Cities and Towns in Scott County, Mississippi
Founded in 1833, Scott County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Scott County was formed from Covington, Jones and Rankin Counties. The city of Forest is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Scott County has a population of 27,598 and area of 609 square miles (1,577 km²).
List of all cities in Scott County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Forest, MS | 39074 | 601/769 |
| Harperville, MS | 39080 | 601/769 |
| Hillsboro, MS | 39087 | 601/769 |
| Lake, MS | 39092 | 601/769 |
| Ludlow, MS | 39098 | 601/769 |
| Morton, MS | 39117 | 601/769 |
| Polkville, MS | 39117 | 601/769 |
| Pulaski, MS | 39152 | 601/769 |
| Sebastopol, MS | 39359 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Scott County, Mississippi
Scott County, located in central Mississippi, is characterized by its rural landscape, historical significance, and tight-knit communities. The county is home to a mix of small towns, agricultural roots, and a rich cultural heritage. Below are the major cities and towns in Scott County, Mississippi, detailing their geography, history, schools, and landmarks.
Forest
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 10.3 square miles
- Population: 5,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39074
- Latitude: 32.3450° N
- Longitude: 89.3589° W
Location and History
Forest is the largest city in Scott County and serves as its county seat. The city’s history dates back to the early 19th century, when it was initially known as a small farming community. Forest was formally incorporated in 1843, named after the dense forests that surrounded the area, and became a key stop on the railroad during the 19th century, contributing to its growth. The city played a significant role during the cotton boom in Mississippi, with the fertile soil of the region making it ideal for large plantations. In the 20th century, Forest continued to develop as a regional center for agriculture and commerce, with industries such as timber, textiles, and food production. The city also saw its share of economic and social changes, particularly in the post-Civil War and Civil Rights eras. Forest remains an important hub for Scott County, offering a mix of rural and urban elements while still maintaining its historical Southern charm.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Forest is served by the Forest Municipal School District, which includes Forest High School and Forest Middle School. These schools are central to the education system in the city, supporting students in a range of academic and extracurricular activities. Among the significant landmarks in Forest is the Scott County Courthouse, which is located in the heart of downtown Forest and serves as the center of county government. The Forest City Park is another key site, providing recreational opportunities for residents, including playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. Forest is also home to the Forest Depot, a historic railroad station that reflects the city’s important role in regional transportation. In addition, the city hosts annual events like The Forest Fall Festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural history and community spirit. Forest’s combination of historic architecture, educational institutions, and community events makes it a vibrant and welcoming city in Scott County.
Morton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.4 square miles
- Population: 3,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39117
- Latitude: 32.4733° N
- Longitude: 89.5399° W
Location and History
Morton is located in the eastern part of Scott County and was originally founded in the late 19th century. The town is named after its founder, J. M. Morton, and began to develop as a railroad town due to its proximity to the Illinois Central Railroad, which connected it to larger regional markets. Morton’s economy was historically centered around agriculture, especially cotton, as well as timber production. Like many towns in the Mississippi Delta, Morton was a key player in the cotton trade and played an important role in the early 20th century. The town is also noted for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, where African American leaders worked to bring about change in the community. In the latter half of the 20th century, Morton continued to thrive, expanding its businesses, schools, and services while maintaining its rural charm. Today, Morton is known for its strong community values, family-oriented environment, and historical significance as part of Scott County.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Morton is served by the Morton School District, which includes Morton High School, a key educational institution in the town, providing students with quality education and extracurricular activities. One of the town’s notable landmarks is the Morton Community Center, which hosts local events, gatherings, and festivals throughout the year. Morton City Park offers recreational space for outdoor activities, including playgrounds, sports fields, and walking areas, making it a popular spot for families. The Morton Depot is a historical landmark that marks the town’s railroad heritage, with its preserved building offering a glimpse into Morton’s past as a railroad stop. The town also hosts the Morton Harvest Festival, an annual celebration that brings together residents and visitors for a day of music, food, and entertainment, celebrating Morton’s agricultural roots. Morton’s combination of rich history, strong community spirit, and local events makes it an integral part of Scott County.
Pulaski
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: 500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39152
- Latitude: 32.2321° N
- Longitude: 89.4911° W
Location and History
Pulaski is a small rural town located in the western part of Scott County. The town was settled in the early 1800s and grew in importance as a center for agriculture, primarily cotton and timber production. Like many small towns in the Mississippi Delta, Pulaski experienced growth and development during the railroad era, although it remained relatively small compared to neighboring towns like Forest. Pulaski was incorporated in 1852 and has remained a quiet, rural community with deep agricultural ties. The town has seen its population decline in recent decades as many rural communities in Mississippi have faced economic challenges, but Pulaski continues to retain its historical charm and sense of community. The town’s rich history in agriculture and its central location in Scott County make it an important part of the region’s rural identity.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Pulaski is part of the Scott County School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Forest. The town does not have many commercial landmarks, but it is home to Pulaski Park, which offers recreational opportunities for the small town’s residents. The town’s main attractions are its rural landscape and its historical buildings, many of which are still standing and serve as reminders of Pulaski’s agricultural and railroad history. Pulaski Baptist Church is a prominent place of worship in the town and a gathering spot for residents. While Pulaski is small, it is known for its friendly community, where neighbors know each other by name and the rural atmosphere persists. The town’s slower pace of life and historical connections to the surrounding Delta communities make it an important part of Scott County’s overall makeup.
Other Communities in Scott County
In addition to Forest, Morton, and Pulaski, Scott County includes smaller communities like Sylvarena, Harperville, and Lawrence. These smaller towns are predominantly rural, with agriculture still playing a central role in their economies. Sylvarena is home to the Sylvarena Cemetery, which holds historical significance for the local families, while Harperville is known for its proximity to the Bienville National Forest, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities. Lawrence is a quiet community that offers a glimpse into the past of Scott County, with historic buildings and a rich rural tradition.