Franklin Battlefield Was Listed and Politically Realistic

______Plan Purpose & Goals PLAN GOALS

The following general goals will be followed PLAN PURPOSE by this plan: The Battle of Franklin occurred on November 30, 1864, and it was significant in two key re- To prepare a plan based upon accurate gards. First, the level of carnage was consid- historical research. erable based upon the numerous fruitless charges made by the Confederate Army of To prepare a plan that reflects public input and a community consensus. New commercial development continues to steadily Tennessee, the effectiveness of the Union march forward on Franklin’s most hallowed ground. forces, and the resulting casualties. Secondly, To prepare a plan that identifies and pri- the battle marked the beginning of the end for oritizes the most significant properties the Western Theater of the Civil War, as and resources associated with the Hood’s Army of Tennessee was crippled to an battle. extent that it would never recover to perform as an effective fighting force. To prepare a plan that is economically The Franklin Battlefield was listed and politically realistic. among the country’s Top Ten Most Despite the importance of this sacred land, it Endangered Civil War Battlefields has been carved away by development over To prepare a plan that furthers both in 2004 by the Civil War Preserva- the past century, and now only random rem- preservation and heritage tourism nants survive. It is the purpose of this plan to objectives. tion Trust. summarize the historic significance and key themes of the battle, delineate the battlefield area, and lay out a strategy to preserve and enhance those portions of the battlefield that can still be salvaged or reclaimed.

“We won’t be able to save all of these battlefields. We won’t be able to save many of the most important battlefields... But just as those armies of dedicated men went from a terrible defeat forward with a hope of victory, a success, because they believed themselves to be in the right, that’s what we have to do - march ahead, fight in the next battle, hopefully to win. So we’ll win, and we’ll This marker, identifying lose, but we’ll always keep fighting.” the Union entrenchments - Brian Pohanka, Civil War Historian at Columbia Avenue, Columbia Pike’s appearance could benefit from has completely lost the design guidelines and streetscape improvements. ______integrity of its context. Plan Purpose & Goals Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 1 of 73 ______Study Area Overview Downtown Franklin The study area for this plan includes all portions of Franklin that played a role in the No- vember 30, 1864, Battle of Franklin. While the plan focuses on the actual battlefield area as delineated on page 30 based upon historic records, it also addresses various scattered sites, such as Ropers Knob and the many historic buildings that served as officers’ headquarters and post-battle hospitals.

The battlefield is located on the south side of Franklin approximately one half mile south of Columbia Avenue’s intersection with the “Five Points” area of downtown. Starting at the north near the Carter and Lotz Houses, the battlefield extends south to Winstead and Breezy Hills, west to Carters Creek Pike and east to Lewisburg Pike and the Harpeth River. Bi- sected along a north-south axis by Columbia Avenue, the area is, topographically, relatively flat with some gently rolling terrain.

The battlefield area also represents a wide range of existing land uses and development densities. The northerly portion of the battlefield includes relatively high-density commercial and residential development, while the southerly portions are less dense and include industrial uses and some undeveloped open spaces. Mack Hatcher Parkway, a high-ca- pacity highway, traverses the southerly portion of the battlefield. It currently accesses only the eastern half of the battlefield, but it will soon be extended to the west. A railroad line, which has existed since before the battle, extends along a meandering north-south axis to the east of Columbia Pike.

______Study area overview Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 2 of 73 ______Plan Methodology

The following four-step process was used to Stakeholder Participation create this plan: The following groups have participated in the creation of this plan through either attendance at meetings or discussions Task 1.0 Background Research with the plan’s authors: Task 1.1 Project “Kick-Off” Meeting Task 1.2 History & Historic Resources • Franklin Mayor and Aldermen Review • Williamson County Mayor and Task 1.3 Development Context Review Commissioners Task 1.4 Field Survey • Franklin Planning Commission and staff Project team member meeting with the Carter Task 2.0 Stakeholder Meetings • Williamson County Convention and House’s staff to review maps. Task 2.1 Heritage Foundation Visitors Bureau Representatives • Williamson County Chamber of Task 2.2 City & County Officials Commerce Task 2.3 Property Owners • Williamson County Historian Task 2.4 Battlefield Preservationists • The Heritage Foundation of Franklin “A crucial aspect of Civil War battlefield and Williamson County preservation is the fact that we have so Task 3.0 Preparation of Draft Plan little time to accomplish what needs to be I. Overview • Tennessee Historical Commission / done. We really have just a very few II. Historic Significance of the Battle Tennessee Wars Commission years before the urban growth that is of Franklin • Tennessee Civil War Preservation taking place on so many key places III. Analysis of Existing Conditions Association overewhelms some of the best sites that IV. Battlefield Preservation & • Tennessee Civil War National remain.” Enhancement Strategy Heritage Area / MTSU Center for V. Plan Implementation Historic Preservation - Gary W. Gallagher, Penn State University • Central Franklin Area Plan Battlefield Task 4.0 Plan Review & Revisions Committee Task 4.1 Draft Plan Submission • Save the Franklin Battlefield, Inc. Task 4.2 Draft Plan Presentation • The Carter House Museum “We used to have a brown cultural sign Task 4.3 Plan Revisions • Carnton Plantation on I-65 advertising the ‘Franklin Battle- • The Lotz House field,’ but we got so many complaints from • Local Real Estate Representatives tourists who were disappointed to find no battlefield that we had to change it to • Property Owners ‘Battle of Franklin.’”

- Herbert Harper, Executive Director Tennessee Historical Commission

______plan methodology Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 3 of 73 ______Battle Summary

The map at right provides a visual overview of the Battle of Franklin’s progres- sion near the Columbia Pike, minus the east and west flanks. Prior to the Army of Tennessee’s arrival in Franklin from the south, Union forces hastily errected breastworks in the form of an arch centered on Columbia Pike on the south side of town. Those works included both forward lines and more substantial inner works to the north. The battle, which did not begin until approximately 4:00 PM on November 30, 1864, consisted of a series of frontal assualts by General Hood’s Confederate army over open grounds. Although the charges lasted until well into the night, the Confederate forces were ultimately unsuccessful because of fierce resistance by Union forces. By the next morning Schofield’s Union forces had slipped across the Harpeth River headed toward Nashville. The following pages provide more detail on the battle.

This map is provided courtesy of the Civil War Pres- ervation Trust

______battle summary Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 4 of 73 ______Battle Overview casualties upon his own army. Hood was easily outmaneuvered in late August by THE ROAD TO FRANKLIN Federal commander William T. Sherman, and Following the fall of Atlanta, Georgia, in Atlanta was evacuated on September 1st. September 1864, Confederate fortunes in the West were at a lower point than at any other Hard marches and occasional hard fighting time in the war. In a desperate attempt to in late-September and throughout October reverse the advantages gained by the had failed to draw Sherman out of Atlanta or successful Federal summer campaign, achieve any gains of substance. October 31st Confederate General John Bell Hood, found Hood’s Army at the Tennessee River Commander of the Army of Tennessee, began crossing at Tuscumbia, Alabama. Here, heavy a series of maneuvers in late September rains and a dismal supply situation had further against the Union line of supply and delayed him for three long weeks. Thus, the communications running from Atlanta through objectives of Hood’s subsequent operations northwest Georgia, north Alabama, middle were born in his frustration to save Atlanta Tennessee, and into Nashville. through a summer of fighting, or regain it through a fall of maneuver. From Tuscumbia, John Bell Hood had risen from the rank of Hood determined to continue his campaign General John Bell Hood Lieutenant in the Confederate Army to that of into Middle Tennessee. Army of Tennessee - CSA Lieutenant General by 1864. Hood had gained prominence through a record of determined assaults and hard fighting, and his reputation as an aggressive, determined warrior was rightfully deserved. Hood had performed superbly as a division commander in the Army of Northern Virginia. However, his relatively low academic standing at West Point suggested that he was not blessed with an imposing intellect. Additionally, he had sustained two grave wounds during the course of the war, a crippled left arm at Gettysburg, and the loss of his right leg at Chickamauga. His performance as a corps commander with the Army of Tennessee under General Joseph Johnston had been less than stellar.

