5 Things You NEED to Know About Franklin, Tennessee

Franklin, Tennessee is a small town located about 20 miles south of Nashville. Despite its small size, it has a rich history and plenty of things to offer visitors. In this article, we will cover the top 5 things you need to know about Franklin, Tennessee.

Firstly, Franklin is known for its Civil War history. The Battle of Franklin was fought here on November 30, 1864, and it was one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. Today, visitors can explore the town's historic sites, including the Carter House, Carnton Plantation, and Lotz House Museum, to learn more about the battle and the town's role in the war.

Secondly, Franklin is a hub for music lovers. The town has a vibrant music scene, with live music performances happening almost every night. Visitors can check out the Franklin Theatre, which hosts concerts and shows throughout the year, or attend the annual Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, which features a lineup of top-tier musicians.

Historical Significance of Franklin

Franklin, Tennessee is a city steeped in history. From the Civil War to the early days of the American Revolution, Franklin has played a significant role in shaping the nation's history. In this section, we will explore two key events that have shaped Franklin's historical significance - The Battle of Franklin and Historic Main Street.

The Battle of Franklin

The Battle of Franklin was fought on November 30, 1864, during the American Civil War. It was one of the bloodiest battles of the war, with over 10,000 casualties. The battle was fought between the Confederate Army of Tennessee, commanded by General John Bell Hood, and the Union Army of the Ohio, commanded by Major General John M. Schofield.

The battle was a turning point in the Civil War, as it effectively ended the Confederate Army's campaign to capture Nashville. The Union Army was able to repel the Confederate attack, and Hood lost nearly 6,000 soldiers along with six generals. The battle was a significant victory for the Union Army, and it paved the way for the eventual defeat of the Confederacy.

Historic Main Street

Historic Main Street is a charming area of Franklin that is steeped in history. The street is lined with beautiful historic buildings, many of which date back to the early 19th century. The area is home to a number of historic sites, including the Lotz House Museum, which was used as a field hospital during the Battle of Franklin.

Today, Historic Main Street is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The area is home to a number of unique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Visitors can take a stroll down the street and enjoy the beautiful architecture and historic charm of the area.

In conclusion, the historical significance of Franklin, Tennessee cannot be overstated. The Battle of Franklin and Historic Main Street are just two examples of the city's rich history. Visitors to the area can explore these sites and many others to gain a deeper understanding of the role that Franklin has played in shaping the nation's history.

Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge

The Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering and a popular tourist attraction in Franklin, Tennessee. It is a concrete double-arch bridge that spans over 1,600 feet across State Route 96 and the valley below. The bridge is an impressive sight to behold and is often described as one of the most beautiful bridges in the United States.

The Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge was completed in 1994 and is a part of the Natchez Trace Parkway, a national scenic byway that stretches 444 miles through Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. The bridge was designed to blend in with the surrounding landscape and to provide a safe and efficient way for motorists to cross the valley below.

The bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, especially during the fall when the leaves change color. Visitors can park at the Birdsong Hollow Overlook to take in the views and snap some photos. The overlook is located on the north side of the bridge and provides a great vantage point for viewing the bridge and the valley below.

Overall, the Natchez Trace Parkway Bridge is a must-see attraction in Franklin, Tennessee. Its impressive design and stunning views make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Pride in Tennessee Flag

Franklin, Tennessee is home to a vibrant LGBTQ community, which celebrates its pride every year with the Franklin Pride Festival. The festival is a family-friendly event that brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate diversity and inclusivity.

The Franklin Pride Festival has faced resistance and protests in the past, but it has continued to grow in popularity and support. In 2023, the festival saw a successful and safe celebration with thousands of attendees, according to The News TN.

The city of Franklin has a long history of supporting the LGBTQ community. In 2019, the city raised the Pride in Tennessee Flag for the first time, according to WKRN. The flag is a symbol of the LGBTQ community's resilience and the city's commitment to equality.

The Pride in Tennessee Flag has six stripes, each with a specific meaning. The colors are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and purple. Red represents life, orange represents healing, yellow represents sunlight, green represents nature, blue represents harmony, and purple represents spirit.

The Pride in Tennessee Flag is an important symbol of the LGBTQ community's fight for equality and acceptance. It represents the community's diversity, resilience, and strength. The city of Franklin's decision to raise the flag is a powerful statement of support for the LGBTQ community and a step towards a more inclusive and accepting society.

Soccer Enthusiasm

Franklin, Tennessee is home to a thriving soccer community. The Tennessee Soccer Club, formed in 2012, brings together two established groups: the Tennessee Futbol Club and the Brentwood Soccer Club. With approximately 1,600 players, 70 coaches, and over 1,400 families, the club provides an excellent opportunity for children to play competitive soccer, receive top-notch coaching, and potentially take their skills to the next level.

In addition to the Tennessee Soccer Club, Franklin also has a variety of other soccer programs available for children of all ages and skill levels. Whether your child is just starting out or is a seasoned player, there is a program that can meet their needs.

For those who enjoy watching soccer, Franklin is also home to the Nashville Soccer Club. The club plays in the United Soccer League (USL) and offers an exciting opportunity to watch professional soccer in a family-friendly environment. The Nashville Soccer Club plays at the First Tennessee Park in Nashville, which is just a short drive from Franklin.

Overall, Franklin's soccer enthusiasm is a testament to the community's commitment to providing opportunities for children and adults alike to participate in and enjoy this beloved sport.

Festivals and Parades

Franklin, Tennessee is known for its vibrant festivals and parades that celebrate its rich history and culture. Here are some of the most popular events that take place in Franklin throughout the year:

Main Street Festival

The Main Street Festival is a highly anticipated event that takes place every April in historic downtown Franklin. Organized and operated by the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN, the festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and more. The festival is free to attend and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Kids Arts Festival

The Kids Arts Festival is a fun and educational event that takes place every March at Pinkerton Park in Franklin. The festival features stage performances, art sales, and master classes for kids in kindergarten through 12th grade. The festival is a great way to introduce kids to the arts and encourage their creativity.

Pumpkinfest

Pumpkinfest is a family-friendly event that takes place every October in downtown Franklin. The festival features a pumpkin patch, live music, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and more. The festival is free to attend and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Dickens of a Christmas

Dickens of a Christmas is a holiday-themed event that takes place every December in downtown Franklin. The festival celebrates the life and works of Charles Dickens and features live performances, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, and more. The festival is free to attend and is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.

Franklin Rodeo

The Franklin Rodeo is a popular event that takes place every May at the Williamson County Agricultural Expo Park in Franklin. The rodeo features bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and more. The event attracts professional cowboys and cowgirls from around the country and is a must-see for rodeo fans.

Whether you're a local or a visitor, Franklin's festivals and parades offer something for everyone. From live music to arts and crafts, these events are a great way to experience the culture and community of Franklin.