SHOUTOUT SEPTEMBER 2026
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BUFORD BUFORD PUSSER PUSSER
A Legend A Legend of of Southwest Southwest Tennessee Tennessee Inside: Sunset Valley Farms Offers Family Fun Through Every Season
SMALL TOWNS BIG STORIES
Note from the Director Sunset Valley Farms Offers Family Fun Through Every Season Drone Pilots Take on Tennessee’s Tallest Metal Sculpture at Mindfield Meet 7.0 Buford Pusser - A Legend of Southwest Tennessee UPCOMING EVENTS
From the Executive Director Fall - A Season of Stories, Adventure & Discovery This September, I find myself reflecting on just how much there is to discover right here in Southwest Tennessee. Our eight counties are filled with incredible stories, welcoming communities, and experiences that deserve to be shared with travelers near and far. One of the ways we are doing just that is through our Appetite for Adventure campaign. This campaign is about putting Southwest Tennessee in front of people who may not yet realize how close and accessible we are. So, we strategically focused our digital marketing efforts on Florence and Huntsville, AL, and Corinth and Oxford, MS, four key drive markets with travelers who are within easy reach of our region. Through Facebook, Instagram and Threads, we have been able to introduce these audiences to YOU, and the authentic experiences waiting for them in Southwest Tennessee. And the results are exciting! Our campaign generated 49,600 impressions and 1,242 engagements, for a 2.5% engagement rate per impression. Those numbers represent more than clicks and statistics— they represent thousands of opportunities to inspire someone to take a closer look at Southwest TN, plan a day trip, book a weekend getaway, try a local restaurant or explore one of our communities. This is exactly what regional tourism marketing is designed to do: put our destinations in front of the right people, in the right markets, at the right time. And while we are inviting visitors to discover Southwest TN, we also want to invite more of our own to be part of the story. Our STRONGER TOGETHER Membership Campaign is underway, and we need your help! If you know a tourism-related business in your county that should be part of Southwest Tennessee Tourism, invite them to join us. The strength of our association—and the strength of our regional voice—depends on having as many of our tourism partners as possible working together. And, of course, we couldn’t have a campaign without a little extra incentive! One lucky member who participates in the campaign will win a fabulous STRONGER TOGETHER prize package. It is a great way to say thank you for helping us grow our membership and strengthen tourism across all eight counties. As we head into fall, and I pull out my favorite sweaters, we have even more opportunities to invite visitors to discover our region. From festivals and football to fall foliage, outdoor adventures, local flavors and small-town events, Southwest Tennessee comes alive this time of year. I can’t close my message without first saying CONGRATULATIONS to our Southwest Tennessee winners at the 2026 TN State Fair Travel TN Exhibit! 1st Place – Hardeman County 3rd Place – Henderson County Thank you to each of you for telling the Southwest Tennessee story through your creative and amazing displays. You are all winners in my eyes! So proud of the talent, passion and pride you bring to showcasing our region! I can’t wait to see what the next season brings!
❤️
All my best! Marty Marbry Executive Director
Sunset Valley Farms Offers Family Fun Through Every Season
Located in Huron, Tennessee, just outside Jackson and Henderson, Sunset Valley Farms has become a seasonal destination where agriculture, family fun and West Tennessee traditions come together. Founded in 2019 by Brian and Melissa Muetze, Sunset Valley Farms began with a simple mission—to share their love of agriculture while creating a place where families could spend time together and make lasting memories. The farm is located on the site of a former dirt race track that has been transformed into a destination filled with seasonal activities, farm adventures and the beautiful sunsets that helped inspire its name. Throughout the year, Sunset Valley Farms changes with the seasons, offering special experiences for Easter, fall and Christmas. With more than 20 attractions available, families can enjoy everything from pedal cars and farm animals to games, slides and seasonal activities. Continue reading.........
Fall Festival around the corner Autumn brings one of the biggest celebrations of the year to Sunset Valley Farms as the farm welcomes visitors for its annual Fall Festival, held weekends September 12 through November 1, 2026. The festival combines classic fall traditions with a full day of outdoor family entertainment. One of its signature attractions is the farm's interactive corn maze, designed to offer a fun challenge for both children and adults. The farm grows approximately 10 acres of sweet corn each summer, helping set the stage for the arrival of its fall season. But finding your way through the maze is only part of the experience. Families can race one another on pedal cars, test their skills at Farmer's Basketball, visit farm animals, explore seasonal photo opportunities and take on other attractions located throughout the farm. For those looking for a little more excitement, the Mega Ride N Slide adds another adventure to the day. Riders must be at least 42 inches tall and must ride individually. Of course, no fall trip to the farm would be complete without pumpkins. Visitors can pick their own pumpkin, while sunflower fields and seasonal settings provide colorful backdrops for family photographs and fall memories. The sights of autumn are accompanied by the tastes and smells of the season. Visitors can stop by the concessions area for food and fall treats, including fresh kettle corn, before heading back out to enjoy the farm's attractions. Continue reading....................
