Battle of Franklin Trust: Preserving Tennessee’s Civil War History
The Battle of Franklin Trust is a nonprofit organization committed to preserving and interpreting the Civil War history of Franklin and Spring Hill, Tennessee. It oversees three key historic sites—Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa—all of which played pivotal roles in the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864. Together, these locations provide a comprehensive view of the Civil War’s impact on local communities, soldiers, and families.
Led by Eric A. Jacobson, a renowned Civil War historian and author, the Trust works to ensure these historical landmarks are preserved while offering educational programs and events that share the profound stories of those affected by the war. Through its preservation efforts, the Trust honors the memory of soldiers and civilians, ensuring their experiences remain an integral part of American history and helping future generations understand the lasting effects of the conflict.
Historic Homes Preserved by The Battle of Franklin Trust
Carnton
Carnton, built in 1826 by Randal McGavock, a prominent politician and former mayor of Nashville, stands as one of the most significant historic homes in Franklin, Tennessee. The home became a field hospital during and after the Battle of Franklin, offering shelter and care for hundreds of wounded Confederate soldiers. Its transformation from a serene antebellum home to a critical medical facility during one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles is a powerful reminder of the war’s human toll. Today, Carnton has been meticulously preserved to reflect both its pre-war grandeur and its somber role during the battle. The property also features the McGavock Confederate Cemetery, the largest privately owned military cemetery in the U.S., with over 1,500 soldiers laid to rest there. • 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin, TN 37064 •
Carter House
Carter House, constructed around 1830 by Fountain Branch Carter, is another important Civil War landmark. Located near the epicenter of the Battle of Franklin, Carter House witnessed some of the fiercest hand-to-hand combat during the fight, with intense fighting taking place in its yard. The Carter family, including Fountain Branch, his wife Polly, and their children, took refuge in the basement of the home as the battle raged outside. Carter House serves as a critical site for understanding the personal toll of the Civil War, not only as a military conflict but also as a deeply personal struggle for families like the Carters. • 140 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN 37064 •
Rippa Villa
Situated in Spring Hill, Tennessee, Rippa Villa was built in the early 1850s by Nathaniel Cheairs, a prosperous planter. This historic home played a key role during the Battle of Spring Hill, which took place the day before the Battle of Franklin. On November 29, 1864, Confederate General John Bell Hood used Rippa Villa as his headquarters, where he made pivotal decisions about the Army of Tennessee’s movements. The missed opportunities and miscommunications that occurred at the Battle of Spring Hill directly contributed to the Confederate losses at Franklin the next day. • 5700 Main St, Spring Hill, TN 37174 •
How the Battle of Franklin Trust Shares Civil War History
The Battle of Franklin Trust is more than just a preservation group; it plays an active role in educating the public about the events and aftermath of the Battle of Franklin. Through a range of educational programs, events, and outreach efforts, the Battle of Franklin Trust ensures the public has access to both the historical significance and emotional resonance of these sites.
Tours
The Battle of Franklin Trust offers a variety of tour options across its three historic sites—Carter House, Carnton, and Rippa Villa—each providing unique insights into the history of the Civil War and the Battle of Franklin.
Visitors can experience Classic House Tours at each site, where guides delve into the personal stories of the families who lived there and their experiences during the battle. For a more in-depth experience, Extended Tours at all three locations explore not only the main houses but also the outbuildings and the surrounding battlefield areas. At Carnton, this tour includes the McGavock Confederate Cemetery, the largest privately-owned military cemetery in the U.S.
For those interested in the broader military context, Battlefield Tours are available at Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa, taking visitors through key strategic locations. These tours focus on the military maneuvers and significance of both the Battle of Franklin and the Battle of Spring Hill, which preceded it.
Specialized tours are also available. The Slavery & the Enslaved Tour, offered at both Carnton and Carter House, highlights the lives of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked on these properties. For a unique Christian perspective on the Civil War, Carnton offers the Amazing Grace Tour, while the Behind the Scenes Tour provides exclusive access to areas of the house not covered in other tours.
For a comprehensive battlefield experience, the Spring Hill to Franklin Battlefield Tour offers a four-hour journey that includes walking and driving portions, covering the battle sites between Rippa Villa and Franklin.
Educational Programs
The Battle of Franklin Trust focuses on providing educational opportunities through a variety of initiatives. The Trust offers educational field trips for schools and youth groups, aligned with history curricula. These programs provide hands-on learning experiences, allowing students to explore historic sites like Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa, and gain insights into Civil War history.