Nevertheless, because of his reputation as a fighter, President Jefferson Davis hand-picked Hood as the successor to Joseph Johnston This map is pro- in July of 1864. Promoted to the temporary vided courtesy of rank of full General, Hood had dutifully the U.S. Military assumed the offensive in a flurry of hard Institute ______battle OVERVIEW Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 5 of 73 ______Battle Overview Leaving Stephen D. Lee’s Corps and the bulk southern outskirts of the town. With Major of the artillery on the south bank of the Duck General Patrick Cleburne’s division of Major Hood intended to interpose his 32,000 man River to hold Schofield’s attention at General Benjamin Franklin Cheatham’s army between the 30,000 men of Major Columbia, Hood’s remaining two corps corps in the advance, Hood gave Cleburne General John M. Schofield’s Union Fourth and marched east to cross the Duck at Davis and Cheatham orders to cooperate with Twenty-Third Army Corps located in the Ford, approximately three miles east of town. Forrest’s cavalry, and “take possession of and vicinity of Pulaski, Tennessee, and the roughly Hood had succeeded in slipping around hold that pike at or near Spring Hill.” 30,000 man garrison of Nashville under Schofield’s flank, and began the race to Cleburne’s division moved west, from the Schofield’s immediate superior, Major General Spring Hill on the Davis Ford Road, a badly Rally Hill Pike, at approximately 4:00 p.m. George H. Thomas. Hood was confident that rutted country road abandoned even by local Cresting the large hill just west of the pike, he could defeat the two Federal forces in detail, farmers. they crossed a light strip of woods and moved resulting in the capture of the massive into an open field. Northern supply depot at Nashville. With dual Although Hood had a lead in the “Spring Hill victories to bolster his reputation, and with his Races,” Schofield had not been completely The Confederate line of march took them army re-armed and equipped at Union deceived. Receiving early morning reports across the front of Bradley’s Union brigade, expense, Hood could then continue the that Hood’s infantry was crossing the river, which raked the exposed right flank of Briga- offensive into Kentucky and Ohio. Hood Schofield telegraphed Thomas at Nashville dier General Mark Lowrey’s brigade with “a surmised that such an incursion into Federal and received orders to withdraw to Franklin very destructive fire and somewhat staggered territory would result in a Confederate to protect the Harpeth River crossings there. them in front.” Lowrey’s brigade was stunned resurgence and a Northern panic, diverting Schofield accordingly started his withdrawal by the violence of Bradley’s initial fire, but resources from the siege of Petersburg in by sending his 800 wagons and most of his many of Bradley’s men were inexperienced Virginia, and prompting a recall of Sherman’s artillery up the Columbia-Nashville Turnpike and poorly drilled recruits in their first fight, forces from Georgia. with a guard of Brigadier General George and they were opposed by hardened veter- Wagner’s division, the whole under the ans who were among the toughest fighters PRELUDE: SPRING HILL command of Major General David S. Stanley. in the Army of Tennessee. As Govan and Hood’s initial series of flanking maneuvers Granbury wheeled their Confederate brigades forced Schofield to precipitately retreat from Early in the afternoon, about 12:30 p.m., the and came on line with Lowrey, Cleburne’s Pulaski to the Duck River crossings at lead elements of Wagner’s division began entire division moved forward en mass, and Columbia, Tennessee. Encouraged by this first entering Spring Hill from the south. Colonel the result was inevitable. step of the campaign, Hood marched his army Emerson Opdycke’s veteran brigade moved around Schofield’s left (eastern) flank and seize through the town, and occupied a ridge just Cleburne’s advance rolled north in pursuit of the turnpike in Schofield’s rear at Spring Hill. north of Spring Hill. Colonel John Q. Lane’s Bradley’s retreating brigade, which fled north Forrest’s cavalry had the first role in this brigade came next, and continued of McCutcheon Creek to establish new lines maneuver and crossed the Duck River ten Opdycke’s line east of town. Brigadier at the southern edge of town. Cleburne’s miles upstream at Huey’s Mill on November General Luther P. Bradley’s brigade pursuit was brought to a sudden halt by 28th. In a series of feints and fights, Forrest assumed the critical defensive position on a massive volleys from the artillery and the drove the Union cavalry towards Nashville and knoll south of town. The 103rd Ohio Infantry 103rd Ohio Infantry positioned across the away from Schofield, effectively removing the and a section of Battery A, 1st Ohio Light Columbia-Franklin Pike. Cleburne’s veterans Yankee horsemen from the scene. Having Artillery were placed across the Columbia pulled up short and sought cover under an accomplished this, Forrest turned for Spring and Franklin Pike. Eighteen artillery pieces intense and deadly accurate barrage from the Hill. were emplaced on a prominent ridge on the well positioned Union artillery. It was now ______battle OVERVIEW Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 6 of 73 ______Battle Overview plans began to quickly fall apart. Hood the trap unscathed. appeared to be confident that Forrest held the pike north of Spring Hill, and thus was The morning of November 30, 1864 found not unduly concerned with cutting the pike Schofield’s army at Franklin, digging in to south of town. To add to the confusion, cover the Harpeth River crossings. John Bell division commanders also began to receive Hood awoke to discover that the Union army conflicting orders from Hood and Cheatham. had slipped through the trap, and he was While Cheatham’s orders were aimed at an infuriated. A Confederate staff officer wrote assault on Spring Hill to the north, Hood that “He is as wrathy as a rattlesnake this continued to issue orders directly to morning, striking at everything.” In a morning Cheatham’s divisions orienting their actions breakfast at the Nathaniel Cheairs Home, west toward the pike. After a number of Hood lashed out angrily at his commanders, confused attempts at continuing their heaping abuse upon them and condemning advance, the entire Confederate army sat their failures. down for the night, cooked supper, and went to sleep. Hood’s soldiers were understandably exhausted, having marched more than fifteen miles on unbelievably bad roads. A feeble attempt would be made by Forrest late that night to cut the turnpike north of Spring Hill at Thompson’s Station, but the appearance of Federal infantry at the vanguard of Schofield’s column rapidly cleared the road. Confederate activities halted for the night as an inexplicable lethargy settled over their commanders.

While the Confederates rested on their laurels, real or imagined, the Federal army performed a well-planned and well-executed, albeit late, retreat. Schofield and his subordinates made their headquarters in the Map provided courtesy of the U.S. Military Institute saddle, and issued clear, certain instructions. All that evening and past midnight the Federal nearly 5:00 p.m., sunlight had faded into wagons, artillery, and long columns of infantry sunset (sunset was 4:49 p.m.), and Cleburne marched north toward Franklin on the dark had run into unexpectedly heavy opposition. road. By dawn the last blue clad soldiers had He called for support and instructions. Hood marched north from Spring Hill. Opdycke’s established his headquarters at the Absalom Brigade of Wagner’s Division covered the Thompson House near the Rally Hill Pike. In withdrawal. The Union army may have lost Major General John M. Schofield the post-twilight darkness, the Confederate the race to Spring Hill, but they had escaped XXIII Army Corps - USA ______battle OVERVIEW Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 7 of 73 ______

Battle Overview At approximately 4:00 p.m. the Confederate advance began. Two brigades of Wagner’s division were lightly entrenched forward of the THE BATTLE OF FRANKLIN main Federal line and were both outnumbered On the morning of November 30th Hood’s army and outflanked by the rebel main line. These continued its march north. Climbing Winstead brigades were badly broken, and were driven and Breezy Hills astride the Columbia- back in confusion to the Federal main line Nashville Pike just south of Franklin, Hood was near the house of Fountain Carter. The Union surprised to discover that Schofield remained soldiers occupying the main line were in Franklin. The reason was the 800 wagons understandably loath to fire on their own men, of the two Army Corps. There were three and the result was that their lines were broken crossings of the Harpeth River at Franklin, a at the Carter House. For a brief, critical Source: Don Troiani ford, a railroad bridge, and the remnants of a Confederate General Patrick Cleburne was killed wagon bridge. The railroad bridge could not just south of the Carter’s cotton gin while leading be crossed by horses and wagons until it was his division. planked, the sides of the ford were steep and would have to be improved, and the wagon was impenetrable. The attacks were bravely bridge would have to be reconstructed. continued until long after dark, but the only Accordingly, Schofield had no choice but to accomplishment was the largest casualty rate defend Franklin until the wagon train could of the war. Of Hood’s 20,000 infantrymen cross the Harpeth River. Schofield’s 30,000 engaged, it has been estimated that nearly men occupied entrenchments previously 7,000 were casualties. Schofield’s casualties constructed on high ground south of Franklin, were barely a third of Hood’s, being 2,326. By with both flanks anchored on the Harpeth River. the end of November 30th, the Confederate They rapidly improved their works, adding Army of the Tennessee was no longer a cohesive, viable fighting force. headlogs and a formidable abatis. Source: Don Troiani The brief Confederate break through at the Carter “Gen. Hood stopped close to where I was Hood’s combat experienced officers carefully House was driven back by Opdycke’s troops. viewed the Federal position and were standing and took a long... view of the impressed with its strength, so they were arena of the awful contest... His sturdy visage assumed a melancholy appearance, amazed when Hood issued orders for a moment it appeared as if Hood’s assault would and for a considerable time he sat on his general assault. As an alternative, Forrest succeed, but a veteran brigade commanded horse and wept like a child.” proposed a flanking movement, but Hood was by Ohio’s Colonel Emerson Opdycke concerned that this would be his last chance smashed into the attackers around the Carter - Bowers, Ferguson’s Battery to defeat Schofield in detail, before he could House, and drove them back in turn. join with Thomas behind the fortifications of “The large female institute and female Nashville. Additionally, Hood was in no mood Nowhere else did the Confederate soldiers college, courthouse, every church, and a for flanking movements, as he believed in achieve a breakthrough. The Federal fire was large percentage of the private buildings frontal assaults when facing such deadly accurate, heavy cannon emplaced in were filled with the wounded.” circumstances. Fort Granger on a hill north of the Harpeth River swept the open fields, and the abatis - Hardin Figuers, 15 year old Franklin resident

