	270

Major Cities and Towns in Metcalfe County, Kentucky

Edmonton

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 2.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,600 residents
• Zip Code: 42129
• Latitude: 36.9789° N
• Longitude: 85.6142° W

City Location and History:

Edmonton, the county seat of Metcalfe County, is located in south-central Kentucky, about 95 miles southeast of Louisville. The town was established in 1836 and named after Edmund Rogers, an early surveyor and landowner in the region. Edmonton’s location along the historic stagecoach route contributed to its early growth as a commercial center for the surrounding agricultural communities. Over the years, it has maintained its importance as the political and economic hub of the county. Farming, particularly tobacco and livestock, has historically driven the local economy, although Edmonton has diversified with small businesses and manufacturing in recent decades. Its rural charm and historic character, including well-preserved architecture, make it an attractive place for visitors and residents alike.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Edmonton is home to Metcalfe County High School, Metcalfe County Middle School, and Metcalfe County Elementary School, which serve students from across the region. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the historic Metcalfe County Courthouse, built in 1868 and still in use today. The town also features several historic homes and churches, reflecting its rich past. The nearby Edmonton Memorial Park provides recreational opportunities for residents, with facilities for sports, picnicking, and walking trails. Each year, the Metcalfe County Pumpkin Festival, held in downtown Edmonton, attracts visitors with its parades, crafts, and food, celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage.

Summer Shade

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 300 residents
• Zip Code: 42166
• Latitude: 36.8798° N
• Longitude: 85.6714° W

City Location and History:

Summer Shade is a small, unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Metcalfe County, known for its quiet rural character and scenic landscapes. The town was named for its naturally shaded areas, which provided a cool respite during hot summers. Established in the mid-19th century, Summer Shade grew as a farming community, with tobacco, corn, and livestock playing key roles in its development. While the community has remained small over the years, it is characterized by a strong sense of community and a slower pace of life. Summer Shade is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland, making it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Summer Shade’s students attend Metcalfe County schools, with elementary, middle, and high schools located in nearby Edmonton. The town’s main landmark is the Summer Shade General Store, a long-standing fixture of the community where locals gather for supplies and conversation. Another notable site is the Summer Shade Baptist Church, which has served the town for generations. The surrounding countryside provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and fishing. Summer Shade’s annual events, like community picnics and holiday gatherings, reflect its strong tradition of family and community ties.

Wisdom

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 100 residents
• Zip Code: 42130
• Latitude: 36.9167° N
• Longitude: 85.6520° W

City Location and History:

Wisdom is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Metcalfe County. The town was named after local resident Peter Wisdom, who played a significant role in its early development. Wisdom’s history is closely tied to agriculture, with tobacco, corn, and cattle farming being the primary economic activities. Over time, the community has remained small but retains a strong connection to its agricultural roots. The town’s rural setting and peaceful atmosphere have made it a place where generations of families have lived and worked the land. Despite its modest size, Wisdom has a rich history, with several old farmhouses and barns scattered across the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Residents of Wisdom attend schools in the Metcalfe County School District, with educational facilities located in nearby Edmonton. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Wisdom Church of Christ, which has been a religious and social center for the community for many years. The surrounding farmlands and rural landscape provide picturesque views and opportunities for outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and hiking. Although small, Wisdom’s community spirit is evident in local events such as church gatherings and seasonal festivals, where residents come together to celebrate their shared heritage.

Center

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 200 residents
• Zip Code: 42214
• Latitude: 37.1211° N
• Longitude: 85.6753° W

City Location and History:

Center is a small, unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Metcalfe County. The town was named “Center” due to its location near the geographic center of the region. Established in the 19th century, Center has historically been a farming community, with tobacco and livestock being the primary sources of income for its residents. While the town has remained relatively small over the years, it has preserved its rural charm and close-knit community atmosphere. The landscape around Center is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and farmland, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate country living.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Center is part of the Metcalfe County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Edmonton. The community’s key landmarks include Center United Methodist Church, which has served the town since its early days and remains a focal point for religious and social gatherings. The town is also home to several historic farms and family-owned businesses that reflect its agricultural heritage. Center’s proximity to natural attractions like Barren River Lake and Green River Lake provides residents with recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping. Each year, Center hosts small local events that bring the community together to celebrate its rural roots and heritage.

Knob Lick

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 250 residents
• Zip Code: 42154
• Latitude: 37.0379° N
• Longitude: 85.6411° W

City Location and History:

Knob Lick is an unincorporated community located in the eastern part of Metcalfe County, known for its scenic views and rural setting. The town’s name comes from a nearby hill, or “knob,” and a natural salt lick that attracted wildlife to the area in the early days of settlement. Founded in the early 1800s, Knob Lick developed as a farming community, with tobacco and livestock being the primary industries. The town’s location near the Knob Lick Mountain made it a popular stop for travelers and traders in the 19th century. Today, Knob Lick remains a small, quiet town where farming and community life continue to thrive.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Knob Lick is part of the Metcalfe County School District, with children attending schools in nearby Edmonton. The town’s notable landmarks include the historic Knob Lick Baptist Church, which has been a spiritual and social center for the community for over a century. The surrounding countryside, including Knob Lick Mountain, offers scenic hiking and nature-watching opportunities. Local farms, many of which have been in the same families for generations, are a testament to the town’s enduring agricultural traditions. Knob Lick also hosts community events such as church picnics and holiday celebrations, which reflect the town’s strong sense of community and heritage.