The history of Sherwood has been shaped by geography. The railroad from Nashville to Chattanooga might have taken a different route had it not been for a low place in the Cumberland Plateau -- a place just perfect for the historic Cumberland Mountain Tunnel about seven miles north of town. The tunnel was completed in 1852 and was strategically important to both sides during the Civil War. The Confederates abaondoned the tunnel as they retreated from Tullahoma toward Chattanooga in July 1863.
Sherwood Springs
One of the most alluring features of the region is the presence of mineral springs. These sites were especially popular in the 1800s. Promoters touted the benefits of "taking the waters," and wealthy patrons endured long stagecoach rides to reach destinations such as Beersheba Springs in neighboring Grundy County. In 1875 C. D. Sherwood, impressed by the natural beauty of the valley, formed the Sherwood Land and Emigration Company and began to build his Sherwood Colony. Unfortunately Sherwood was not able to realize his dream and in 1893 he sold most of his property in the valley to Byron Gager.
Source: http://www.sherwoodtenn.com/