______battle OVERVIEW Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 8 of 73 ______The Battles Aftermath

on Hood when the weather turned terrible. On African American soldiers in his official report. THE BATTLE OF NASHVILLE December 9th a severe ice storm struck the As the fighting died down along the Union area, coating streets and bridges with a thick However, the final assault would be delivered defense line at Franklin, Schofield’s wagon layer of ice. The ice was accompanied by frigid at Shy’s Hill by A. J. Smith’s tough veterans. trains crossed the Harpeth River, followed by temperatures and cutting winds. Hood’s The Confederate defenses on Shy’s Hill had his infantry and artillery. By 2:00 a.m. the soldiers, not properly equipped for even a been hastily constructed in the dark, and the withdrawal was complete, and Schofield’s summer campaign, suffered terribly. defending units had been shuffled around army continued moving north to Nashville. The frequently. When Smith’s men stormed the devastated Army of Tennessee followed slowly When the ice melted, Thomas began his hill the Confederate defenders only had time in his wake, arriving on the hills south of attack. Hood occupied a range of hills south to fire one volley, and the Union soldiers were Nashville on December 2nd. For the next two of Nashville, extending from the Hillsboro Pike upon them. The rebel defense on Shy’s Hill weeks, Hood’s battered and decimated army on his left (west) to the Nolensville Pike on his collapsed, and the inexorable Union advance would “lay siege” to Nashville. Hood’s army right (east). His troops were but lightly rolled up Hood’s entire line. By nightfall, the numbered only 21,000 men. They were far entrenched, and were badly over-extended. Army of Tennessee only existed as a fleeing too few to actually surround and invest the The first shot was fired from Fort Negley to mass of men, with only Lee’s Corps retaining town. They lacked the artillery, tools, and announce the advance, and the bulk of any sense of order. manpower to properly besiege the town. They Thomas’ attack fell on Hood’s left. Although a could not prevent additional supplies and diversionary assault by Major General James Franklin: December 17th reinforcements from reaching Thomas, and B. Steedman’s United States Colored Infantry On the night of December 16th, the Confeder- two divisions of hardened western veterans was repulsed on Hood’s right flank, Hood’s ate rear guard under Lieutenant General detached from the Army of the Tennessee left flank was crushed in heavy fighting. Stephen D. Lee camped about seven miles under the command of Major General Andrew Thomas’ right flank alone contained more men north of Franklin. The soldiers were weary and Jackson Smith arrived in the city. Hood further than Hood’s entire army. poorly supplied as in their rush to retreat from blundered when he detached Nathan Bedford Nashville, many had abandoned their equip- Forrest with most of his cavalry and a brigade The night of December 15th, Hood withdrew ment and muskets along the way. On the rainy of infantry to besiege a Federal garrison his army to a more consolidated position just morning of December 17th, the Confederates fortified in the town of Murfreesboro. north of the John Overton Home, “Traveller’s left around dawn. As they marched toward Rest.” Hood’s left flank was anchored on an Franklin, Lee’s men had two encounters with The Union commander, Major General George eminence today known as Shy’s Hill, just west Federal troops. The first took place around H. Thomas, was forced to delay his attack on of the Granny White Pike, while his right flank Hollow Tree Gap about five miles north of Hood for two weeks. He had to re-organize was anchored on a hill due north of Travellers Franklin and consisted of a brief volley of fire and re-equip his cavalry which had either been Rest and east of the Franklin Pike, known as at a portion of Union Major General James dismounted, or had been roughly handled by Overton or Peach Orchard Hill. Thomas’ Wilson’s advanced cavalry. A more serious Forrest north of the Duck River. Furthermore, attack was slow to be delivered. On the Union action occurred around 9:00 a.m. as two many of Thomas’ soldiers had been on left (east) flank Steedman’s division would mounted Federal regiments attempted a fron- garrison duty in middle Tennessee and launch another gallant attack. So determined tal charge on the Confederate line. The Con- northern Alabama, and they were not was this assault, although only a diversion, federate troops, however, were able to repulse organized into brigades or divisions. Thomas that Confederate Brigadier General James T. the attack, which resulted in twenty-two Fed- had barely made his preparations for an attack Holtzclaw would openly praise the valor of the eral casualties and an additional sixty-three

______the battle’s aftermath Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 9 of 73 ______The Battles Aftermath Franklin from the west. Around 1:00 p.m., the their way across the West Harpeth River. As captured. As more Federal troops advanced, Confederate rear guard under the command the Confederates stopped to reorganize, Lee’s rear guard withdrew around 10:00 a.m. of Lieutenant General Stephen D. Lee began Wilson’s men struck again. By this time to press on to the Harpeth River and into to withdraw toward Winstead Hill south of darkness had fallen and both sides were Franklin. Franklin. As some of Wilson’s cavalrymen confused. The Federal cavalry were nearly on fired volleys towards them, a shell tore into top of the Rebel infantry when the firing began. Two bridges spanned the Harpeth River Lee’s boot breaking several bones in his foot. The ensuing melee was brutal as most took offering quick passage into Franklin – a Despite his injury, Lee remained in command the form of hand-to-hand combat with clubbed temporary pontoon bridge and a railroad as the Confederates withdrew south down muskets and side arms. The darkness and trestle bridge near Fort Granger. By 10:30 Columbia Pike. Wilson regrouped his forces the fact that many Confederates wore a.m., the last of the Confederate wagons were and sent troops down Carter’s Creek, captured Federal overcoats added to the crossing the bridges over the Harpeth River Lewisburg and Columbia Pikes in pursuit of confusion. When additional units joined the and troops had begun to disassemble the the Confederates. Federal troops traveling Federals the Confederates were forced to pontoon bridge when Wilson’s cavalry down Columbia Pike quickly gained on the retreat down Columbia Pike and abandoned attacked. Brigadier General Randall Gibson’s Rebels who maintained a line of battle as they three 12-pounder guns along the way. They Brigade of 500 Louisiana infantrymen was headed toward Spring Hill. Around 4:00 p.m. soon encountered Major General Henry positioned near the river and the railroad the Confederate rear guard formed a line about Clayton’s Brigade, who, after hearing the overpass at Liberty Pike. Assisting Gibson one mile north of the West Harpeth River. gunfire, had formed a line to assist their fellow was a portion of Brigadier General Abraham Confederates. As Stevenson’s men joined Buford’s cavalry and two field guns. The Wilson ordered a frontal attack on the them, the Rebels were attacked from the west Confederate soldiers were no match, Confederate line and sent brigades to swing by additional Federal cavalrymen. A quick however, for the nearly 3,000 Federal cavalry. around the line’s flank. Around 200 cavalrymen round of fire from Clayton’s men soon Buford’s cavalry was driven “in confusion into swiftly advanced south down Columbia Pike repulsed the Federals, and the Confederates the river,” which was quickly rising due to the toward the center of the Confederate line in a continued to withdraw. Exhausted, the rainy weather. Surrounded, Gibson’s men column of fours, sabers drawn. With the Confederates withdrew to Thompson’s fought back and sustained forty casualties flanking brigades, the Federal line stretched Station where they camped with the remainder before escaping. Panic and confusion reigned nearly one and half miles long. Some 700 of Lee’s troops. as men fled across the pontoon bridge. Confederate infantrymen were posted along the road under the command of Major General A series of skirmishes were fought from the A Confederate battery positioned along Front Carter L. Stevenson. As the Federals attacked West Harpeth River south to the Tennessee Street in Franklin began to fire upon Wilson’s the fighting was brief but fierce. “They River, as Wilson’s cavalry and the remainder cavalry causing them to temporarily draw swooped down on us with pistols, carbines, of Thomas’ army pursued Hood’s army. The back. Lee’s men rushed to destroy the and sabers, hewing, whacking, and shooting,” retreat would finally end on January 1, 1865 pontoon and railroad bridges to prevent the one Confederate officer later recalled. when Hood’s army crossed the Tennessee Federal troops from crossing. Given this brief Stevenson’s men repelled this charge and River. What was left of the Army of Tennessee respite, Lee ordered the immediate evacuation formed three ragged lines of a hollow square was eventually sent to the Carolinas to contest of Franklin. No longer having the bridges as they withdrew with their bayonets drawn. Sherman’s advance. available, Wilson’s men hastened to the nearest fords to beat the rising water. The Federal cavalrymen continued to strike See Appendix C for more on these sites. Meanwhile, additional Federal troops entered against Stevenson’s troops as they made

______The Battle’s afteremath Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 10 of 73 ______Key Themes “On visiting General The following key interpretive themes have The many names, dates, actions and other Carter,... my conversation been identified for the Battle of Franklin: facts related to the Battle of Franklin are ex- with him was exceedingly tensive and often difficult to comprehend. To interesting. But his Hood’s Recklessness paroxysms of pain were tell the story of the Battle of Franklin to the frequent and intense and By late-1864, many generals concluded that public in a clear and interesting manner, it is he craved chloroform the accuracy of modern weapons made fron- critical that key themes be identified to serve and it was freely adminis- tal assaults against entrenched defenders ob- as the overall framework for interpretation. tered to him.” solete. General Hood’s multiple charges dis- The story of the battle should always be - Dr. Quintard, surgeon regarded that painfully learned lesson. thought of in terms of those key themes, and 1st Tennessee one example theme is the loss of the Confed- John C. Carter Effectiveness of the Union Army erate generals, as highlighted below. “De last time I seen While some credit poor Confederate decision- Marse States he wuz on making for the Union victory, Schofield’s army foot... leading hiz men. clearly performed bravely and efffectively in “I recognized the body of [His horse] Joe had been defending their lines. One example of their Gen. Cleburne, who, so shot through de neck, en abiltiy was the quick actions of Opdykes men wuz rearing en plunging far, had been reported in plugging the hole that developed in their lines ...missing. There was not so he had ter dismount... a sign of life anywhere, When it got so hot, I went at Columbia Pike. and the deathly silence back ter our tent.” was oppressive, I bent - “Uncle Wiley” Howard The Level of Carnage down, and as I looked Gen. Gist’s body servant The casualties inflicted were substantial given into the marble features States Rights Gist the fact that the battle lasted only five hours. of our hero, our ideal During that period, nearly 7,000 Confederates soldier, my first thought “...a ball struck him in alone were casualties. was to have the body the cheek and passed taken to a place of through his brain. The Loss of Confederate Generals safety.” Throwing his hands to - John C. McQuaide, his face he sank down on Five Confederate generals were killed during Featherston’s Brigade his knees and remained the battle, not including a few others who died in that position...” from wounds from the battle some time later. Patrick Cleburne - Lt. Mangum Those losses were indicative of the overall Cleburne’s aide-de-camp “One of my men gave him level of carnage caused by the battle. a canteen of water, while Hiram B. Granbury another brought... a Western Theater: Beginning of the End pillow. The General “...General Strahl was Most historians agree that the blow dealt to gallantly thanked them, struck; and throwing Hood’s army at Franklin resulted directly in the and, in answer to our both hands above his army’s complete route at Nashville. After the expressions of sorrow..., head, almost to a clasp, battles of Franklin and Nashville, the Army of he said, ‘It is the fate of a he fell limber on his Tennessee was never again a credible fight- soldier to die for his face...” county,’ and expired.” - Sgt. Maj. Cunningham ing organization. - Lt. Col. Baker, 41st Tennessee 65th Indiana

______John Adams Otho Strahl key themes Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 11 of 73 ______Key Themes

Community As Hospital Hundreds of wounded soldiers, primarily Con- federates, were left in Franklin after both armies moved on to Nashville. While some were picked up as the Army of Tennessee retreated south through Franklin after the Battle of Nashville, others were left to be sent by Union forces by rail to Nashville hospitals. Still With the exception of African Americans being free, others that could not be moved spent several post-war agriculture in the South did not look months recuperating in Franklin. noticably different than prior to the Civil War.

