Cities and Towns in Washington County, Kentucky
Founded in 1792, Washington County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Washington County was formed from Jefferson County. The city of Springfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 229, Washington County has a population of 12,072 and area of 301 square miles (780 km²).
List of all cities in Washington County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Mackville, KY | 40040 | 859 |
| Maud, KY | 40069 | 859 |
| Saint Catharine, KY | 40061 | 859 |
| Springfield, KY | 40069 | 859 |
| Willisburg, KY | 40078 | 859 |
Major Cities and Towns in Washington County, Kentucky
Springfield
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 2.55 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,900 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40069
- Latitude: 37.6839° N
- Longitude: 85.2224° W
Location and History
Springfield, the county seat of Washington County, is located in the heart of central Kentucky. The town was founded in 1793 and named after the natural springs found in the area. Springfield’s strategic location made it a hub for settlers and traders traveling along the Wilderness Road during the westward expansion of the United States. It has maintained its small-town charm while offering modern amenities, making it a vital economic and cultural center for the region. During the 19th century, the area was an agricultural powerhouse, primarily producing tobacco and other crops. The city’s rich history includes connections to Abraham Lincoln, as his mother, Nancy Hanks Lincoln, was married nearby at the Washington County Courthouse.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Springfield is home to Washington County High School and St. Dominic School, which provide education for both secondary and elementary levels. The city boasts several historical landmarks, including the Lincoln Homestead State Park, where visitors can explore reconstructions of Abraham Lincoln’s ancestral homes. The Opera House on Main Street, a restored 19th-century venue, continues to host cultural events and performances. Springfield also serves as the gateway to the Maker’s Mark Distillery, a key stop on Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail.
Willisburg
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 275 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40078
- Latitude: 37.8119° N
- Longitude: 85.1229° W
Location and History
Willisburg is a small town situated in the northeastern part of Washington County, along the Willisburg Lake. Settled in the early 1800s, the town was originally a farming community, thriving on the region’s fertile soil. Over time, Willisburg grew into a small commercial center, providing goods and services to the surrounding agricultural areas. It remained a quiet, close-knit community throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, Willisburg is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, particularly around Willisburg Lake, which attracts anglers, campers, and nature enthusiasts. The town’s quiet streets and historic buildings offer a glimpse into rural Kentucky life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Willisburg is served by Willisburg Elementary School, a key institution for local education. The town is also known for its proximity to Willisburg Lake, a major landmark and recreational site that offers fishing, boating, and camping activities. Nearby, the Central Kentucky Wildlife Management Area provides opportunities for hunting and hiking. Historic landmarks in the area include early 19th-century homesteads and churches, which reflect the deep agricultural and religious roots of the community. Additionally, Willisburg’s community center often hosts local events and festivals, helping to preserve the town’s close-knit community spirit.
Mackville
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 0.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40040
- Latitude: 37.7381° N
- Longitude: 85.0511° W
Location and History
Mackville is a tiny town located in the western part of Washington County, Kentucky. Established in the early 1800s, the town was named after Samuel Mack, one of its early settlers and a prominent figure in local development. Mackville was primarily an agricultural hub, with farming serving as the backbone of the local economy. Despite its small size, Mackville played a role in regional trade, as it was positioned near routes used by early settlers. The town’s quiet, rural setting has preserved much of its historic charm, making it a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience the slower pace of rural Kentucky life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mackville does not have its own high schools, but students typically attend Washington County Schools in nearby Springfield. However, the town is home to the Mackville Baptist Church and the Mackville Community Center, both of which are central to community life. A notable landmark is the Mackville War Memorial, which honors local veterans who have served in various U.S. conflicts. The surrounding countryside is filled with rolling hills and scenic farmland, making Mackville a picturesque location for those interested in rural Kentucky’s landscape and heritage.
Fredericktown
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 0.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40051
- Latitude: 37.7497° N
- Longitude: 85.1776° W
Location and History
Fredericktown is a small, unincorporated community located in Washington County. Founded in the early 19th century, the town was named after Frederick Hill, one of the region’s early settlers. Historically, Fredericktown was a farming community, and the town’s proximity to water sources, including Beech Fork River, made it a convenient location for early settlers. Although the town has never grown large, its agricultural roots run deep, with many of its residents still involved in farming and related industries. Fredericktown offers a peaceful, rural environment, with historic homes and buildings reflecting the region’s long history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fredericktown is located near several schools, with students attending Washington County schools in Springfield or Bardstown Independent Schools in neighboring Nelson County. A key landmark is the Fredericktown Bridge, a historic iron bridge that spans the Beech Fork River and serves as a symbol of the area’s rich past. The St. Rose Priory, located nearby, is a significant religious site with deep ties to the Dominican Order and early Catholic settlers in Kentucky. Fredericktown is also known for its scenic views and proximity to the Bourbon Trail, making it a quiet but culturally significant stop in central Kentucky.
