Exploring Franklin: Historic Sites, Local Shops & Live Music

• What is the Lotz House Museum?
  • The Lotz House Museum showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of Johann Albert Lotz, a German immigrant and classically trained woodworker who settled in Franklin in the mid-1800s.
• What makes the Lotz House special?
  • The house was originally converted into a showroom for Lotz’s most prized woodworking creations. It also contains beautiful handmade furniture crafted by Lotz himself, much of which still stands in the home today.
• Does the museum cover Civil War history?
  • Yes! In addition to the history of the Lotz family, the museum provides insight into Civil War events in and around Franklin.
• When is the museum open for tours?
  • The Lotz House Museum is open for tours six days a week. Tours are also available on Sundays, but they must be scheduled in advance.
• Is there an admission fee?
  • Yes, but admission is free for children under the age of six.
• Where is the Lotz House Museum located?
  • 1111 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-790-7190

• What is Carnton?
  • Carnton is a historic home built in 1826 by Nashville mayor Randal McGavock. It played a significant role in the Battle of Franklin during the Civil War.
• Why is Carnton historically significant?
  • Carnton was converted into the largest field hospital for Confederate troops after the Battle of Franklin, a five-hour fight that resulted in nearly 10,000 men killed, injured, or missing.
• Are there visible remnants of the battle?
  • Yes, the bloodstains of four Confederate generals who were laid on the back porch are still visible on the front porch today.
• Is there a cemetery at Carnton?
  • Yes, a cemetery adjacent to the home contains the graves of 1,500 Confederate soldiers who died in battle.
• What kind of tours are available at Carnton?
  • Visitors can take a one-hour guided tour of Carnton, the grounds, and its outbuildings.
• Do tours include other historic sites?
  • Some tours also include a stop at the Carter House, another significant historic site located about a mile away from Carnton.
• Where is Carnton located?
  • 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-794-0903

• What is the Franklin Farmers Market?
  • The Franklin Farmers Market is a year-round farmers market established in 2002 by eight local farmers dedicated to preserving Tennessee's rich farmlands.
• How many vendors participate in the market?
  • Nearly 80 farmers from Franklin and surrounding areas sell their produce and goods at the market.
• What can visitors buy at the Franklin Farmers Market?
  • The market offers a variety of fresh and handmade goods, including:
    • Farm-fresh produce, meats, and eggs.
    • Baked goods from local artisans.
    • Handmade pottery, furniture, and jewelry.
• Is the market popular with locals and tourists?
  • Yes! The Franklin Farmers Market attracts thousands of visitors each week, including both locals and tourists.
• Does the Franklin Farmers Market host special events?
  • Yes, the market runs a large volunteer program that organizes special events and festivals throughout the year.

• What is Franklin on Foot?
  • Franklin on Foot is a local tour company that provides walking tours of Franklin’s most important historical sites. It was founded in 2003.
• What types of tours does Franklin on Foot offer?
  • The company offers a variety of specialized tours, including:
    • Ghost tours – Explore Franklin’s haunted history.
    • History tours – Learn about the city's rich past.
    • Civil War tours – Visit key battle sites.
    • Crime tours – Uncover Franklin’s true crime stories.
    • Cemetery tours – Discover historic gravesites.
    • Food tours – Sample local culinary favorites.
• Are there tours for children and families?
  • Yes! Families can sign up for children’s tours, which are designed to be fun and educational.
• Does Franklin on Foot offer private tours?
  • Yes, private tours are available upon request.
• Does Franklin on Foot provide educational programs?
  • Yes, the company offers free, fun, and educational in-classroom programs for local elementary schools. Students can also participate in guided field trips led by Franklin on Foot tour guides.
• How can I contact Franklin on Foot?
  • Franklin on Foot, Phone: 615-400-3808

What to do if you are traveling with kids:

• What is Timberland Park?
  • Timberland Park is a 72-acre nature park located less than a mile from Double Arch Bridge on Highway 96. It is a popular destination for birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, and hikers.
• What trails are available at Timberland Park?
  • The park features a paved trail that winds through the property and leads to a scenic overlook pavilion. Additional trails connect to more remote areas of the park for adventurous hikers.
• What can visitors learn at the interpretive center?
  • The 2,000-square-foot interpretive center provides visitors with information about the history and purpose of Timberland Park.
• Is Timberland Park pet-friendly?
  • Yes! The park welcomes pets, but they must be kept on a leash, and visitors are required to clean up after their animals.