Occupied Franklin While control of Franklin changed hands multiple times throughout the war, the average citizen was most effected when the Federal forces controlled the community. Enemy occupation could be harsh on residents, particularly with respect to having their property con- fiscated for use by the army. This theme focused on average citizens is often more relevant to the typical heritage tourist or Franklin resident than are the stories of Civil War com- Although Reconstruction brought some temporary political clout to African Americans, the lives of most bat. did not change dramatically following the Civil War.

Reconstruction Post-war Franklin went through many of the same political, economic and cultural experi- ences as that of communities all across the South. Many broad issues related to nation- wide Reconstruction can be interpreted in Franklin. One very tangible legacy of Recon- struction in Franklin is the historic Natchez Street Neighborhood.

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 12 of 73 ______Historic Photographs

The Battlefield The carter house The Cotton gin

Source: U.S. Army Military History Institute Source: U.S. Army Military History Institute

A small segment of Columbia Pike can be seen at This circa 1884 view of the Carter House illustrates Source: U.S. Army Military History Institute the far left of this circa 1884 view looking south new brick construction in the roof gable of the dam- This circa 1884 photograph of the rebuilt cotton gin toward Winstead and Breezy Hills. aged north facade. is viewed from the south, as Southern troops would have viewed it.

Source: U.S. Army Military History Institute Source: U.S. Army Military History Institute The photograph above is looking north toward Ft. Taken sometime in the late-19th century, this front Granger from Carter’s Hill circa 1884. view of the Carter House includes a reconstructed fence along the building’s Columbia Pike frontage.

“I could not tell for several minutes which were prisoners, the rebs. or ourselves, each

ordering the other to surrender, and many Source: Five Tragic Hours: The Battle of Franklin, McDonough & Connelly (1983) on each side clubbing their guns and Late-19th century photograph of the rebuilt cotton chasing each other around the houses.” gin. - Major Huffman, 73rd Illinois Source: U.S. Army Military History Institute This circa 1884 view of the battlefield looks much as it had twenty years earlier.

______historic photographs Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 13 of 73 ______Historic Battlefield Map

The map at right was prepared during the early -1890s by the U.S. military as a supplement to the Official Records of the Great Rebellion, commonly referred to today as the “O.R.s.” It is based upon the recollections and numerous offical accounts of the battle by various federal generals involved with the Battle of Nashville. Because most of the key physical features of the battlefield, such as streets, the railroad and the river, have not changed with respect to their locations and general alignments, maps such as this one are valuable in determining how the historic battlefield relates to modern Franklin. The next several pages will examine the current physical condition of the core battlefield areas. historic Battle map Although its orientation with the south at the top is confusing, this US military map from General Jacob Cox’s book shows the full width of the battlefield, including the McGavock property on the east flank. ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 14 of 73 ______Physical Evolution of the Battlefield one century later. While the southerly portion of the battlefield contains commercial, industrial and residential development built within The map below (left) illustrates that, even a the past 50 years, most of the development half century after the Battle of Franklin, the closest to the Union defensive positions is his- town had not grown extensively compared to toric and significant in its own right. In fact, today’s Franklin. For example, although the area’s four historic districts include the neighborhoods were starting to spring up Hincheyville district, the Natchez Street dis- around the Carter House, it was still essen- trict, the Adams Street district and the tially located on the southern edge of the com- Lewisburg Avenue district. Even if enough munity. funding and willing sellers were available to acquire and clear land of post-Civil War de- This house sits on or near the Carter cotton gin On the other hand, the vast majority of the velopment, such action would be inappropri- site. Unlike most houses in the area, it has been battlefield has been developed approximately ate and likely not approved by the City. moved to the site and could be moved yet again. PHYSICAL EVOLUTION OF THE BATTLEFIELD

The small black dots on this 1908 map represent The Union main defensive lines are illustrated above superimposed over a modern tax map. The lines and buildings. adjacent areas of the heaviest fighting now traverese four separate historic districts.

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 15 of 73 ______The West Flank Columbia Pike. The land north of the on historic properties. A number of buildings subdivision was owned by Battle Ground along Main Street are located in the Academy, which was established in 1889 as Hincheyville Historic District which was listed Attack of Cheatham & Lee a boys school, and land to the south was on the National Register of Historic Places in To the west of the Columbia Pike, Bates devoted to the fair grounds. In 1909, the 1982. A large area along Natchez Street was Division of Cheatham’s Corps attacked along Lynnhurst subdivision consisting of eleven lots also listed on the National Register in 2003 a front between what is now Natchez Street was established just west of Carter’s Creek for its architectural and historical significance. and West Main Street (Carters Creek Pike). Pike (now West Main Street) by the American This district’s history can be linked to the Battle This terrain was characterized by open fields Land Company. Just north of this, the thirty- of Franklin by virtue of Franklin’s experience except for a dense grove of locust trees to six lot Thorner and Cannons Addition was with Reconstruction, as it is a historically the southwest of the Carter House. The locust created in 1911 between what is now West African American neighborhood. grove was a dense thicket of vegetation and Main and Natchez Street. Here Bates’s was a natural barrier to the attacking Division of Cheatham’s Corps and Johnson’s Reclamation of the battlefield should not be Confederate troops. Advancing after sunset, Division attacked the Union front suffering at the expense of properties listed, or Bate’s three divisions temporarily broke the hundreds of casualties. determined eligible for listing, on the National Union line but were driven back with heavy Register of Historic Places. Given the extent losses. Later that evening around 9:00 P.M., By the late 1920s, the area along Natchez of development and number of historic Edward Johnson’s Division of Lee’s Corps Street and adjacent streets were lined with properties along the West Flank, it is was ordered to attack and they hit the Union dozens of dwellings. The 1928 Sanborn recommended that reclamation efforts be line between the locust grove and Natchez Insurance Map of the city shows most lots focused elsewhere. Street. This assault was also unsuccessful developed in this area. During the 1940s, a and cost Johnson’s Division over 500 total of sixty-six lots were developed for the casualties. Eastview Subdivision along W. Main Street, and a few blocks to the northwest forty-six Todays Landscape lots were created for the West End Circle The landscape comprising the West Flank subdivision. Two lots in the Eastview remained largely open farmland until the late development allowed for a market, gas station, 19th century. By the 1870s several brick and or similar business. Infill construction in this “I began to reflect upon the role of the frame dwellings were constructed along Fair vicinity continued well into the late 20th century. battlefield’s caretaker. Not just co-owner, Street and West Main Street in the vicinity of but caretaker. The battlefield needed the Union earthworks. These dwellings were Opportunities for someone to look after it if it was to built within the Hincheyville subdivision and are Reclamation remain meaningful in the onslaught of a part of the Hincheyville Historic District. The West Flank of the Franklin Battlefield future that all but dismissed its non- offers little in the way of realistic reclamation. commercial value. It needed a personal During the first decade of the twentieth century, There are no large undeveloped parcels in this input, something akin to love, the surest a number of new subdivisions were created vicinity and the character of this area is that method of preservation, but by no means in the West Flank area. The largest of these of a dense residential community. The only the easiest or the cheapest.” was between Columbia Pike and Carter’s way to reclaim any part of this section of the - Peter Svenson, land owner and author of The left flank Creek Pike. Appropriately named Battle battlefield would be the purchase and removal “Battlefield: Farming a Civil War Ground Park, this 1911 addition consisted of of existing buildings. This would be not only Battleground” fifty-four lots along two blocks directly west of costly, but there would also be adverse effects

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 16 of 73 ______The West Flank

The map below illustrates the attack of Bates and Johnson’s divisions against the Union right flank. This portion of the battlefield was pri- Carter House marily to the east of Carters Creek Pike and west of the action that centered around Co- lumbia Pike. Today it consists of relatively dense and historic residential development, as well as some commercial and institutional land uses. The street system is a mixture of gridded sections and random alignments, but it generally follows the historic development patterns of the area. Area “A” on the map below, circled in yellow, is the Carter House property. This view of the area immediately west of the Carter House reveals a combination of public facilities and housing. .

