Cities and Towns in Phillips County, Arkansas

Founded on May 1,1820, Phillips County is one of 75 counties in the state of Arkansas. Historically, Phillips County was formed from Arkansas and Lawrence County. The city of Helena is the county seat. With FIPS code of 107, Phillips County has a population of 15,906 and area of 727.29 square miles (1,884 km²).

List of all cities in Phillips County, AR alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Barton, AR	72312	870
Crumrod, AR	72328	870
Elaine, AR	72333	870
Helena, AR	72342	870
Lambrook, AR	72353	870
Lexa, AR	72355	870
Marvell, AR	72366	870
Mellwood, AR	72367	870
Oneida, AR	72369	870
Poplar Grove, AR	72374	870
Turner, AR	72383	870
Wabash, AR	72389	870
West Helena, AR	72390	870

Major Cities and Towns in Phillips County, Arkansas

Helena-West Helena

• Area: 14.6 square miles
• Population: 10,032 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 72342, 72390
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.5309° N, 90.5883° W

Location and History

Helena-West Helena, the largest city and county seat of Phillips County, Arkansas, is located along the Mississippi River in the eastern part of the state. Formed by the merger of the cities of Helena and West Helena in 2006, the combined city has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1833. Helena became a significant river port and trade center due to its strategic location on the Mississippi River. The city played a crucial role during the Civil War, serving as a Union stronghold and the site of the Battle of Helena in 1863. Helena-West Helena has a deep connection to the blues music tradition, with the King Biscuit Time radio show, the longest-running daily American radio broadcast, originating here in 1941. Today, the city is known for its cultural heritage, historical significance, and the annual King Biscuit Blues Festival, which attracts visitors from around the world.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Helena-West Helena is served by the Helena-West Helena School District, which includes Central High School. The school is known for its strong academic programs and active participation in sports and extracurricular activities. Major landmarks in Helena-West Helena include the historic Cherry Street, which features numerous buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, reflecting the city’s rich history. The Delta Cultural Center celebrates the region’s heritage with exhibits on the blues, the Civil War, and the Mississippi Delta’s unique culture. Another significant site is Fort Curtis, a reconstructed Civil War fort that provides insights into the city’s role during the conflict. The Helena Confederate Cemetery and Freedom Park are also notable landmarks that highlight different aspects of the city’s complex history. The Mississippi River provides scenic views and recreational opportunities, contributing to the city’s appeal as a cultural and historical destination.

Marvell

• Area: 1.2 square miles
• Population: 855 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 72366
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.5568° N, 90.9112° W

Location and History

Marvell is a small town located in the western part of Phillips County, Arkansas. Established in the late 19th century, Marvell grew as an agricultural community, with cotton farming being the primary economic activity. The town developed as a result of the expansion of the railroad, which provided a critical transportation link for local farmers to ship their products to larger markets. Marvell’s economy has traditionally been centered around agriculture, and the town has maintained its rural character and close-knit community over the years. The history of Marvell is closely tied to the land, with many of its residents being descendants of the original farming families who settled in the area. Despite its small size, Marvell has a rich cultural heritage and a strong sense of community pride.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Marvell is part of the Marvell-Elaine School District, with students attending Marvell Academy or Marvell High School, known for its academic programs and involvement in community activities. Significant landmarks in Marvell include the historic Marvell Presbyterian Church, which has served as a spiritual and community center for over a century. The nearby White River National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and birdwatching, attracting visitors to the area. Marvell’s annual community events, such as local fairs and church gatherings, reflect the town’s agricultural roots and strong community bonds. The town’s rural charm, historic sites, and close-knit community make Marvell a quintessential example of small-town life in Phillips County.

Elaine

• Area: 0.7 square miles
• Population: 509 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 72333
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.3043° N, 90.8548° W

Location and History

Elaine is a small town located in the southern part of Phillips County, Arkansas, near the Mississippi River. The town was established in the early 20th century as a farming community, with its economy primarily based on cotton production. Elaine is perhaps most notably known for the tragic Elaine Massacre of 1919, one of the deadliest racial conflicts in U.S. history, where hundreds of African American sharecroppers were killed following an attempt to organize for better working conditions. This event left a deep scar on the community and is a significant part of the town’s history. Despite this dark chapter, Elaine has continued as a small agricultural town, with a strong emphasis on family and tradition. The town’s history is closely tied to the land and the people who have lived and worked there for generations.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Elaine is served by the Marvell-Elaine School District, with students attending schools in nearby Marvell. The town’s small size means that it has few commercial establishments, but it is surrounded by rich farmland that supports its agricultural economy. Significant landmarks in Elaine include the Elaine Museum and Civil Rights Center, which commemorates the events of 1919 and serves as a place for reflection and education. The nearby Mississippi River offers opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation. Elaine’s annual community gatherings, such as church events and local festivals, help to maintain the town’s close-knit atmosphere and honor its history. The town’s rural setting, historical significance, and strong community bonds make Elaine a unique and important part of Phillips County.

Lake View

• Area: 0.6 square miles
• Population: 376 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 72342
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.3576° N, 90.6951° W

Location and History

Lake View is a small town located in the eastern part of Phillips County, Arkansas, near the Mississippi River. The town was incorporated in 1967, making it one of the newer municipalities in the county. Lake View has a rich history tied to the African American experience in the Arkansas Delta, particularly through the establishment of the New Deal-era resettlement community, which was part of an effort to provide African American farmers with land and resources during the Great Depression. This initiative was aimed at promoting self-sufficiency and combating the economic hardships faced by sharecroppers in the region. Over the years, Lake View has remained a small, predominantly African American community with a strong sense of identity and pride in its heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lake View is part of the Barton-Lexa School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby areas. The town’s small size means that it has few commercial establishments, but it is rich in cultural history. Major landmarks in Lake View include the Delta Cultural Center’s satellite exhibits, which highlight the town’s role in the history of African American farming communities in the Delta. The town is also located near the Mississippi River, providing opportunities for fishing and other outdoor activities. Lake View’s annual community events, such as local church gatherings and festivals, help to maintain the town’s close-knit atmosphere and celebrate its unique heritage. The town’s historical significance, rural charm, and strong community bonds make Lake View an important part of Phillips County.

Lexa

• Area: 0.3 square miles
• Population: 209 (2020 Census)
• ZIP Codes: 72355
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.6018° N, 90.7593° W

Location and History

Lexa is a small town located in the northern part of Phillips County, Arkansas. The town was established in the late 19th century, primarily as a result of the expansion of the railroad, which brought new opportunities for growth and development. Lexa grew as a farming community, with cotton being the dominant crop. The town’s location along the railroad made it a key shipping point for agricultural products, and it developed a small commercial district to serve the needs of local farmers. Over the years, Lexa has remained a small, rural community with a strong emphasis on family and tradition. The town’s history is closely tied to its agricultural roots, and it continues to be a quiet, close-knit community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lexa is part of the Barton-Lexa School District, with students attending Barton High School and other nearby schools. The town itself is small, with a few local businesses and a rural setting that offers a peaceful lifestyle. Significant landmarks in Lexa include the historic railroad depot, which stands as a reminder of the town’s past as a key transportation hub. The town is also home to several churches that serve as community centers and reflect the town’s strong religious heritage. Lexa’s annual community events, such as local fairs and church gatherings, help maintain the town’s close-knit atmosphere and celebrate its agricultural heritage. The town’s rural charm, historic sites, and strong community bonds make Lexa a quintessential example of small-town life in Phillips County.

Map of Cities in Phillips County, AR