• What is the Carter House?
  • The Carter House is a historic home in Franklin, Tennessee, that once belonged to Fountain Branch Carter, an entrepreneur and farmer.
• Who was Fountain Branch Carter?
  • Fountain Branch Carter was a businessman and farmer who lived in Franklin with his wife and twelve children. Over time, he expanded his farm from 19 acres to 288 acres.
• What role did the Carter House play in the Battle of Franklin?
  • The Carter House was at the center of the Battle of Franklin. After a Federal general commandeered the home, the Carter family had to hide and wait for the battle to end.
• When did the State of Tennessee acquire the Carter House?
  • In 1951, the State of Tennessee purchased the Carter home to preserve its historical significance.
• Can visitors tour the Carter House?
  • Yes! The Carter House is open for guided tours, allowing guests to learn about its history and role in the Civil War.
• Where is the Carter House located?
  • 1140 Columbia Avenue, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-791-1861

Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:

• What is Leiper’s Fork?
  • Leiper’s Fork is a charming village in rural Williamson County. It is home to just 650 residents and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• What historical significance does Leiper’s Fork have?
  • The village was once an important stop along the Natchez Trace, which contributed to its population growth and economic activity.
• What is Leiper’s Fork like today?
  • Today, Leiper’s Fork is a peaceful and quiet community that attracts visitors with its historic charm and vibrant arts scene.
• What activities can visitors enjoy in Leiper’s Fork?
  • Visitors can explore:
    • Art galleries featuring local artists.
    • Antique shops filled with unique finds.
    • Local restaurants serving Southern cuisine.
    • Live performances at the Leiper’s Fork Lawnchair Theatre.
• Does Leiper’s Fork host events?
  • Yes! The village puts on shows, festivals, and special events year-round for both locals and visitors to enjoy.

• What is The Factory at Franklin?
  • The Factory at Franklin is a historic complex featuring a mix of stores, restaurants, and offices.
• When was The Factory at Franklin built?
  • The building was originally constructed in 1929 and has housed several prominent companies over the years.
• What companies have operated in The Factory?
  • The Factory has been home to:
    • Dortch Stove Works
    • Magic Chef
    • Jamison Bedding Company
• Is The Factory at Franklin historically significant?
  • Yes! The building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• How has The Factory changed over the years?
  • Although the building has changed ownership multiple times since 1929, each owner has worked to preserve its unique architecture and history.
• What venues can visitors see at The Factory?
  • The Factory is home to several historic venues, including:
    • Liberty Hall
    • Jamison Theater
    • The Little Theater
    • The Heritage Room
• Where is The Factory at Franklin located?
  • 230 Franklin Road, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-791-1777

• What is Gallery 202?
  • Gallery 202 is a fine art gallery located in downtown Franklin. It is housed in Clouston Hall, a historic Federal-style home built in 1821.
• What is the history of Clouston Hall?
  • Clouston Hall was originally built as a town home for the Clouston family to host parties and political gatherings. At least three U.S. presidents visited the home for social events.
• Did Clouston Hall play a role in the Civil War?
  • Yes! During the Battle of Franklin, Clouston Hall was used as a hospital for the Missouri Regiment.
• What type of artwork is displayed at Gallery 202?
  • The gallery features a variety of artistic mediums, including:
    • Paintings
    • Antiques
    • Glassware
    • Jewelry
    • Pottery
    • Sculptures by local artisans
• How many artists are represented at Gallery 202?
  • At any given time, the gallery showcases work from more than 20 talented artists.
• Where is Gallery 202 located?
  • 202 2^nd Avenue South, Franklin, TN 37064, Phone: 615-472-1134