Pocahontas, Tennessee facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Pocahontas, Tennessee
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 Pocahontas, Tennessee
Location in Tennessee
Pocahontas, Tennessee
Location in the United States
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| Country | United States |
| State | Tennessee |
| County | Hardeman, McNairy |
| Area | |
| • Total | 2.05 sq mi (5.31 km2) |
| • Land | 2.05 sq mi (5.31 km2) |
| • Water | 0.00 sq mi (0.00 km2) |
| Elevation | 394 ft (120 m) |
| Population
(2020)
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| • Total | 176 |
| • Density | 85.77/sq mi (33.12/km2) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CDT) |
| ZIP code |
38061
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| Area code(s) | 731 |
| GNIS feature ID | 1297992 |
Pocahontas is a small community in Tennessee, United States. It is located in both Hardeman and McNairy counties. This area is known as an unincorporated community, which means it doesn't have its own local government like a city or town. It's also a census-designated place (CDP), which is an area the government defines for gathering population data.
Pocahontas is about 83 miles southeast of Memphis. It has its own ZIP code, which is 38061. A fun place nearby is Big Hill Pond State Park, where people can enjoy nature. As of 2020, about 176 people live in Pocahontas.
Contents
History of Pocahontas
The story of Pocahontas began a long time ago, in 1828. It started as a settlement called Ray's Bluff. This first location was special because it was where two rivers, the Hatchie and the Tuscumbia River, met.
Moving for Travel Routes
Over time, the community moved twice to be closer to important travel routes.
The Stagecoach Era
The first move happened when a new stagecoach line started operating in the area. A stagecoach was like a bus pulled by horses, used for travel and mail before cars and trains. To be closer to this important route, the settlers moved their village to a place called Matamora Hill. Before 1845, a large hotel and several homes were built there.
The Railroad Arrives
In 1848, the community moved again to its current location. This time, the reason was the new Memphis and Charleston Railroad line. This train track crossed the area about two miles north of Matamora Hill. Moving to the railroad line made it easier for people and goods to travel to and from Pocahontas.
Pocahontas During the Civil War
Pocahontas was also important during the American Civil War. It was the site of a battle known as the Battle of Davis Bridge. This battle was a part of the larger conflict that shaped American history.