For families who want to return more than once, Sunset Valley Farms offers season passes providing unlimited visits during the applicable season. Fall options include a general admission pass as well as an Ultimate Fun Pass that includes the Mega Ride N Slide. The farm also offers Platinum options covering seasonal visits from Easter through December, with some exclusions for special events and school field trips. More than simply a collection of attractions, the Fall Festival gives families an opportunity to experience autumn in a rural West Tennessee setting—walking through a corn maze, choosing a pumpkin, sharing a fall treat, racing a pedal car or simply enjoying the crisp air and open spaces. When fall gives way to Christmas, Sunset Valley Farms transforms again. The farm's Christmas season features a drive-through light show, Christmas music, visits with Santa, holiday treats and a beautifully lit playground. Christmas at the Farm is scheduled for November 27 through December 23, 2026. Whether it's getting lost in the corn maze, finding the perfect pumpkin, enjoying Christmas lights or simply watching another West Tennessee sunset, Sunset Valley Farms has created a place centered on a simple combination—fun, family and farm adventures. Sunset Valley Farms is located at 1190 Highway 200 in Huron, Tennessee. Hours vary by season and event, and tickets are available online and at the gate. For schedules, tickets and additional information, visit Sunset Valley Farms.
DRONE PILOTS TAKE ON TENNESSEE’S TALLEST METAL SCULPTURE AT MINDFIELD MEET 7.0
Billy Tripp’s iconic Mindfield once again became a destination for visitors from near and far as drone and remote control aircraft enthusiasts gathered for Mindfield Meet 7.0, held Aug. 21-23. The three-day gathering brought pilots, spectators and curious visitors together at the towering metal sculpture for a weekend that combined technology, aviation, art and live entertainment. Known as Tennessee’s tallest metal sculpture, the Mindfield provided a flying environment unlike virtually any other. Drone pilots maneuvered their aircraft through and around the sculpture’s maze of towers, steel beams and other obstacles, turning Tripp’s massive work of art into an aerial playground. The event welcomed everyone from experienced pilots to newcomers interested in learning more about the hobby. Spectators were also invited to explore the Mindfield and visit the flight deck, where they could watch live video feeds transmitted from the drones as pilots navigated the structure. Participants traveled considerable distances to take part in the gathering. Drone pilot Don Miller, for example, traveled from outside Tennessee after following fellow drone enthusiast Ken Heron and learning about the Mindfield event. For Tripp, the weekend brought together another of his interests with the monumental artwork he had spent decades creating. Tripp said that flying was simply something he enjoyed and had become a natural fit among the things he could choose to spend his time doing. Mindfield Meet 7.0 demonstrated another side of the landmark's appeal. Rather than simply standing back and viewing the sculpture, drone pilots interacted with its unusual architecture, flying between and around the massive pieces of steel while spectators experienced the structure from perspectives normally impossible to see. The result was a weekend where art, technology, creativity and community came together beneath — and above — one of West Tennessee's most recognizable works of art.
At an imposing 6 feet, 6 inches tall and weighing more than 250 pounds, Buford Pusser would have been a commanding figure even without the legend that eventually surrounded his name. More than half a century after his death, few names are as closely connected to Southwest Tennessee as that of the former McNairy County sheriff. His battles with organized crime along the Tennessee-Mississippi state line became the stuff of books, movies and television, transforming a rural West Tennessee lawman into an international symbol of a man willing to stand against corruption. But the complete story of Buford Pusser has always been more complicated than the Hollywood version.
BUFORD PUSSER A Southwest Tennessee Legend
Depending on whom you ask, Pusser was a hero, a villain, a fearless lawman, a deeply flawed man—or some combination of them all. Recent findings surrounding the 1967 death of his wife, Pauline, have added a sobering and controversial new chapter to his story. What cannot be disputed is this: Buford Pusser is one of the most historically significant and recognizable figures ever produced by Southwest Tennessee. COntinue reading..............
