Cities and Towns in Prentiss County, Mississippi

Founded in 1870, Prentiss County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Prentiss County was formed from Itawamba and Tishomingo Counties. The city of Booneville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Prentiss County has a population of 24,996 and area of 415 square miles (1,075 km²).

List of all cities in Prentiss County, MS alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Altitude, MS 38829 662
Blackland, MS 38829 662
Booneville, MS 38829 662
Burtons, MS 38829 662
Jumpertown, MS 38829 662
Marietta, MS 38856 662
New Site, MS 38859 662
Old Cairo, MS 38829 662
Osborne Creek, MS 38829 662
Pine Grove, MS 38829 662
Thrashers, MS 38829 662
Wheeler, MS 38880 662

Major Cities and Towns in Prentiss County, Mississippi

Prentiss County is located in the northeastern part of Mississippi, known for its rural charm, agricultural economy, and scenic beauty. The county is home to a variety of small towns, each with its own unique history and sense of community. Here, we explore the major cities and towns of Prentiss County, providing insights into their geography, history, schools, and landmarks.


Booneville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

  • Area: 7.8 square miles
  • Population: 8,300 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 38829
  • Latitude: 34.6670° N
  • Longitude: 88.5961° W

Location and History

Booneville is the largest city and the county seat of Prentiss County, located in the northern part of the county. The town was established in the early 19th century, with its official founding occurring in 1837. It was named after the famous frontiersman Daniel Boone, although there is no direct connection to the man himself. Booneville grew quickly with the establishment of a post office and a railroad station, which helped facilitate trade in the region. The city became an important center for the surrounding agricultural community, especially cotton farming. Over time, Booneville has evolved from a rural agricultural town into a city with more diverse industries, including manufacturing and retail. The town’s location near major highways and its status as a county seat have contributed to its steady growth over the years. Booneville also played a role in the Civil War, as it was strategically located in the region. Today, the city serves as a local commercial and cultural hub for Prentiss County.

Schools and Major Landmarks

Booneville is served by the Booneville School District, which includes Booneville High School, Booneville Middle School, and several elementary schools. These institutions provide strong academic programs and extracurricular activities, offering students opportunities for success both in the classroom and on the sports field. Major landmarks in Booneville include the Booneville City Park, which offers playgrounds, walking trails, and sports fields for outdoor recreation. The Prentiss County Courthouse is a historical building located in the center of town, reflecting the city’s status as the county seat. The Thompson Park is another local favorite, offering a beautiful natural setting for picnics and family gatherings. The Biggs Museum of Art, located in Booneville, offers cultural enrichment to locals and visitors alike. In addition to its parks and museums, Booneville is known for its annual events, including the Booneville Bluegrass Festival, which celebrates the area’s musical heritage and attracts visitors from across the region.


Baldwyn

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

  • Area: 3.2 square miles
  • Population: 1,800 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 38824
  • Latitude: 34.5089° N
  • Longitude: 88.7843° W

Location and History

Baldwyn is a small town located in the southwestern part of Prentiss County. It was incorporated in 1884 and named after the Baldwyn family, early settlers in the area. The town developed around the railroad, which played a significant role in transporting agricultural goods like cotton, timber, and livestock. During the early 20th century, Baldwyn saw growth due to its role as a regional shipping hub. However, as with many small towns in the South, Baldwyn faced economic challenges in the mid-20th century as agriculture shifted and industries modernized. Despite these challenges, the town has maintained its rural character and remains an important part of the county. Today, Baldwyn is a quiet, close-knit community, known for its small-town charm and friendly atmosphere. The town is also known for its proximity to the Tishomingo State Park, which offers hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities, making Baldwyn an ideal location for nature lovers.

Schools and Major Landmarks

Baldwyn is served by the Baldwyn School District, which includes Baldwyn High School, Baldwyn Middle School, and several elementary schools. The local school district has a strong academic reputation and offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities for students. Major landmarks in Baldwyn include the Baldwyn City Park, which features walking trails, a playground, and a sports complex, making it a popular spot for outdoor activities. Tishomingo State Park, just a short drive away, offers visitors hiking trails, a beautiful lake for fishing and canoeing, and historical sites dating back to Native American culture. Baldwyn also celebrates its heritage with events such as the Baldwyn Heritage Festival, which brings the community together to celebrate local history, music, and food. The town’s charming downtown area features several historical buildings and locally owned businesses, adding to the town’s unique character and offering visitors a glimpse into small-town Mississippi life.


Other Communities in Prentiss County

In addition to Booneville and Baldwyn, Prentiss County is home to smaller communities like Myrtle, Hickory Flat, and Blue Mountain, each contributing to the county’s rural charm and sense of community. Myrtle, for example, is a small unincorporated community known for its agricultural roots. Blue Mountain is home to Blue Mountain College, a private Christian liberal arts college that has been a key educational institution in the area for over a century. These communities, while less populous than Booneville and Baldwyn, play an essential role in preserving the county’s history and traditions.