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 17 of 73 ______Columbia Pike Gist Streets, honored Confederate officers, developments in the 1950s, residential while others, such as Cannon Street and housing covered most of the main battlefield Attack of Cleburne & Battle Avenue, reflected the combat itself. area along Columbia Pike. In addition to the Browns Divisions residential development, several commercial Some of the battle’s most intense action took The heaviest fighting along Columbia Pike buildings were also constructed in recent place along the Columbia Pike when took place on the Fountain B. Carter farm. In decades, most notably the commercial cluster Cheatham’s Corps attacked the federal the early 1890s, Fountain’s son, Moscow B. at Cleburne Street and Columbia Pike. defenses. Two divisions, led by Major Carter, subdivided the area north of the house Generals John Brown and Patrick Cleburne, into residential lots. In 1889, Battle Ground Opportunities for advanced northward from Winstead Hill along Academy was founded and constructed a Reclamation either side of the Columbia Pike. These large brick building at the corner of Columbia Although there is little open space along the divisions first encountered the two advanced Pike and Cleburne Street. This building was Columbia Pike in the core battlefield area, there Union brigades of Brigadier General George destroyed by fire in 1902, and the school was are two primary areas which hold promise for Wagner, which were posted on a rise south relocated to its present location along substantial reclamation. One of these is the of the main federal defenses. These two Columbia Avenue. During the 1920s, the land Old Franklin High School gymnasium site brigades hastily retreated to the main defense east of Columbia Pike and south of Cleburne north of the Carter House. It was from this line with the Confederate troops in hot pursuit. Street was divided into fourteen lots as the point that Opdycke’s Brigade launched their After breaking the main Union line along the Cleburne Addition. counterattack which halted the advance of Columbia Pike, heavy fighting took place Brown’s and Cleburne’s Divisions. This parcel around the Carter House as Wagner’s third During the late 1930s, five more subdivisions presently contains school buildings from the brigade under Brigadier General Emerson were created along either side of the mid-20th century. Their removal would allow Opdycke counterattacked to blunt the Columbia Pike. The majority of this acreage for a substantial parcel of 2.6 acres to be Confederate advance. Cleburne was killed, was east of Carter’s Creek Pike near the incorporated into the Carter House site and Brown was wounded, and thousands of already developed Battle Ground Park. Here returned back to its appearance during the troops in their divisions became casualties 143 residential lots were drawn in the battle. during the fighting, which lasted into the night. Everbright, School Manor, and Sunset Manor Subdivisions between 1937 and 1939. Also The second potential site for reclamation is Todays Landscape in 1937, the Hillcrest and Battlefield the area around the site of the Carter Cotton As the town of Franklin grew during the late- Subdivisions, with seven and sixteen lots Gin north of Cleburne Street and east of nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries, the respectively, formed east of Columbia Pike Columbia Pike. An undeveloped lot of just over area along the Columbia Pike gradually The Hillcrest development was north of one-half an acre is located at the dead end of became subdivided into a series of largely Cleburne Street and the Battlefield Parkview Drive. This lot encompasses part residential neighborhoods. Developers were Subdivision consisted of two blocks east of of a swale which was just to the northeast of typically prominent local businessmen and Columbia Pike north of Gist Street. the Carter Cotton Gin site. Accounts of the land development companies who sometimes battle suggest that this swale helped to shelter purchased family lands from heirs. In 1949, the Hill Addition added twenty-four wounded soldiers and Confederates taken Subdivisions often bore the names of the lots one block east of Columbia Pike near prisoner. To the south and southwest of this columbia pike developer or original land owner, but the Carter House, and the Meadowlawn lot are three dwellings facing Cleburne Street sometimes the land’s Civil War history was Subdivision with thirteen lots was formed one and a ca. 1960 commercial building at acknowledged through the naming of streets. block east of Columbia Pike along Adams Columbia Pike. The building at 109 Cleburne Many, such as Cleburne, Stewart, Adams, and Street. Following a few more small was moved to this site, and 111 and 113

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 18 of 73 ______Columbia Pike recommendations have not been adopted by the County, and a new public library was Cleburne Street are bungalows that do not recently developed on the site. The future of possess notable architectural or historical the rest of the BGA campus is currently under significance. These four buildings are located review. If this site is further developed, it is on the site of federal earthworks, the Carter recommended that some open space be Cotton Gin, and the approximate location of preserved and interpreted with wayside the death of Major General Patrick Cleburne. markers and exhibits that describe the action at the advanced Union line. The purchase and removal of these buildings, along with the existing lot on Parkview Drive, This old frame house at 109 Cleburne Street sits would create 2.5 acres of land which could on or very near the Carter cotton gin building, a key be returned back to its 1864 appearance. This landmark during the Battle of Franklin. Because initiative could include the possible the building was moved to this site, it could be reconstruction of the Carter Cotton Gin near moved again without significantly impacting its his- its original location, as well as reconstruction toric integrity. of federal earthworks. The reclamation of this land would also compliment the Carter House property across the street and create a greater sense of the era of the battle along Columbia Pike. While it would be expensive, the acquisition and A third area of potential reclamation was the clearance of these commercial buildings on the corner of Columbia Avenue and Cleburne Street subject of a study completed in 2003 for the has been a long-term objective of many battlefield Williamson County government. This study, preservationists in Franklin. “Phase I of an Interpretive Plan for the Battle of Franklin,” was intended to create a concept plan for the interpretation of the Battle Ground This mid-20th century house on Cleburne Street Academy (BGA) property owned by the sits just southwest of where the cotton gin is be- Williamson County government. The BGA lieved to have been. property contains a large portion of the advanced Union earthworks which were occupied by two brigades of Wagner’s Division at the onset of the battle. While most of this property was developed in the early 20th century for BGA, some open space remains along Columbia Pike. The plan called for the columbia pike removal of a number of buildings to make way This small green space at the end of Parkview Drive for an area of reconstructed earthworks, and is located just northeast of where the Carter cotton the rehabilitation of the BGA library into an gin is believed to have stood. interpretive center. As of June of 2004, these

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 19 of 73 ______Columbia Pike Carter House Carter House The map below illustrates the attack of Brown’s and Cleburne’s divisions against the Union middle. This portion of the battlefield consists primarily of older residential buildings and newer commercial buildings, as well as some commercial uses in historic residential buildings. It also includes institutional buildings such as the old BGA campus, the new County library, and the old brick Franklin High School gymnasium. Area “A” on the map below is the Old Franklin High School buildings, The area around the Carter House features a vari- Another view of the Carter House area on Columbia area “B” is the Cotton Gin site, and area “C” ety of commercial uses, including large parking lots. Pike. is the Carter House property. All three sites are circled in yellow.

C columbia pike

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 20 of 73 ______The East Flank By the 1920s, almost all of the lots in this area wayside exhibits and signage, use of this were developed and no remains of the Union property poses constraints due to its difficult fortifications are known to exist. The East access. The present owners are to be Attack of Stewarts Flank of the battlefield is now characterized commended for keeping this land preserved. Corps by residential areas containing historic homes The tract’s acquisition through purchase or To the east of Cheatham’s Corps, the three from the early-20th century. The area is easements is recommended in the future if divisions under the command of Lt. General composed of two historic districts: the the property is ever offered for sale. Alexander P. Stewart formed south and Lewisburg Pike Historic District, listed on the southeast of Carnton and advanced northwest National Register in 1988, and the Adams The second of these tracts is the former towards the federal line. As they marched past Street Historic District, listed in 1999. Willow Plunge property located at Lewisburg Carnton, Stewart’s troops began taking Pike and Carnton Lane. Willow Plunge, casualties from the artillery fire of Fort Granger Opportunities for opened in 1924, was the largest outdoor on the east side of the river. As they Reclamation concrete swimming pool built in the South. approached the Union line, Stewart’s three The East Flank provides the greatest The pool was closed in 1967, and all of the divisions crossed the railroad and advanced opportunities for battlefield reclamation in the buildings and structures associated with this on either side of the Lewisburg Pike. Stewart’s city. The area that was the site of the most property were removed. Located in the flood men ran into intense rifle and artillery fire as intense fighting along the Union fortifications plain of the Harpeth River, this large tract they encountered an Osage Orange hedge has been lost due to residential development contains open fields and a tree line. The and abatis in front of the Union line. Taking in the early-20th century. The Union line division of Major General William W. Loring heavy casualties, Stewart’s Divisions were extended through areas that are now the advanced across this property and sustained unable to achieve any success in penetrating Lewisburg Pike and Adams Street Historic casualties from artillery fire from Fort Granger the federal fortifications. Districts. However, four large open tracts and the main Union line. The Willow Plunge remain extant, and they offer opportunities for property offers an opportunity for an Todays Landscape interpretation and recreation of a true automobile pull-off with wayside exhibits. The The land containing the heaviest fighting along “battlefield.” proposed pedestrian path connecting the the Lewisburg Pike was subdivided at the turn Franklin Country Club property and the Collins of the century into residential lots. The earliest The first of these tracts is a 4.9 acre parcel Farm would go through the north edge of this subdivision established in this area was the composed of an open field and woodlands tract. McEwen Addition, which consisted of twenty- between Adams Street and the railroad. This seven lots west of Lewisburg Pike and south parcel is owned by several adjacent property The third and fourth tracts on the East Flank of what is now Fowlkes Street. Prominent owners and it is currently open space. The are the Collins Farm and the Franklin Country businessman John B. McEwen subdivided the brigades of Major General Edward Walthall Club. Because of the importance of these property in the late-1890s and by 1900 had advanced across this land during the battle two tracts, they are examined in more detail sold at least eight lots. The plat for the property sustaining casualties from artillery fire. This later in this plan. recognizes that the addition is “Over The tract is not readily accessible. However, a Battle Field.” Additional lots were subdivided closed alley is shown leading to this property later on the east side of the pike. In 1903, this from both Adams Street and Stewart Avenue.

section of Lewisburg Pike and Adams Street The parcel is bounded on the north, west, and The Right Flank was sufficiently developed to warrant its south by the rear yards of adjacent houses, inclusion into the city limits. and on the east by the right-of-way of the railroad. While offering some opportunities for

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 21 of 73 ______The East Flank The railroad, which is aligned along a north- south axis, is another key feature, and there The map below illustrates the attack of are some isolated open spaces flanking ei- Cleburne’s and Loring’s divisions against the ther side of it. Two such spaces are circled Union left flank. This portion of the battlefield in yellow in the map below, in addition to Wil- consists primarily of both older and newer low Plunge, located to the southeast of those residential neighborhoods, as well as a few spaces. Areas “A” and “B”, both circled by a commercial buildings along Lewisburg Pike. black dashed line, are the old Franklin High There are also some light industrial uses im- School property and Cotton Gin site, respec- mediately south of the Collins Farm property. tively. This field is part of the 4.9-acre tract left undeveloped between Adams Street and the railroad (la- beled on the map as “Fields & Woods”).

The former site of the Willow Plunge swimming pool consists of open space adjacent to Lewisburg Pike. The Right Flank This open space is the westerly portion of the Collins Farm property and is bound on the west by the railroad tracks.