From McNairy County to Law Enforcement Buford Hayse Pusser was born Dec. 12, 1937, in McNairy County. After leaving Tennessee for a time, he pursued professional wrestling and became known as “Buford the Bull.” He married Pauline Mullins in 1959, and the couple eventually returned to McNairy County with their daughter, Dwana. Pusser entered law enforcement in the early 1960s and ultimately became sheriff of McNairy County in 1964. It was a turbulent time along the Tennessee-Mississippi border. Illegal whiskey operations, gambling and prostitution were part of the criminal activity associated with the notorious state line area. Pusser made attacking those operations a centerpiece of his tenure. According to the Tennessee Encyclopedia, during his first year as sheriff he raided 42 stills and arrested 75 moonshiners before expanding his efforts against gambling and prostitution. Continue reading........
His methods and personality helped build his reputation. Pusser wasn't the polished lawman Hollywood might have created from scratch. He was physically imposing, aggressive and seemingly willing to put himself directly in harm's way. And harm found him repeatedly. Accounts of Pusser's career credit him with surviving numerous shootings and stabbings. By age 32, according to the Tennessee Encyclopedia, he had been shot eight times, stabbed seven times and struck by a car driven by criminals. The stories became larger with every telling. Soon, Buford Pusser wasn't simply sheriff of McNairy County. He was becoming a legend. The Tragedy That Defined the Story For decades, the most tragic chapter of the Pusser story centered on the death of his wife. Continue reading.................
On Aug. 12, 1967, Pauline Pusser was killed by gunfire. Buford suffered a severe facial gunshot wound and survived after extensive medical treatment and reconstructive surgeries. For generations, the accepted story was that the couple had been ambushed by Pusser's enemies while responding to a call. That account became an essential part of the Buford Pusser legend and later the Walking Tall story. But nearly six decades later, authorities announced dramatically different findings. Following a renewed Tennessee Bureau of Investigation examination of the case, Pauline's body was exhumed in 2024 and an autopsy was performed. In August 2025, District Attorney General Mark Davidson and the TBI announced that investigators believed evidence contradicted Buford Pusser's account of the shooting. Authorities said the evidence would have provided probable cause to present a murder charge against Pusser to a grand jury had he still been alive. The 2024 autopsy officially classified Pauline's death as a homicide caused by a gunshot wound to the head. Those findings fundamentally changed the modern conversation surrounding Pusser. They do not erase his documented career as sheriff or the cultural phenomenon that grew from his life, but they require any modern telling of the story to acknowledge Pauline Pusser as more than a supporting character in the Buford Pusser legend. Her story is now an important part of understanding his. When Hollywood Came Calling Long before those recent revelations, Pusser's exploits had captured the imagination of Hollywood. The 1973 movie Walking Tall, starring Joe Don Baker, turned the Tennessee sheriff into a national folk hero. It portrayed a larger-than-life lawman taking on corruption and organized crime with determination—and famously, a big wooden stick. Continue reading............
Hollywood, of course, was Hollywood. The films were never documentaries, and the line separating Buford Pusser the man from Buford Pusser the movie character became increasingly difficult for audiences to distinguish. There was fact. There was folklore. And then there was Walking Tall. The original film was successful enough to spawn sequels, television adaptations and, decades later, a 2004 reimagining starring Dwayne Johnson that no longer used Pusser's name and moved the story away from Tennessee. Whatever liberties filmmakers took with his life, the impact was enormous. The story created an image of the rural Southern sheriff who refused to look the other way when confronted with corruption. District Attorney Davidson acknowledged in announcing the 2025 investigative findings that many law enforcement officers had been inspired to enter the profession because of Pusser's story. That may ultimately be one of the most enduring pieces of his legacy. The movies may have exaggerated the man, but the character they created inspired generations. The End of the Road Pusser's tenure as sheriff ended in 1970, but his celebrity continued to grow. Then, on Aug. 21, 1974, the Buford Pusser story came to an abrupt end. Pusser died in a one-car crash west of Adamsville at only 36 years old. Earlier that day, he had reached an agreement with Bing Crosby Productions to portray himself in a sequel to Walking Tall. His sudden death added yet another layer to the legend. Continue reading........
