35 Facts About Buford Pusser

Early Life and Family

Buford Pusser's journey began in Adamsville, Tennessee, where his roots in law enforcement were planted early.

1. Buford Pusser was born to Helen and Carl Pusser, who was the police chief of Adamsville, Tennessee. This familial connection to law enforcement likely influenced Pusser's future career choices.
2. Pusser was a natural athlete, excelling in both football and basketball during his high school years. He stood at 6’6” and weighed 250 pounds, making him a physically imposing figure.
3. After graduating from high school, Pusser joined the U.S. Marines at the age of 18. However, his military service was cut short due to chronic asthma, which led to his medical discharge.

Wrestling Career and Marriage

Before becoming a law enforcement legend, Pusser had a stint in professional wrestling and started a family.

4. In 1957, Pusser moved to Chicago and entered the local wrestling scene. He earned the nickname “Buford the Bull” due to his massive size and strength. This wrestling career not only provided him with physical prowess but also helped him develop a reputation as a formidable opponent.
5. During his time in Chicago, Pusser met Pauline Mullins, whom he married on December 5, 1959. The couple had two children together, Diane and Mike, and later had a daughter named Dwana Aitoya Pusser.

Return to Adamsville and Law Enforcement Career

Pusser's return to Adamsville marked the beginning of his storied career in law enforcement.

6. In 1962, Pusser returned to his hometown of Adamsville with his family. He began his career in law enforcement as the Adamsville Chief of Police, a position previously held by his father.
7. Following the death of Sheriff James Dickey in an automobile accident, Pusser was elected as the youngest sheriff in Tennessee's history at the age of 27. This election marked the beginning of his crusade against organized crime.

War Against Organized Crime

Pusser's tenure as sheriff was defined by his relentless battle against crime syndicates.

8. Pusser's tenure as sheriff was marked by his relentless pursuit of the Dixie Mafia and the State Line Mob, two notorious organized crime groups operating along the Tennessee-Mississippi border. He famously used a large homemade bat to enforce justice, earning him the nickname "Walking Tall".
9. During his time as sheriff, Pusser was assaulted multiple times. He was stabbed seven times and shot eight times, yet he continued to fight against organized crime with unwavering determination.
10. On August 12, 1967, Pusser's wife, Pauline, was killed in an ambush meant for him. This tragic event further fueled his crusade against organized crime, leading to numerous confrontations and alleged retaliatory actions against his enemies.
11. Following the ambush, Pusser underwent extensive reconstructive surgeries to mend his battered face and crushed jaw. These surgeries left him permanently disfigured but did not deter him from his mission.

Notable Achievements and Recognition

Pusser's efforts did not go unnoticed, earning him accolades and a place in popular culture.

12. Pusser was known for his aggressive approach to law enforcement. He raided 42 stills and arrested 75 moonshiners in his first year as sheriff, significantly reducing the local illegal whiskey trade.
13. In addition to targeting moonshiners, Pusser also prosecuted prostitution rings and illegal gambling houses, further cleaning up the crime-ridden state line area.
14. In 1969, the Tennessee General Assembly recognized Pusser's accomplishments by making him an honorary sergeant of arms. This honor reflected his significant contributions to law enforcement and public safety.
15. Pusser's life story was adapted into several films, including "Walking Tall" (1973), "Walking Tall II" (1976), and "Walking Tall III: The Final Chapter" (1977). These films cemented his legendary status and inspired a new generation of law enforcement officers.

Legacy and Memorials

Pusser's legacy continues to be celebrated and remembered through various memorials and events.

16. The Buford Pusser Home and Museum, located in Adamsville, Tennessee, serves as a testament to his life and legacy. The museum features original furnishings, photos, cars, guns, and memorabilia of the Pusser family.
17. Each year, a festival is held in Adamsville to commemorate Pusser's life and contributions. The festival includes a bus tour narrated by Dwana Pusser, who continues to keep her father's legacy alive.
18. Pusser's methods of law enforcement were often unconventional and sometimes criticized. However, his bravery and dedication to justice have made him a revered figure in Tennessee and beyond. He remains an inspiration to many in the law enforcement community.
19. Despite the dangers and challenges he faced, Pusser remained committed to his family. His daughter, Dwana, continues to manage the museum and narrate the bus tour, ensuring that her father's story is preserved for future generations.

