Cities and Towns in Prince Edward County, Virginia
Founded in 1754, Prince Edward County is one of 95 counties in the state of Virginia. Historically, Prince Edward County was formed from Amelia County. The city of Farmville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 147, Prince Edward County has a population of 21,932 and area of 353 square miles (914 km²).
List of all cities in Prince Edward County, VA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Farmville, VA | 23901 | 434 |
| 23909 | 434 | |
| 23943 | 434 | |
| Green Bay, VA | 23942 | 434 |
| Hampden Sydney, VA | 23943 | 434 |
| Meherrin, VA | 23954 | 434 |
| Prospect, VA | 23960 | 434 |
| Rice, VA | 23966 | 434 |
Major Cities and Towns in Prince Edward County, Virginia
Farmville
- Area: Approximately 7.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 8,200
- Zip Codes: 23901, 23909
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.3021° N, 78.3919° W
Location and History
Farmville is the largest town and the county seat of Prince Edward County, extending partially into Cumberland County. Founded in 1798, it developed as a hub for tobacco and agricultural trade due to its strategic location along the Appomattox River. Farmville played a significant role during the Civil War and later became a focal point in the Civil Rights Movement, notably with the student-led strike at Robert Russa Moton High School in 1951, which contributed to the landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education. Today, Farmville blends its rich history with modern amenities, serving as a center for education, commerce, and culture in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Farmville is home to Longwood University, a public institution founded in 1839, and Hampden-Sydney College is located nearby. The town is served by Prince Edward County Public Schools, including Prince Edward County High School. Notable landmarks include the Robert Russa Moton Museum, a National Historic Landmark dedicated to the Civil Rights Movement, and the High Bridge Trail State Park, which features the historic High Bridge over the Appomattox River. The downtown area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues, contributing to Farmville’s vibrant community life.
Hampden Sydney
- Area: Unincorporated community (campus area approximately 1.2 square miles)
- Population: Approximately 1,500
- Zip Codes: 23943
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.2424° N, 78.4597° W
Location and History
Hampden Sydney is an unincorporated community located about eight miles southwest of Farmville. It is centered around Hampden-Sydney College, one of the oldest institutions of higher education in the United States, founded in 1775. The college has a storied history, with ties to prominent figures such as Patrick Henry and James Madison. The community developed alongside the college, maintaining a close-knit atmosphere that values tradition and academic excellence. The area’s historical significance and scenic campus contribute to its unique character within Prince Edward County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The primary institution is Hampden-Sydney College, a private men’s liberal arts college known for its rigorous academics and honor code. While there are no public schools within Hampden Sydney, students from the area attend schools in the Prince Edward County Public Schools system. Landmarks include historic campus buildings such as Cushing Hall, the oldest four-story dormitory still in use in the United States, and the Atkinson Museum, which showcases the college’s history and collections. The college’s campus, with its Georgian architecture and wooded surroundings, is a point of pride and interest for residents and visitors alike.
Meherrin
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 700
- Zip Codes: 23954
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.1002° N, 78.5028° W
Location and History
Meherrin is a small unincorporated community located in the southern part of Prince Edward County, extending into Lunenburg County. Named after the Meherrin Indian Tribe, the area was historically a railroad town along the Norfolk and Western Railway. Meherrin is known locally as the “Home of the World’s Shortest Fourth of July Parade,” a unique tradition that reflects the community’s close-knit and festive spirit. The rural setting and agricultural backdrop contribute to Meherrin’s charm and provide a glimpse into the county’s historical reliance on farming and transportation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Residents of Meherrin attend schools within the Prince Edward County Public Schools system, including Prince Edward County High School. While Meherrin does not have major educational institutions within its boundaries, it is within driving distance of Longwood University and Hampden-Sydney College. Landmarks in the area include the Meherrin Volunteer Fire Department, which often serves as a center for community events, and local churches that play significant roles in community life. The annual Fourth of July parade and celebration are hallmark events, drawing visitors and fostering community pride.
Rice
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 2,200
- Zip Codes: 23966
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.2760° N, 78.3308° W
Location and History
Rice is an unincorporated community situated east of Farmville along U.S. Route 460. Historically, Rice served as a railroad stop and was the site of significant Civil War activity, including the Battle of Rice’s Depot in April 1865, shortly before the surrender at Appomattox. The community’s location near the Appomattox River and the High Bridge has been strategic throughout its history. Today, Rice maintains its rural character while benefiting from its proximity to Farmville and major transportation routes.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students in Rice attend Prince Edward County Public Schools, such as Prince Edward County High School. A notable landmark is the High Bridge Trail State Park, which passes near Rice and features the historic High Bridge, one of the longest recreational bridges in the United States, offering hiking, biking, and equestrian trails with scenic views. The Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park is also nearby, providing historical insights and outdoor activities. These sites highlight Rice’s connection to significant historical events and its appeal to outdoor enthusiasts.
Prospect
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 500
- Zip Codes: 23960
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.3010° N, 78.5470° W
Location and History
Prospect is a small unincorporated community located west of Farmville along U.S. Route 460. Established in the 1850s as a stop on the Southside Railroad, Prospect played a role in transportation and trade for the region. The area was involved in Civil War activities due to its railroad significance. Today, Prospect is a quiet rural community, characterized by farmland, forests, and a peaceful atmosphere. Its location along the former railroad line, now converted into a state park trail, connects it to the broader historical and recreational landscape of Prince Edward County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Residents of Prospect attend schools within the Prince Edward County Public Schools system. The High Bridge Trail State Park runs through Prospect, offering access to over 30 miles of trail suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The Prospect Depot, a restored historic train station, serves as a trailhead and community gathering spot. The area’s natural surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciation of the county’s rural heritage.
Pamplin City
- Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 220 (portion within Prince Edward County)
- Zip Codes: 23958
- Latitude and Longitude: 37.2632° N, 78.6828° W
Location and History
Pamplin City is a small town that straddles the border of Appomattox and Prince Edward counties. Founded in the late 19th century, it grew as a center for the clay pipe manufacturing industry, at one time being known as the “Clay Pipe Capital of the World.” The town’s development was closely tied to the Norfolk and Western Railway, which facilitated the transportation of goods. Although much of Pamplin City lies within Appomattox County, its presence in Prince Edward County contributes to the shared history and economy of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students from the Prince Edward County side of Pamplin City attend schools within the Prince Edward County Public Schools system. Landmarks include the Pamplin Depot, part of the High Bridge Trail State Park, serving as a trailhead and historical site. The Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest is located nearby, offering outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, hunting, and wildlife observation. The town’s historical significance in manufacturing and its quaint downtown area reflect the industrial heritage and rural charm of the region.