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 22 of 73 ______Land Use & Development Trends Industrial Area Most of the lands flanking Columbia Pike south of Downs Boulevard feature light industrial Based upon the battlefield’s existing land uses, uses. Lands extending further from either it can be segmented into three general areas: side of Columbia Pike include residential, ag- commercial, residential and industrial. While ricultural, vacant land, a golf course, and a his- there are plenty of exceptions with respect to toric house museum (Carnton). The newly other land uses within these various areas, developing retail center at Columbia Pike and below is a general overview of each: Mack Hatcher may impact land uses in that area by causing a shift toward more retail Development pressures remain strong within the Commercial Area uses. battlefield area, especially along Columbia Pike Commercial land uses are most concentrated where “big box” retail is currently locating. along Columbia Pike along the segment that was within the Union lines (between the Carter House and downtown). Unlike the other two land use areas, commercial development does not tend to extend much beyond Colum- bia Pike. Most of the development is in the form of relatively small scale retail and service businesses. Its physical character is a mixture of pre-1950s urban form in which the buildings front closely onto the street in contrast with post-1950s development that is more “strip commercial” in nature with large signage and parking in the front. Landscaping is very minimal in the commercial area. Develop- ment pressures in this area appear to be minimal, and the limited new development that has occurred here in recent years appears to reinforce the existing patterns. General Battlefield Area

Residential Area Along Columbia Pike, this area extends approximately from the Carter House to Downs Boulevard, and it consists of older single-family homes dating between the late-nineteenth and early-twentieth centuries. The exception to this pattern is the subdivision near Carnton land use & developmnet trends Plantation and the Franklin County Club, which is more recent and suburban in character. Source: Franklin 2004 Land Use Plan

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 23 of 73 ______Land Values These two value comparisons underscore the many variables noted previously that can im- Land Values pact values. There are four likely reasons for Land values in an area such as the battlefield the Werthan tract’s much higher value com- are a challenge to determine. Their value is pared with the country club: 1) It is zoned in- determined by many variables unique to them, dustrial rather than residential, 2) It is located including their specific location, zoning, size, on a key commercial street on which a major environmental constraints, and current state new retail development is occurring, 3) It is of development. Because property tax valua- only an asking price and may not actually be tions are not always consistent with current purchased for that amount, and 4) Much of market values, sales comparables are the best the country club site consists of floodplains. The Werthan tract is in the path of development way to evaluate land values. Two large par- currently marching down Columbia Pike. cels within the study area are examined below as comparables.

Sample Tracts

Werthan Tract This 64-acre tract is currently undeveloped. It is located on the west side of Columbia Pike and south of Downs Boulevard. Because the property is on the market and has not yet sold, only the asking price can be used as a land value basis. It is quite likely that the ultimate selling price will be less, but that price cannot be predicted. Below is a per-acre value estimation: $6,220,000 @ 64 acres = $97,188 per acre

Franklin County Club This 110-acre property was sold to a new owner in 2003. At the time of its sale, it was already developed with an 18-hole golf course, club house, tennis courts, various outbuildings, and parking. It is located on the south side of Lewisburg Pike and accessed off of Carnton Square. Below is a per-acre value estimation land values based upon its recent purchase price: $5,000,000 @ 110 acres = $45,455 per acre Although the country club is located in a strong residential area, much of the site consists of floodplains.

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 24 of 73 ______Public Policy: Plans, Phase I: Franklin Battlefield Interpretive Plan ern segment of this corridor, while providing a Zoning & Development (2003) This plan was commissoned by green edge to the southerly industrial end. Standards Williamson County and prepared by a con- sultant. The focus of the plan is the County- U.S. Highway 31 Battlefield Corridor Protec- Plans owned former site of Battle Ground Academy, tion Plan (1996) This plan was commissioned Several plans have been prepared during the a private school which has since relocated. by the Heritage Foundation of Franklin and past decade that impact historic resources re- Located south of the Carter House and ap- Williamson County and funded by the National lated to the Franklin Battlefield. Below is a proximately where General Wagner’s forward Park Service’s American Battlefield Protection chronological summary of each, starting with line existed, the site is developed with sev- Program. While the 42-mile “Battlefield Cor- the most recent. eral institutional buildings. Most recently, the ridor” extends between Nashville and Colum- new County Library was constructed in the bia, the “Planning Area” was limited to a point Central Franklin Area Plan (2004) northeast corner of the site. The plan pro- two miles north of Franklin to Spring Hill just This plan lays out a strategy for the downtown poses demolishing all buildings on the site north of the Saturn Parkway. The plan exam- area and surrounding historic neighborhoods. except the new library and the Old BGA Li- ines a variety of issues along the corridor, in- Chapter 6, entitled “Battlefield Preservation,” brary, which would be used as an interpre- cluding historic resources, natural features, focuses specifically on the battlefield. The tive center. Residential buildings to the south zoning and visual qualities. It also prioritizes three “Priority Actions” recommended include: would also be demolished, and the site would properties and offers a variety of techniques • Develop an organizational strategy that be interpreted with several wayside exhibits. for preserving and enhancing the area. Key places battlefield preservation efforts under recommendations include several interpre- a single entity led by the City Historic Preservation Plan (2001) tive wayside pull-off areas along Highway 31 and master plans for specific Civil War sites. • Identify funding sources for battlefield pres- This document addresses all aspects of preservation in Franklin. While it does not focus ervation and establish a network of sites to Winstead Hill and Fort Granger Study (1995) substantially on the battle and its resources, tell a coherent story of the battle This study included separate plans to physi- the plan does give it limited attention through- • Develop and implement a battlefield preser- cally enhance these two important sites. Is- out the plan. The plan’s recommendations vation plan sues included parking, pedestrian access and particularly relevant to the Franklin Battlefield interpretation. Portions of this study have been include the following: Franklin, Tennessee Land Use Plan (2004) implemented incrementally over time. This plan, adopted by the City of Franklin in • Develop a “community heritage center,” February of 2004, addresses the entire area which would focus primarily on serving resi- within Franklin’s designated Urban Growth dents, but also serve as a visitors center Excerpts from the Historic Boundary. It does not specifically address the • Improve the appearance of Columbia Pike Preservation Plan (2001) battlefield beyond the page on historic preser- given its concentration of historic resources “The Heritage Foundation is enhancing vation within the “Guiding Principles” section its advocacy efforts on behalf of pre- of the plan. The majority of the plan consists Columbia Avenue Design Guidelines (2000) serving the remaining battlefield lands... of defining various “Character Areas” and pro- Although this document is not technically a This... should receive the strongest viding a concept for each. The battlefield is plan, because it has never been adopted as possible support by the City and split up among several different character ar- public policy, it is addressed on this page. County... Finding ways to stem the loss eas, and there are no specific recommenda- Commissioned by the Heritage Foundation of Franklin’s cultural landscapes, tions that are substantially more impacting on of Franklin and Williamson County, these particularly remnants of the Franklin the surviving battlefield resources than the guidelines attempt to rebuild the historic ur- Battlefield, should be a high priority.” current land uses and zoning. ban fabric that once characterized the north ______public policy Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 25 of 73 ______Development Standards Public Policy: Plans, in both zones. Unlike commercial develop- Zoning & Development ment, which insists on high visibility from the The City of Franklin recently adopted devel- Standards street, there are often opportunities for screen- opment standards that apply city-wide and are ing industrial sites with landscaping. intended to raise the quality level of new development. The standards also attempt to Zoning High Residential (HR) & Med. Residential (MR) reinforce a more urban and historic develop- The battlefield area’s zoning patterns are rela- The HR zone dominates the area north of ment form within the city’s older (pre-WWII) tively consistent with the existing land use map Downs Boulevard and west of the rail line, areas. The most significant aspect of these on page 23. Below is a summary of the zon- while the MR dominates the area east of the standards for the battlefield are their potential ing categories most prevalent on the battle- rail line. Both zones are limited to single-fam- to enhance the appearance of commercial cor- field: ily houses. HR permits 3 units per acre, and ridors such as Columbia Pike. However, they MR permits 2 units per acre. Setback require- do not go as far as the Columbia Avenue De- General Commercial (GC) ments are based upon the street type, and sign Guidelines would in enhancing that corri- This zoning classification is limited to four maximum building heights are 35 feet in both. dor if they were adopted by the City. nodes in the battlefield area: north end of Co- lumbia Pike (around the Carter House), near the Columbia Pike and Downs Boulevard intersection, near the Columbia Pike and Mack Hatcher Parkway, and on West Main Street north of Downs Boulevard. The zone permits a variety of commercial uses, the maximum permitted floor area ratio (FAR) is .30, minimum front yards are 30 feet, and maximum building heights are 35 feet. GC encourages the type of “strip commercial” development that many consider to be in stark contrast to the desired character for a historic landscape.

