Cities and Towns in Switzerland County, Indiana

Founded on Oct 1, 1814, Switzerland County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Switzerland County was formed from Dearborn and Jefferson County. The city of Vevay is the county seat. With FIPS code of 155, Switzerland County has a population of 9,790 and area of 221 square miles (572 km²).

List of all cities in Switzerland County, IN alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bennington, IN 47011 812
Braytown, IN 47043 812
East Enterprise, IN 47019 812
Florence, IN 47020 812
Patriot, IN 47038 812
Vevay, IN 47043 812

Major Cities and Towns in Switzerland County, Indiana

Vevay

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 1.55 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,600 (2023)
  • Zip Code: 47043
  • Latitude: 38.7478° N
  • Longitude: 85.0672° W

Location and History

Vevay, the county seat of Switzerland County, is situated along the Ohio River in southeastern Indiana. The town was founded in 1802 by Swiss immigrants, many of whom were experienced in winemaking. Vevay is famous for establishing one of the first successful commercial wineries in the United States, a heritage celebrated today with the annual Swiss Wine Festival. The town’s riverside location made it an early hub for trade and transportation, especially in the 19th century when riverboats were common. Over the years, Vevay evolved into a quiet, historic town with a rich cultural background.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Vevay is home to Switzerland County High School and Switzerland County Elementary School, serving as the main educational institutions in the area. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Switzerland County Courthouse, a historic building dating back to 1864, known for its classic architectural style. The town also boasts the Historic Hoosier Theater, which offers performances and events, and the Switzerland County Historical Museum, showcasing the area’s Swiss heritage. Along the Ohio River, the Paul Ogle Riverfront Park provides a scenic spot for residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.

Patriot

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.26 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 200 (2023)
  • Zip Code: 47038
  • Latitude: 38.8411° N
  • Longitude: 84.8300° W

Location and History

Patriot, located in northeastern Switzerland County along the Ohio River, is a small town with a rich history. Established in 1812, the town was originally named “Troy,” but was later changed to Patriot in honor of the patriotic spirit of its citizens during the War of 1812. Patriot’s riverfront location made it a key transportation and trading center in its early years, though it remained small in population. In 1848, much of the town was destroyed by a devastating fire, but it was rebuilt and continues to be a charming rural community today.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Patriot students attend schools within the Switzerland County School Corporation, including Switzerland County High School and Switzerland County Elementary School, located in nearby Vevay. The town’s main landmarks are its historic homes and buildings, which reflect its 19th-century origins. Patriot holds an annual Fourth of July celebration, where the entire town gathers to celebrate its namesake and national pride. Additionally, the Ohio River Scenic Byway runs through Patriot, providing beautiful river views and access to the riverfront, which is popular for fishing, boating, and picnicking.

East Enterprise

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: Unincorporated community
  • Population: Approximately 350 (2023, estimated)
  • Zip Code: 47019
  • Latitude: 38.8314° N
  • Longitude: 85.0597° W

Location and History

East Enterprise is a small unincorporated community in Switzerland County, located a few miles inland from the Ohio River. The town developed in the 19th century as a rural farming settlement. It remains a quiet, close-knit community that is spread out across the surrounding countryside. Despite its small size, East Enterprise plays an important role in the local agricultural economy, with many residents engaged in farming and livestock activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

East Enterprise is part of the Switzerland County School Corporation, with most students attending schools in nearby Vevay, including Switzerland County High School. The community’s main landmark is the East Enterprise Volunteer Fire Department, which is a vital part of local life and organizes community events. Just outside East Enterprise lies the Belterra Casino Resort, one of the largest employers in the area, which draws visitors from across the region and offers entertainment and recreation. The town’s rural setting and agricultural landscapes also make it a peaceful retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Florence

Area, Population, and Coordinates

  • Area: Unincorporated community
  • Population: Approximately 80 (2023, estimated)
  • Zip Code: 47020
  • Latitude: 38.7837° N
  • Longitude: 84.9325° W

Location and History

Florence is a small, unincorporated community located along the Ohio River in Switzerland County, about 6 miles west of Vevay. It was settled in the early 19th century and historically served as a riverport, benefiting from its riverside location. Although the town never grew large, it remained an important part of the local economy due to its proximity to the Ohio River. Today, Florence is primarily a quiet residential area, known for its scenic river views and peaceful atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Florence students attend schools in the nearby towns of Vevay and Patriot as part of the Switzerland County School Corporation. One of the major landmarks near Florence is the Markland Dam, located just outside the community, which helps manage water levels along the Ohio River and generates hydroelectric power. Additionally, the community is close to Belterra Casino Resort, which offers entertainment, dining, and golf, making it a popular destination for tourists. The peaceful environment and river access make Florence a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those interested in boating and fishing.