Cities and Towns in Smith County, Tennessee

Founded in 1799, Smith County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Smith County was formed from Sumner County and Indian lands. The city of Carthage is the county seat. With FIPS code of 159, Smith County has a population of 20,172 and area of 314 square miles (813 km²).

List of all cities in Smith County, TN alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Brush Creek, TN 38547 615
Carthage, TN 37030 615
Chestnut Mound, TN 38552 615
Defeated, TN 37030 615
Dixon Springs, TN 37057 615
Elmwood, TN 38560 615
Gordonsville, TN 38563 615
Hickman, TN 38567 615
Lancaster, TN 38569 615
Mc Clures Bend, TN 37030 615
New Middleton, TN 38563 615
Pleasant Shade, TN 37145 615
Riddleton, TN 37151 615

Major Cities and Towns in Smith County, Tennessee

Carthage, Tennessee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.5 square miles
  • Population (2020 Census): 2,573
  • Zip Code: 37030
  • Latitude: 36.2329° N
  • Longitude: 85.9877° W

City Location and History

Carthage is the county seat of Smith County, Tennessee, and is situated along the Cumberland River. It was established in 1806 and named after the ancient city of Carthage, as a reflection of its desired importance and future growth. Carthage played an important role in the early settlement of Middle Tennessee, primarily serving as a trading and agricultural hub. The town’s location along the river made it a crucial point for transportation, particularly in the 19th century. During the Civil War, Carthage was a site of several skirmishes, though it was never the scene of a major battle. The town saw steady growth in the 19th and early 20th centuries, with industries such as sawmills, brickworks, and tobacco processing becoming staples of the local economy. Today, Carthage remains a small yet vibrant community, known for its historic courthouse, charming downtown district, and proximity to popular recreational areas such as Cordell Hull Lake and Defeated Creek Park. While the town has remained relatively small in size, its historical significance and central location in the county make it a key part of Smith County’s identity.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carthage is served by the Smith County School District, which includes schools such as Carthage Elementary School, Smith County Middle School, and Smith County High School. One of Carthage’s most significant landmarks is the Smith County Courthouse, which dates back to the 19th century and is a prominent feature in the town’s downtown area. Another landmark is the Cordell Hull Lake, which offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Defeated Creek Park is another popular location for outdoor enthusiasts, offering campgrounds and access to the lake. Carthage’s Historic Downtown is home to unique shops, restaurants, and a local museum that highlights the town’s history. The Carthage Depot (formerly a railroad station) has been preserved and serves as a reminder of the town’s role in transportation history. Carthage is also known for hosting the Smith County Fair, an annual event that brings the community together with rides, games, and agricultural exhibits. Its combination of history, nature, and community events makes Carthage a focal point of Smith County.


Gordonsville, Tennessee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.6 square miles
  • Population (2020 Census): 1,497
  • Zip Code: 38563
  • Latitude: 36.0149° N
  • Longitude: 85.9345° W

City Location and History

Gordonsville is located in the eastern part of Smith County, Tennessee, and is one of the county’s smaller towns. It was founded in the early 19th century and named after Gordon, a local landowner. Gordonsville was originally established as a rural settlement and grew slowly as an agricultural community. The town’s economy was traditionally based on farming, particularly tobacco, corn, and livestock. Gordonsville also served as a transportation center with the construction of the railroad line in the mid-1800s, helping to connect it with larger cities in Middle Tennessee. During the Civil War, Gordonsville was a strategic location for troop movements and supplies, though it was not the site of any major battles. The town remained a quiet, agricultural center for much of the 20th century, but in recent decades, it has seen gradual growth due to its proximity to larger cities like Nashville. Gordonsville continues to maintain its small-town character while providing modern amenities and services to its residents. Its position along the Cumberland River and close proximity to recreational areas makes it a popular choice for families seeking a rural lifestyle with access to outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gordonsville is part of the Smith County School District, and nearby schools include Gordonsville High School, Gordonsville Elementary School, and Smith County High School. The town’s main landmark is the Gordonsville Depot, which was once an important railroad station for the town. The depot has been preserved and now serves as a symbol of Gordonsville’s historical role in transportation. Another notable site is the Cumberland River, which offers recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. Granville Heritage Days is an annual event held in nearby Granville, but it attracts many Gordonsville residents as well, celebrating the region’s history, including the days when river traffic was vital to the area’s economy. Edgar Evins State Park, just a short drive from Gordonsville, is another important recreational landmark. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a marina on Center Hill Lake, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Gordonsville’s quiet, rural charm, combined with its access to local landmarks and outdoor activities, makes it a peaceful town for families and nature lovers.


Lancaster, Tennessee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.4 square miles
  • Population (2020 Census): 324
  • Zip Code: 38569
  • Latitude: 36.1478° N
  • Longitude: 85.9695° W

City Location and History

Lancaster is located in the northern part of Smith County, Tennessee, near the Cumberland River. The town was established in the early 19th century, and like many towns in Tennessee, it grew as an agricultural community. The area surrounding Lancaster was primarily used for farming, with tobacco and corn as the major crops. Lancaster became a small but important center for local trade and commerce, with the establishment of a post office and a few businesses. Over the years, Lancaster has remained a small, quiet town that reflects the agricultural heritage of the region. While the town did not see the level of industrial or economic growth as other parts of the county, it has retained much of its rural charm and is considered a peaceful retreat for families seeking a quiet lifestyle. The town is also known for its proximity to Center Hill Lake, a popular recreational area for boating, fishing, and hiking, which has provided an additional source of local tourism. Lancaster is an excellent example of a small rural community in Tennessee that has managed to preserve its heritage while offering modern-day amenities to its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lancaster is part of the Smith County School District, with schools such as Lancaster Elementary School and Smith County High School located nearby. One of the key landmarks in the area is Center Hill Lake, which is known for its clear waters, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities. Lancaster is also within close proximity to Edgar Evins State Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, camping, and fishing. The Cumberland River is another key feature of the town, offering opportunities for boating and fishing. For those interested in local history, Granville’s Historic District, located just a short drive away, offers a glimpse into the region’s past with well-preserved 19th-century buildings and annual cultural events. Lancaster’s quiet rural atmosphere combined with its outdoor recreational opportunities makes it an ideal location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle close to nature. The town’s proximity to other local landmarks and parks provides a variety of activities for families and outdoor enthusiasts.