Light Industrial (LI) & Heavy Industrial (HI) These two classifications apply to most battlefield lands located south of Downs Boulevard and west of the railroad line, and much more General Battlefield Area land is designated LI than HI. LI permits the same types of commercial uses as the GC, in addition to light industrial uses. HI does not permit most small-scale commercial uses, but does permit all types of assembly and manu- facturing. The maximum permitted FAR for both zones is .40. The minimum front yard is 75 feet in the LI zone and 30 feet in the HI zone. The maximum building height is 35 feet Source: City of Franklin Zoning Map

______public policy Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 26 of 73 ______Challenges & Opportunities Opportunities in the project’s various meetings. Also, the While the battlefield’s challenges are City of Franklin is in the process of approving considerable, there are many reasons for the issuance of a $10 million bond, for which Challenges optimism, including the following: The following key challenges currently exist $2.5 million is earmarked for acquiring the Franklin Country Club site from the current for the battlefield and preservation efforts: Recent Golf Course Acquisition owner. While another $2.5 million must be A descendant of the McGavock Family raised, it is the owners’ reported intention to Development Pressure purchased the 110-acre Franklin Country use their replenished funds to target other The current development of the shopping Club in 2003. Although it presently continues battlefield sites for preservation. center at Columbia Pike and Mack Hatcher to be used as a country club, the owner’s long- Parkway underscores the tremendous term goal is to transform it to its historic Effective Preservation Organizations development pressures existing throughout appearance to the greatest extent possible. There are many groups that support the Franklin, and particularly on Columbia Pike. It Its adjacency to Carnton Plantation and the preservation of the battlefield, most of which is likely that this new development will Confederate Cemetery will add tremendously are listed on page 3 of this plan under reposition this corridor in the broader real to the site’s interpretation. Furthermore, “Stakeholder Participation.” In particular, the estate market and encourage further because fighting occurred on this property, it Heritage Foundation, this plan’s sponsor, has development in the area. can fill the void of a bonafide “battlefield” site a strong track record of preserving sites, such for visitors to experience. Lack of Connectivity for Resources as Roper’s Knob. The Save the Franklin The Civil War resources that have been well Battlefield Association is another especially preserved, such as Fort Granger, the Carter important and capable group for this project. House and Carnton Plantation, are geographically scattered and lack the kind of Key Preserved Sites connectivity that lends itself to a cohesive Although much of the battlefield has been lost understanding of the battle. to development over the years, a handful of jewels have survived. Sites such as the Lack of Funding Carter House, Carnton Plantation, Fort As is the case for many worthy causes, there Granger, Winstead Hill, and numerous is limited funding for battlefield protection. individual buildings, such as the Lotz House, Public sector grants are very limited, each tell a different and important story of the particularly for land acquisition. battle. The recent acquisition of the Franklin Country Club provides a major boost for battlefield preservation Potential for Site Linkages efforts. While the “lack of connectivity” is cited as a challenge for the battlefield, the potential exists Strong Political Support to more strongly tie together the various sites. Although this plan was commissioned by the In addition to the potential to aesthetically Heritage Foundation, it has received strong enhance main corridors and provide support from the local and state directional signage, greenway linkages are governments. Key officials representing all possible. In particular, land along the Harpeth Development pressures are the number one threat of these entities participated enthusiastically River and rail lines can be used to link sites. to the Franklin Battlefield. ______Battlefield Threats & opportunities Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 27 of 73 ______Past Battlefield Protection Efforts Original research produced battlefield maps and easement that is held by the Land Trust for a Battle of Franklin Driving Tour Map. Tennessee. The Heritage Foundation has future plans to donate their holdings to the City The Battle of Franklin was fought on the edge Profiles of America’s Most Threatened Civil of Franklin. of an urban area, and by the time national War Battlefields (1993 / revised 1998) - commemoration efforts were underway at the National Parks Service - American Battlefield Cotton Gin Site Purchase (1997) - The turn of the century, much of the lands Protection Program - a survey of the Nov 30, Heritage Foundation purchase an approximately comprising the battlefield had been developed 1864 and April 10, 1863 battlefields in Williamson half acre portion of the area known as the site or were highly valued. As a result no formal County. The maps defined the area that was of the Carter’s cotton gin, a key battlefield national “battlefield” was ever established. studied, and the boundaries of the core landmark and close to where Confederate When ceremonies were held at Franklin in battlefield areas. This study encompassed General Patrick Cleburne was mortally 1914 to commemorate the 50th anniversary dozens of Civil War Battlefields in several states, wounded. The Heritage Foundation hopes to of the battle, much of the battlefield was and is planned to be updated. add to this site with adjacent land acquisitions already subdivided for residential so that the story of the battle and the cotton development. Over the next several decades, Winstead Hill Park and Fort Granger Study gin’s role can be better told. no extensive efforts to preserve the Franklin (1995) – The City of Franklin sponsored a study Battlefield would take place. resulting in land being purchased on the north Preservation and Interpretation Plan for face of Winstead Hill. Fort Granger had been Civil War Resources in Tennessee (2000) - The significance of the battlefield was finally purchased by the City in the mid-1970s, and Sponsored by the Tennessee Wars recognized by the State of Tennessee when it the Winstead Hill acreage was purchased by Commission, this plan is both an overall state purchased the Carter House in 1951. The the City for a park. Interpretative signs were strategy and a “how-to” preservation guide for Carter House, Carnton, Fort Granger, and placed at both of these public parks. local governments and organizations. This plan Winstead Hill were all recognized as National defines five regional themes and six statewide Historic Landmarks in 1966 for their role during US Highway 31 Battlefield Corridor themes. The regional theme for Williamson the battle. In 1978, the Carnton Association Protection Plan (1996) - Sponsored by the County is “Hood’s Tennessee Campaign.” acquired the remaining land of the Carnton Williamson County Heritage Foundation with a Plantation and began restoration of the grant from the American Battlefield Protection A Master Plan for the Tennessee Civil War property. Since the early 1990s, interest in Program, this study identified all historic sites, National Heritage Area (2002) - In 1995, preserving and reclaiming sections of the including battlefield parcels, along US Highway Congress established a National Heritage battlefield has increased significantly. These 31 from the Mack Hatcher Parkway north of Areas program as part of its National Parks efforts include: Franklin to Saturn Parkway near Spring Hill. The Service. In 1996 Congress funded the study addressed preservation priorities, Tennessee Civil War National Heritage program Franklin Battlefield Conferences (1992, identified resources, land use and zoning, with the goal to establish a strategy, coordinated 1993, 1994) - These three conferences were highway frontage, set-back requirements, and with local governments and preservation sponsored by the City of Franklin, Williamson other characteristics. This plan has not yet been groups, for preserving and interpreting

County, the Heritage Foundation and other local adopted as a guide by the City or County. Tennessee’s Civil War era resources. After past Battlefield protection efforts groups to bring together business and historical public meetings across the state, this resultant groups to discuss methods of preserving Roper’s Knob Purchase (1996) - The State Master Plan helps local governments and battlefield resources and establishing heritage owns 22 acres of this important site, while the groups become part of the statewide tourism. The conferences generated much Heritage Foundation purchased 26.3 acres. preservation effort. interest for preserving Franklin’s Civil War sites. The Heritage Foundation gave a conservation

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 28 of 73 ______Past Battlefield Protection Efforts

Purchase of the Collins Farm (2001) - The Save the Franklin Battlefield Association purchased the Collins Farm on Lewisburg Pike in 2001. This 3.2 acre tract contains a historic dwelling and open space crossed by Loring’s Division during the battle.

Phase I of an Interpretive Plan for the Battle of Franklin (2003) - This study was Collins Farm commissioned by the Williamson County government to assess the preservation and interpretation of the property it owns at the former site of the Battle Ground Academy. This plan recommended the removal of numerous buildings, the re-creation of Federal fortifications, and conversion of the existing library building into an interpretive center.

Purchase of East Flank of Battlefield (2003) In 2003, a descendant of the McGavock Fam- ily purchased the 110-acre Franklin Country Club with the intention of eventually transforming the property back to its Civil War-era appearance. The owner hopes to recoup his investment by selling the property to the City Franklin Country Club golf course and other battlefield supporters so it can become a public battlefield park.

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 29 of 73 ______

Potential Preservation Measures but it is also the most costly approach, especially in areas that have experienced “We have to renew a commitment in inflated land values because of development ourselves in this generation to preserve Battlefield protection efforts can employ a wide pressures. Regardless, fee simple purchase the battlefields of this war, the same kind variety of measures, depending upon the is the most common form of battlefield of commitment that the veterans had that resource types and their circumstances. The protection used across the country. shed the blood on these places, and then following preservation methods are the types came back and then shed tears of most often relevant to Civil War battlefields: Conservation Easement Purchases camaraderie and memory in later years.” Conservation easements, sometimes • Fee-simple land purchases - Kathleen Georg Harrison referred to as scenic easements, are a tool • Conservation easement purchases National Park Historian that can be used to control one or more • Public policy measures (zoning, aspects of property development without development codes, etc.) having to actually purchase the parcel outright. Examples of some of the most successful • Landscape restoration (earthworks, To protect historic resources such as a use of conservation easement purchases can historic vegetation, etc.) battlefield, an interested party may purchase be found in Maryland. The Maryland • Building restoration a conservation easement so that a piece of Department of Natural Resources, through property remains in agricultural use or some its Program Open Space (POS), has While fee-simple land purchases and other undeveloped state. The easement purchased easements for numerous conservation easements are the two most owner or “holder” purchases the development properties comprising those portions of the common tools for land acquisition, it should rights to the property. The landowner Antietam Battlefield peripheral to the National be noted that there are several other legal continues to own the property. The property Park holdings. instruments available for controlling the rights remains in private hands and on the tax rolls. to real estate. Also, in addition to measures to Public Policy Measures preserve and restore battlefields, most Conservation easements “run with the land” In most cases, public policy measures, such planning efforts include strategies for and are, thus, binding on subsequent owners. as zoning, are of limited value for protecting enhancing the site for visitation, such as A property owner may benefit from the sale battlefields. It is extremely difficult in most improved access and the creation of parking of an easement through a lower property tax jurisdictions to generate the political will to facilities, as well as interpreting the battlefield burden. By limiting the development potential “down zone” property, in which the allowed through features such as wayside exhibits, of a parcel, a conservation easement residential density or commercial intensity is tour brochures, and interpretive centers. reduces the property’s market value and, in actually reduced from the current zoning. some cases, the associated tax liability. An Fee-Simple Land Purchases exception to this rule in Tennessee is land Cluster Zoning This land acquisition method is the most already benefiting from “green belt” One tool that is useful in some cases is cluster controlling and costly, as it extends the entire designation. The advantage of an easement zoning or “Open Space Development,” which “bundle of rights” to a land owner. Under fee purchase is that it is typically less expensive shifts development densities within a site so simple ownership, there are no limitations on than a fee simple purchase, depending upon that development is geographically the landowner’s ability to use their property land values. On the other hand, owners of concentrated so that more open space can other than those imposed by governmental conservation easements generally lack most be preserved. Franklin’s zoning has regulation. In light of battlefield protection of the other land rights gained through fee provisions for such approaches. Even that efforts, fee simple acquisition provides the simple purchases, such as unrestricted approach, however, can still result in greatest level of control of historic resources, access to, and use of, the land. substantial damage to battlefields, and it is

