TOAD SUCK - THE NAME

Before we get too far from Toad Suck, I want to tell you the tale, taken from information given to me by the campground host, of how Toad Suck got its creepy name.

"This pungent, earthy name is most unusual, to say the least, and is steeped in legend and forklore. The name was given to the river ferry, a riverside tavern, a settlement and finally a modern gigantic dam across the Arkansas River.

"The first river crossing here was in 1823, when a postal route to Hot Springs was established. A skiff, large enough for just the operator, a horse and rider was propelled back and forth by a pole.

"A wood yard was located about a quarter mile downstream where steamboats could stop and take on wood for fuel. Near the skiff crossing, a tavern was located on the west side of the river sometime between 1830 and 1850.

"It was a favorite gathering place for steamboat roustabouts, passengers, and local folks. Some very well known people passed by the old ferry crossing - Sam Houston, Washington Irving, Zachary Taylor, Jeff Davis.

Heavy drinking at the tavern caused a traveler to remark, "Those fellows suck at a bottle 'til they swell up like toads!" So the name of Toad Suck came into being, and remains today. "

That's the story, as given to me! These photos show the Toad Suck Ferry Lock and Dam, and our great campsite, D4.