Bucksnort, Tennessee facts for kids

Bucksnort is the name of a natural spring located in Hickman County, Tennessee, United States. This spring is found along Sugar Creek. It is about 0.2 miles (0.32 km) downstream from where the South Fork of Sugar Creek joins the main creek. Bucksnort is also near Exit 152 on Interstate 40.

Bucksnort is not a town with official U.S. Census statistics, and it does not have its own post office. It is more of a historical location known for its spring and past activities.

What's in a Name?

How Did Bucksnort Get Its Name?

The unique name "Bucksnort" has an interesting story! According to the county historian, the name came from a merchant who once lived there. This merchant would sell a "snort" (a small amount) of something for a "buck" (a dollar). This simple way of doing business gave the area its memorable name.

A Look Back in Time

Lee's Old Furnace: An Early Industry

Near the spring, where Sugar Creek and its South Fork meet, there was once an important place called Lee's Furnace. It was later known as Lee's Old Furnace. This furnace was named after Samuel B. Lee. In 1830, Samuel Lee and James Gould bought a large area of land. They planned to use the land for mining and cutting down trees (timber production).

However, the furnace was soon closed down. The valuable minerals they hoped to find were located much farther away than they expected, closer to a place called Vernon. This made it too difficult to bring the minerals to the furnace.

Community Life and Businesses

Over the years, Bucksnort has been home to different activities. A Methodist church was started in the area sometime after 1856, showing that a community was growing there.

In 1967, a trout farm business was operating near the I-40 highway, just upstream from the spring. This farm was run by Mr. and Mrs. Joda Austin, providing fresh trout to the area.