Tragic Death and Cultural Impact

Pusser's life ended abruptly, but his impact on culture and law enforcement endures.

20. On August 21, 1974, Pusser died in a car accident. The official cause of the crash remains unclear, with some speculating that it might have been orchestrated by organized crime. Regardless of the circumstances, his death marked the end of an era in law enforcement.
21. Pusser's funeral was attended by notable figures such as country singer George Jones and actor Joe Don Baker. Elvis Presley also paid his respects, highlighting the significant impact Pusser had on the community.
22. Pusser's life has inspired numerous books, songs, and films. His story serves as a testament to the power of one person to make a difference in the face of overwhelming adversity. He remains a cultural icon, symbolizing bravery and justice.

Physical Stature and Wrestling Tag

Pusser's physical presence and wrestling career added to his formidable reputation.

23. Pusser's physical stature was imposing. He stood at 6’6” and weighed 250 pounds, making him a formidable presence both on and off the wrestling mat.
24. During his wrestling career in Chicago, Pusser went by the tag "Buford the Bull," reflecting his massive size and strength.

Return to Adamsville and Law Enforcement Career

Pusser's return to Adamsville marked the beginning of his storied career in law enforcement.

25. Pusser met his wife, Pauline, while living in Chicago. They married in 1959 and later returned to Adamsville, where Pusser began his law enforcement career.
26. In 1962, Pusser returned to Adamsville with his family. He began his career as the Adamsville Chief of Police before eventually becoming the sheriff of McNairy County.

Assassination Attempt and Revenge

Pusser's life was marked by violence and his relentless pursuit of justice.

27. In 1967, Pusser was shot in the face during an assassination attempt. He survived the incident but was permanently disfigured.
28. Pusser's alleged revenge against his enemies, including the Dixie Mafia and the State Line Mob, remains a topic of speculation. While some believe he orchestrated the deaths of several individuals, this has never been confirmed.

Impact on Local Community and Honorary Recognition

Pusser's actions had a lasting impact on his community and earned him recognition.

29. Pusser's actions significantly impacted the local community. He reduced crime rates and improved public safety, earning him widespread respect and admiration from the citizens of McNairy County.
30. Pusser received honorary recognition for his services. He was made an honorary sergeant of arms by the Tennessee General Assembly in 1969, reflecting his significant contributions to law enforcement.

Film Contract and Legacy in Popular Culture

Pusser's life story continues to inspire and captivate audiences.

31. In 1972, Pusser signed a contract with Bing Crosby Productions to film his life story. The resulting film, "Walking Tall," became a box-office smash and cemented his legendary status.
32. Pusser's story has been immortalized in popular culture through various films, books, and songs. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of law enforcement officers and enthusiasts alike.

Buford Pusser Museum and Festival

The museum and festival keep Pusser's legacy alive for future generations.

33. The Buford Pusser Home and Museum features a wide range of exhibits, including original furnishings, photos, cars, guns, and memorabilia of the Pusser family. These exhibits provide a comprehensive look into Pusser's life and career.
34. The annual Buford Pusser Festival includes a bus tour narrated by Dwana Pusser, which offers visitors a unique perspective on Pusser's life and legacy. The festival also features a carnival and other events celebrating Pusser's contributions to law enforcement.
35. Dwana Pusser continues to manage the museum and narrate the bus tour, ensuring that her father's story remains alive for future generations. The museum and festival serve as a testament to Pusser's enduring legacy in law enforcement and popular culture.

Buford Pusser's Enduring Legacy

Buford Pusser's life stands as a testament to bravery and dedication. From his early days as a towering athlete to his relentless fight against organized crime, Pusser's story is one of grit and determination. His tenure as sheriff saw numerous confrontations with the Dixie Mafia and the State Line Mob, leading to significant personal sacrifices, including the tragic loss of his wife, Pauline. Despite multiple assassination attempts and severe injuries, Pusser's resolve never wavered.

His legacy lives on through films like "Walking Tall," the Buford Pusser Museum, and the annual festival in Adamsville. These tributes ensure that his contributions to law enforcement and his fight for justice are remembered. Pusser's story continues to inspire, reminding us that one person's courage can make a profound difference in the world. His life remains a powerful symbol of justice and resilience.