Franklin First United Methodist Church – Historic Sanctuary

The present Historic Sanctuary church lot was bought in the spring of 1869 from the heirs of the late Robert Courtney, and the original part of the building you see has been occupied by the Methodist congregation in Franklin since 1871. The Historic Sanctuary, features handcrafted pews made by a local carpenter, each uniquely designed from oak logs with primitive tools. Its gothic arched windows, adorned with handmade colored glass, showcase rosette designs echoed throughout the building. Original features include the communion rail and pulpit, while the red bricks, crafted from Harpeth River mud, were initially painted white before transitioning to their current appearance. The steep roofline, stone caps on parapet walls, and arch effects further highlight the building’s architectural charm.