Special Events
Each year, the Battle of Franklin Trust hosts a series of special events that draw Civil War enthusiasts, families, and visitors from across the region. Key events include:
- The Battle of Spring Hill and Franklin Anniversary is an annual event that honors the sacrifices made during the Battles of Spring Hill and Franklin. Each year, the Battle of Franklin Anniversary Commemoration includes various ceremonies and activities designed to educate the public about the battle’s historical significance and to pay tribute to the soldiers who fought and died during this pivotal event in the Civil War.
- Community Talks is an educational series presented by the Battle of Franklin Trust that delves into various topics related to American history. Held several times a year at the Fleming Center at Historic Carnton, these talks feature in-depth explorations led by the Battle of Franklin Trust staff or guest speakers. Topics have ranged from individual stories and Civil War medicine practices to broader discussions about the Civil War and its lasting legacy.
- The Descendants Reunion hosted by the Battle of Franklin Trust is an annual event that brings together the descendants of soldiers who fought in the Battle of Franklin. Held at Carnton, this special event serves as a unique opportunity for descendants to connect with one another and share their personal family stories. The reunion includes guided tours of Carnton, The Carter House, and Rippa Villa, as well as historical presentations and panel discussions that highlight the personal experiences of those who lived through the battle. The reunion is open to any descendants of soldiers who participated in the battle, both Union and Confederate.
- The Legacy Dinner, held on the last Friday in April every year, honors the visitors, members, and donors who support the trust’s efforts to preserve and interpret the historic sites associated with the Battle of Franklin. The dinner provides an opportunity for supporters to contribute to the ongoing work of historic preservation and education.
Virtual Museum
The Battle of Franklin Trust’s Virtual Museum offers a digital experience that allows visitors to explore a range of Civil War artifacts and learn about significant historical events related to the Battle of Franklin and the surrounding region. This online platform provides access to various exhibits, showcasing artifacts like weapons, clothing, personal items of soldiers, and letters from the war. The virtual museum is designed to enhance public engagement by offering an in-depth look at the items and stories preserved by the Trust, making it accessible to those who cannot visit the physical sites of Carnton, Carter House, or Rippa Villa.
The Battle of Franklin Trust’s YouTube Channel provides a range of educational and historical content focused on the Civil War and specifically the Battle of Franklin. The channel features video tours, historical discussions, and special presentations that explore significant events, people, and artifacts related to the Trust’s work at Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa.
How to Support the Battle of Franklin Trust
Supporting the Battle of Franklin Trust helps preserve the vital history of the Battle of Franklin and its broader Civil War context, ensuring these stories are shared with future generations. There are several ways to contribute, including becoming a member, making donations, volunteering, or engaging in planned giving. Each form of support helps maintain and protect the historic sites under Battle of Franklin’s care—Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa—and furthers the Trust’s mission to educate the public on the lasting significance of these pivotal events in American history
Donate
Supporting the Battle of Franklin Trust ensures the continued preservation and education surrounding the pivotal events of the Battle of Franklin and Civil War history. There are several ways individuals can contribute:
- Membership: Becoming a member of the Battle of Franklin Trust is a direct way to support its mission. Memberships range from Young Historian to Legacy, offering various benefits like annual passes, discounts, and invitations to exclusive events.
- Donations: General donations help fund ongoing operations that are essential for maintaining the integrity of Carter House, Carnton, and Rippa Villa.
- Endowments: Donating to the Battle of Franklin Endowment or the Spring Hill Endowment ensures long-term preservation efforts. These funds protect historic structures, support battlefield reclamation, and secure future restoration projects.
- Planned Giving: Legacy gifts, such as estate or memorial contributions, can be directed to the Battle of Franklin Trust’s endowments, providing perpetual support for its initiatives.
- Matching Gifts: Many companies offer a matching gift program where they match or multiply the donations made by their employees to nonprofit organizations. By participating in this program, your gift to the Battle of Franklin Trust could be doubled or even tripled.
Volunteer
The Battle of Franklin Trust offers various volunteer opportunities that allow individuals to actively contribute to preserving and interpreting the history of the Battle of Franklin and the Civil War. Volunteers help with a range of tasks, including supporting events, assisting with educational programs, and providing guest services. For more information on volunteering, visit the Battle of Franklin Trust Volunteer page.
Preserving the Legacy of the Battle of Franklin
The Battle of Franklin Trust serves as a vital guardian of Tennessee’s rich Civil War history, preserving the stories and legacies tied to Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa. Through immersive tours, engaging educational programs, and special events, the Trust brings to life the human experiences behind the Battle of Franklin and its aftermath. By supporting the Trust through donations, memberships, or volunteering, you can help ensure that these pivotal moments in American history continue to inspire and educate future generations, keeping the lessons and sacrifices of the past alive for years to come.
For more information, or to plan a visit, explore the Battle of Franklin Trust’s website.
