Cities and Towns in Pontotoc County, Mississippi
Founded in 1836, Pontotoc County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Pontotoc County was formed from Monroe County. The city of Pontotoc is the county seat. With FIPS code of 115, Pontotoc County has a population of 31,445 and area of 497 square miles (1,287 km²).
List of all cities in Pontotoc County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Algoma, MS | 38820 | 662 |
| Buckhorn, MS | 38864 | 662 |
| Chiwapa, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Ecru, MS | 38841 | 662 |
| Friendship, MS | 38841 | 662 |
| Furrs, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Goodfood, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Hurricane, MS | 38871 | 662 |
| Nixon, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Plymouth, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Pontotoc, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Possum Trot, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Randolph, MS | 38864 | 662 |
| Rough Edge, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Sarepta, MS | 38864 | 662 |
| Sherman, MS | 38869 | 662 |
| Springville, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Thaxton, MS | 38871 | 662 |
| Troy, MS | 38863 | 662 |
| Zion, MS | 38863 | 662 |
Major Cities and Towns in Pontotoc County, Mississippi
Pontotoc County, located in the northern part of Mississippi, is a place where history and nature converge. Known for its fertile land, the county has a long agricultural history, particularly in cotton and poultry farming. With a mix of rural towns and the county seat, Pontotoc County offers a unique glimpse into Mississippi’s heartland. Below, we explore the major cities and towns in Pontotoc County, delving into their geography, history, schools, and landmarks.
Pontotoc
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 9.4 square miles
- Population: 1,700 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 38863
- Latitude: 34.2574° N
- Longitude: 88.2009° W
Location and History
Pontotoc is the county seat of Pontotoc County and the largest town in the area. Located in the northeastern part of Mississippi, it is strategically situated along the historic Natchez Trace Parkway, which played an essential role in the town’s development. The town’s name is derived from the Chickasaw word “Pontotoc,” meaning “rock,” referring to the large rock formations in the region. Settled in the early 1800s, Pontotoc grew rapidly during the 19th century due to its location as a crossroads for travel and trade. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further fueled the town’s growth, making it a key center for commerce and agriculture, particularly cotton and timber. Pontotoc has a rich Civil War history, with several skirmishes occurring in the area. Today, it remains a rural town with a strong sense of community and a deep connection to its agricultural roots. The town offers residents a peaceful, small-town atmosphere with access to the natural beauty of the surrounding Mississippi hills.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Pontotoc is served by the Pontotoc City School District, which includes Pontotoc High School, Pontotoc Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district provides a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, from sports teams to arts programs. The town is also home to Pontotoc Public Library, which serves as a hub for educational and cultural activities. Notable landmarks in Pontotoc include the Pontotoc County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government. The Natchez Trace Parkway, which runs nearby, offers scenic views and hiking opportunities. The Pontotoc Historical Museum showcases the town’s rich past, from its early settlement to its role in the Civil War. The town also celebrates its agricultural heritage with the Pontotoc County Fair, a local tradition that highlights the region’s farming culture and provides entertainment for the whole family.
Ecru
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.7 square miles
- Population: 1,100 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 38841
- Latitude: 34.2490° N
- Longitude: 88.5519° W
Location and History
Ecru is a small, unincorporated community located in the western part of Pontotoc County, near the border of Lafayette County. The town’s history is tied to agriculture and the expansion of the railroad system in the mid-1800s. It was named after the French word “ecru,” meaning “raw” or “unbleached,” likely referring to the town’s early role in the cotton industry. Like many towns in the region, Ecru developed due to its location along railroads, which were crucial for the transport of crops like cotton, soybeans, and corn. Ecru remains a small, rural community today, with a population that fluctuates but is generally stable. Its rural character is reflected in the predominance of agriculture and farming as the main occupation of its residents. The town is also closely tied to the history of the Mississippi Central Railroad, which passed through Ecru and contributed to its economic development. The town’s proximity to Tupelo, the largest city in the region, allows Ecru’s residents to access additional services and amenities while maintaining a rural lifestyle.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Ecru is served by the Pontotoc City School District, which provides educational options for local children. The town’s school-age children attend Pontotoc schools in the district, with access to programs in academics, athletics, and the arts. Ecru is a quieter, less populated town compared to others in Pontotoc County, and it doesn’t have many prominent landmarks, but it is surrounded by the natural beauty of North Mississippi. Local attractions include Timberlake Plantation, a historical farm and nature preserve located just outside of Ecru. Tupelo, only a short drive away, offers a wider range of cultural landmarks, including the Elvis Presley Birthplace, Tupelo National Battlefield, and various museums that reflect the history of the region. Residents and visitors in Ecru can enjoy a peaceful, rural lifestyle, with the opportunity to experience the charm of small-town Mississippi.
Other Communities in Pontotoc County
In addition to Pontotoc and Ecru, Pontotoc County is home to other smaller towns and rural communities, including Thaxton and Cherry Creek. These towns are primarily rural, with residents engaged in farming, timber production, and small businesses. Thaxton is a quiet town located in the central part of the county, while Cherry Creek is a smaller, unincorporated area known for its natural beauty and rural charm. Despite their size, these communities contribute to the agricultural and cultural identity of Pontotoc County.
