Early History
Buchanan land: That is what the first settlement was called that later became La Vergne. It was originally located in what was later to become Davidson County and Rutherford County, but in the beginning of the city, it was just a part of the Hurricane Creek and Stones River waterways.
Samuel and John Buchanan settled the French Lick Station after traveling with the Robertson Party to reach this part of “wild” Tennessee. The brothers were noted frontiersmen and had come to the area to seek their fortunes. Unfortunately, Sam was killed by Indians between 1783 and 1788 - records are unclear - in the “half moon” tactic. Sam had been plowing a field when Indians fired upon him. He ran from the 12-member attack party who pursued him in a half moon pattern. When he came to a bluff next to a creek, he jumped down it, but was quickly overtaken and killed. His brother John then became the patriarch of the family.
Early post office records show that James B. Buchanan was postmaster at Buchananville on January 26, 1837.
The Name La Vergne
While many old-timers say La Vergne means “The Green” because of how the city greens during the spring with cedars, the lush lawns of summer, and green pastures across the area, that the town got its name on the day Francois Lenard Gregoire de Roulhac de La Vergne died is probably the most likely explanation. Another possibility is the city was named after a tree that is native to France called “La Vergne.” The tree - in English - is the Alder tree and it thrives along waterways. It is a rugged tree that might have been inspiration for the first boat as a hollowed Alder fell into a stream on the banks where it grew.
Be Part of La Vergne’s Legacy. Build the Future with Us.
The City of La Vergne has a proud tradition of service, strength, and community, a tradition built by those who came before us and carried forward by those who wear the badge today. Now, it’s your turn.
When you join the La Vergne Police Department, you’re not just starting a job, you’re becoming part of something greater. You’ll add your story to a department rich with history, heart, and an unbreakable commitment to protecting and serving our city. Every call answered, every life impacted, every step taken forward, it’s all part of building a stronger La Vergne for generations to come.
Become part of the tradition. Create your legacy. Join La Vergne PD today.
