Paint township contains but two small towns within its limits. In 1849 the land where Walnut Run now stands was owned by Ephraim Freshour, and in that year he laid off some lots for a town and donated one lot for school purposes. Although the platting was done at a much earlier date, it was recorded on June 17, 1837. The town was first called Newport, and the postoffice always bore the name of Walnut Run. James Coberly erected the first house, in which he lived until his death. The second was built by Elias Forbes as a dwelling for himself. The first blacksmith was James Jewell, who was succeeded by Henry Roland. About 1851-52, John Coberly built a steam saw-mill in the town, with the old-style of upright saw, which, after several years' operation, was supplanted by a circular saw. Elias Forbes was the first wagonmaker. The first store was opened by Napoleon Moore, who erected a building and put in a general stock of goods in 1854. The postofiice was established in 1856-57, with James Gossard as postmaster. The village at present contains about one hundred inhabitants.
Florence, the other town in Paint township, is situated on the Pennsylvania railroad and is the only station on that road west of London in Madison county. It was never platted and at present consists of only a few houses, an elevator, a general store and the Pennsylvania railroad station and freight depot.