Like so many aspects of the Buford Pusser story, rumors and theories followed the crash. But the young sheriff whose life had already become a motion picture was gone. The legend was only beginning. A Story Southwest Tennessee Continues to Tell Today, the story remains firmly rooted in the place where it began. The Buford Pusser Home and Museum stands at 342 Pusser Street in Adamsville. The modest brick home contains original furnishings, photographs, automobiles, firearms and family memorabilia and offers visitors a tangible connection to the people and events behind Walking Tall. The annual Sheriff Buford Pusser Festival also continues. The 38th annual festival was held May 14– 16, 2026, in Adamsville, featuring the Walking Tall Bus Tour, concerts, carnival attractions, vendors and other activities. The continuation of both the museum and festival demonstrates something important about history: history does not always give us simple people. Sometimes it gives us complicated ones. Buford Pusser's legacy is unquestionably more complicated today than the one portrayed on movie screens during the 1970s. The findings concerning Pauline's death cannot responsibly be omitted from his story. Neither, however, can the historical significance of his tenure as sheriff, his battles against criminal enterprises or the extraordinary cultural influence of Walking Tall. The legend and the man are not necessarily the same thing. Perhaps they never were. For decades, Buford Pusser represented the idea of standing tall—of refusing to surrender to intimidation and of confronting wrongdoing regardless of the personal cost. That image traveled far beyond Adamsville, McNairy County and Tennessee. Yet history asks us to examine people in their entirety, not simply through the lens of legend. Hero to some. Villain to others. Lawman. Celebrity. Husband. Father. Movie inspiration. Controversial figure. Buford Pusser remains all of those things. And more than 50 years after his death, people are still debating his life, visiting his home, watching the movies, studying the history and traveling to the small Southwest Tennessee community where the story began. That alone demonstrates the extraordinary reach of his legacy. Buford Pusser is no longer simply the story of a sheriff who “walked tall.” He is part of the history, folklore, controversy and cultural identity of Southwest Tennessee—a story whose final interpretation is still being written.
Small Towns. Big Stories. Stronger Together. The Southwest Tennessee Tourism Association is growing—and we'd love for you to help us welcome even more communities, businesses, attractions, and tourism partners to our family! We're excited to launch our Small Towns. Big Stories. Stronger Together. Membership Campaign, and with it, the Stronger Together Sweepstakes! Our association is built on partnerships. Every new member brings fresh ideas, new connections, and another voice helping tell the incredible stories that make Southwest Tennessee such a special place to visit. The stronger our membership, the stronger our region becomes. The Challenge is Simple... Invite just one new member to join the Association. Whether it's a local business, attraction, restaurant, museum, festival, chamber, downtown organization, or community leader, your invitation can help grow our network and strengthen tourism across our eight counties.
Here's How It Works When a new member joins, they'll simply list your name as the referring member on their membership application. Each successful referral earns you one entry into the Stronger Together Sweepstakes. The more new members you recruit, the more chances you'll have to win!
What's the Prize?
This is what everyone wants to know. One lucky member will win a Southwest Tennessee Getaway Package filled with unique experiences, local favorites, and special surprises from across our region. We'll also recognize our Sweepstakes winner in Shout Out and celebrate everyone who helped grow our Association. Our goal is to welcome 50 new members to the Association by December 1, 2026. This campaign isn't just about increasing membership—it's about strengthening the voice of tourism across Southwest Tennessee. Together, we're creating new opportunities, building lasting partnerships, and ensuring that our small towns and big stories continue to inspire visitors for years to come.
So, who will you invite?
One conversation could lead to one new member so start the conversation today, extend the invitation— and together, we'll make our Association stronger than ever.
Small Towns. Big Stories. Stronger Together.
The Southwest Tourism Association spotlights McNairy County. McNairy County is a vital part of the Southwest Tennessee region, offering an authentic blend of history, music, outdoor adventure, arts, local flavor and legendary stories. Situated along the Mississippi state line at the crossroads of U.S. Highways 45 and 64, the county serves as a natural gateway for exploring West Tennessee. From the miles of trails, wetlands and scenic beauty of Big Hill Pond State Park to the fascinating Cretaceous history of Coon Creek Science Center, McNairy County gives travelers plenty of reasons to get off the highway and explore. Visitors can discover the legacy of famed Sheriff Buford Pusser, walk downtown Selmer’s Trail of Music Legends, experience the arts at the historic Latta Theater & Cultural Center, and encounter traditions such as handmade brooms and the uniquely regional slugburger. Festivals, live music, local restaurants, artisans and welcoming small towns including Selmer, Adamsville, Bethel Springs, Michie, Ramer and others keep that heritage alive throughout the year. Thank you McNairy County for being a vital part of Southwest Tennessee.
The 2026 Tennessee Vacation Guide is here! This year’s guide features the legendary Dolly Parton! This guide is shared with travelers around the world, and Southwest TN is featured. Be sure check us out on page 150. Order your FREE copy today: CLICK HERE!
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Visit Jackson has a pleothra of events coming up. Check out their event page to keep up with it all!
Reimagine Health Rediscover You
McNairy County
AG EVENT CENTER
AGRICULTURE, RODEOS, CONCERTS, & MORE! 851 High School Road, Selmer, TN
(731) 439-0866
Forty Cannons Winery, in Chester County, will be OPEN this growing season on the first Sunday of each month from Noon – 4pm, every month through October! Come on out, enjoy the beautiful vistas, unique smallbatch wines, and good company.
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