Known for hosting the five bloodiest hours of the Civil War during the Battle of Franklin in 1864, this well-preserved town has always held a certain appeal for history buffs. But history-lovers aren’t the only ones with their eyes on Franklin nowadays.
With dozens of attractions that tie into its unique past and no shortage of natural beauty, it’s no wonder the New York Times calls Franklin a “small-town gem near Nashville” or that Travel + Leisure Magazine ranked it 16th on its list of “America’s Best Towns for Fall Colors.”
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*ACCOLADESBest Southern TownMost Romantic Main StreetTop 10 for Historic PreservationGreat American Main Street AwardOne of Five Best Places in America to Antique Shop
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BATTLE OF FRANKLIN REBORNWhen fighting broke out at 4 p.m. on Nov. 30, 1864, ordinary houses turned into pieces of history.The Carter House was commandeered by Federal soldiers and made a command post while the Carter family took shelter in the basement. The home still has scars from the battle — the stairs and outer walls riddled with bullets. ($8-$15)The Carnton Plantation became the largest field hospital for Confederate soldiers. Hundreds, wounded and dying, were brought into the house and taken to the yard when space inside ran out. Today, the two acres of adjacent land known as the McGavock Confederate Cemetery are a lasting memorial honoring the fallen. ($8-$15)The Lotz House, a Civil War museum across the street from the Carter House, tells the story of a family that woke up to find a Federal line drawn in their front yard. It’s the story of a home ravaged by war and the family who sought to repair it. ($5-$10)>The Battle of Franklin Trust offers a $30 admission ticket that includes a guided tour of all three historical homes.
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HISTORY EMBRACES ARTGallery 202 sits at the intersection of art and history.The gallery showcases a diverse selection of work from more than 45 local and regional artists. The collection includes paintings, antiques, jewelry, pottery and sculptures.The gallery is housed in the historic Clouston Hall, which served as a war hospital during the Battle of Franklin. Evidence of its grisly past can be found all over the 19th century home. The floor in the foyer is still wounded from a fired cannon ball and black blood stains from wounded soldiers can be found inside.* Where: 202 Second Ave. S* When: Open Tuesday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment.
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SERVING UP SOME HISTORYHidden in a building that was once a pharmacy, GRAYS on Main celebrates Franklin’s historic culture and Southern cuisine. The rustic-chic café offers a wide variety of lunch and dinner options, as well as craft cocktails that reflect the late 19th-century drink culture.Each night, the restaurant features live music from artists playing everything from indie rock to country to jazz.We won’t ruin the surprise, but definitely make sure you check out the second floor!* Where: 332 Main St.* More info: 615-435-3603