______potential preservation measures Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 30 of 73 ______

Potential Preservation Measures awareness of local planners to resource during the 1960s. Most sites, such as the protection issues. The NPS’s Cultural Franklin Battlefield, are not as blessed with Resources GIS Facility (CRGIS), which was such valuable materials. The restoration of best reserved for maintaining viewsheds that initiated in 1990 to map battlefield features, earthworks, such as those at Fort Granger, are adjacent to battlefield lands. utilizes Global Positioning Systems (GPS) as must be done with extreme care and under a high-tech means of transferring field expert supervision. Otherwise, attempts may Special Corridor Zoning observations into a spatial database that can result in more harm than good. The zoning tool having the greatest potential be electronically manipulated. The CRGIS for being effectively implemented is special may serve as a good source of technical Building Restoration corridor zoning. Because this type of zoning advice for the City of Franklin in mapping While the primary emphasis in battlefield focuses on what can be viewed from the road, battlefields. preservation tends to be on historic it sometimes permits substantial landscapes, surviving buildings can also be development to occur on a given property so Archeological Survey Requirement critical resources in telling the story of a battle. long as it is set back considerably from the At present, the City has no requirements for Many battlefields are not so fortunate as to road and screened with dense vegetation. archeological survey work prior to feature surviving buildings. However, for One exception to applying this approach is development approval. One option is for the those that are, such as the Franklin Battlefield, shallow parcels, in which case special City to require a survey for developments buildings that were used as officers corridor zoning can result in a legitimate within the delineated battlefield, or perhaps headquarters, post-battle hospitals, and hardship and “takings” claim. While this only the “core” battlefield area. An alternative similar functions provide one of the most approach provides limited value for to requiring such a survey for all tangible and vivid snapshots of a battle. While preservation, it is very beneficial for enhancing developments is to limit the requirement to some such structures are used as private the visitor experience. Special corridor zoning developments of a certain magnitude, such residences, those that are income producing is particularly appropriate for roads leading to as 10 acres or more. It is important to can benefit from the federal investment tax historic sites. Another type of corridor zoning recognize the difference between techniques credit for the rehabilitation of historic can be applied to more urban commercial applied to prehistoric habitational sites structures should a major restoration be areas. These standards do not attempt to compared to a nineteenth century battlefield. needed. This program provides a 20% tax visually screen development, but rather to credit for qualified rehabilitations based upon enhance the appearance of gateways to Landscape Restoration the following standards: battlefields. This type of approach was When considering landscape restoration • National Register designation or eligibility proposed for the Columbia Avenue Design efforts, it is recommended that The Secretary • Rehabilitation follows the Secretary of the Guidelines that were prepared for the Heritage of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation Foundation in 2000, but never adopted by the of Historic Properties with Guidelines for the • Project costs exceed the property’s City. Treatment of Cultural Landscapes (1996) be adjusted cost basis (cost of acquisition and consulted. A major challenge to restoring rehabilitation work to date) GIS Mapping historic landscapes is successfully • Property must be income producing (i.e., With respect to the planning program of the researching its original appearance. The commercial use or residential rental) local government, simply getting them to Stones River Battlefield in Murfreesboro, for include the location of battlefields within their example, has benefited greatly from research While a non-profit organization cannot benefit comprehensive plans, Geographic Information into historic maps and eyewitness accounts from the credit, income-producing ventures System (GIS) or other mapping systems is a of the battle that allowed the NPS to create a such, as bed and breakfasts, can. worthy starting point for heightening the relatively accurate historic landscape map ______potential preservation measures Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 31 of 73 ______

Defining the Battlefield core combat area “As the Confederate army began to file in In addition to the area under artillery fire, the between the two hills and to deploy right “Core Combat Area” is generally considered and left and take their positions in line, For the purposes of this plan, the battlefield the area of musket fire between the opposing the Confederate bands began to play has been delineated into two different areas, lines. A rifled musket could typically shoot with “Dixie,’ and a shout ... went up ...” as explained below and as illustrated on a map some level of accuracy a distance of 300 yards on the following page. It is noteworthy that, In the case of Franklin, the opposing lines - Hardin Figuers, 15 year old because it is impossible to pinpoint the exact shifted, as the Union “forward line,” which ex- Franklin resident location of where the battlefield and core com- tended just south of Battle Avenue, was bat areas begin and end, the map has inten- pushed back toward the Carter House early in tionally obscured those boundaries. the battle. Franklin’s core combat area is also “The Confederate army just below us was defined by artillery fire from Ft. Granger into passing along the [Columbia] pike, one battlefield area the Confederate right near Carnton Plantation. part filing to the right, the other to the left Battlefields are typically defined as the area in at the foot of the hill.” which opposing armies became aware of each - Dr. G. C. Phillips, surgeon, 22nd Mississippi others’ presence and began strategic manuvering in order to gain a competitive advantage for the ensuing combat. The battlefield area includes troop staging areas, battery positions, rear field hospitals, and the combat areas. It does not, on the other hand, include the routes over which armies traveled to reach the battlefield area. The battlefield area is often thought of as the “chess board” over which the opposing generals moved their respective armies in the game of warfare.

In the case of the Franklin Battlefield, a recent commercial development called into question how far south the battlefield extended. As the two quotes above to the far right verify, Franklin’s battlefield area undoubtedly extended as far south as Winstead and Breezy Hills. It was from those hills that the Confed- erate commanders deployed their troops. In fact, the battlefield area extends a considerable distance south of Winstead and Breezy Hills because fighting occurred there when the Confederate advance forces first encountered Union troops prior to the main fighting later in the day. The “Battlefield Area” can be thought of as the chess board on which opposing armies manuvered. ______defining the Battlefield Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 32 of 73 ______Defining the Battlefield

Note: Battlefield element labels surrounded by a blue dash-lined box are no longer existing intact. ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 33 of 73 ______Battlefield Master Plan 1 9

The following central ideas of the master plan 3 are explained on the subsequent pages in the order listed below (unrelated to priorities): 6 Develop a 1) Visitors Center for the city’s overall history and an 2) Interpretive Cen- ter for the Battlefield.

Expand the 3) Carter House site by linking with adjacent properties. 4 2 Develop a 4) Battlefield Park next to 5) Carnton Plantation by reclaiming and interpreting the existing golf course as an im- 5 portant part of the battlefield.

Enhance and interpret the 6) Collins Farm site.

Expand the 7) Winstead Hill trail system and protect 8) Breezy Hill from development.

Improve access, vistas and signage for 9) Fort Granger.

Enhance access and interpretation for 7 8 Ropers Knob and Cedar Hill (both north of the area shown in the map at right).

Interpret the many Downtown Buildings associated with the Battle of Franklin.

Link Franklin’s Civil War sites through a Greeway System, Directional Signage for roadways, reprinting the existing Driving Tour Brochure, and adopting the Colum- bia Avenue Design Guidelines.

______Battlefield master plan Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 34 of 73 ______

Franklin Visitors Center located to the city’s various sites and to leverage economic benefits for downtown’s businesses. Downtown needs public rest rooms It is recommended that a Visitors Center be anyway, and the Visitors Center can direct developed for both visitors and Franklin resi- vistors to the proposed Battlefield Interpretive dents to enjoy. Given the city’s rich and di- Center (see the next page). While selecting a verse history, the center should primarily in- Vistors Center site will require a specific site terpret Franklin’s broader history, in addition selection and feasibility study, the following ex- to addressing the Civil War in order to give the isting structures should be considered for Battle of Franklin a context. Ideally, the Visi- adaptive reuse, and they are listed in order of The former County Library is modern enough to tors Center should include the following fea- their perceived suitability based upon prelimi- accommodate state-of-the-art interpretive exhibits, tures: nary considerations (see the map below): and its location benefits downtown and is conve- nient to the Carter House. • Parking for at least 25 vehicles 1) Vacant County Library at Five Points • Bus loading area 2) Historic County Courthouse • Public rest rooms 3) Historic Railroad Depot • Interpretive exhibits • Orientation film One additional option might be the brick Greek • Staff to answer questions Revival antebellum bank building located on • Maps and brochures the north side of Main Street across from St. Phillips Catholic Church. It is privately owned It is recognized that a more limited visitors (see page 53 for a photograph). center may be necessary because of funding It is acknowledged that the County’s current constraints. A bare minimum should at least The fact that the historic County Courthouse served include rest rooms, interpretive exhibits and plans for the vacant library do not appear to as a hospital after the Battle of Franklin adds to brochures, with no staffing. accomodate a new visitors center. However, its appeal as a visitors center. Its location would given the building’s favorable attributes, it is also leverage economic benefits to downtown. It is recommended that the Visitors Center be worth an effort to strike an agreement with the located in or near downtown to be centrally County for a downtown visitors center.

1 Although the depot is currently occupied by a busi- 3 ness, it has many merits, including its Civil War history, proximity to nearby retail and Fort Granger, and plenty of space for parking. Source: Central Franklin Area Plan (2004) ______FRANKLIN VISITORS CENTER Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 35 of 73 ______Battlefield Interpretive Center In addition to featuring high-quality facilities, the Battlefield Interpretive Center should be pro- “It’s the visitor that completes the circle grammed for a wide range of activities that of memory, because every historic site is serve as a constant draw for visitors. Living simply dead without the visitor who It is recommended that a Battlefield Interpre- history demonstrations might include camp brings their own sense of what this place tive Center be developed on the current life, military drills, arms demonstrations and means and wanting to extract something Franklin Country Club adjacent to Carnton similar activities. from it, and it’s in the interplay between Plantation. As described in more detail on page site, and monument and visitor that these 41, it is recommended that all buildings com- places become alive.” prising the country club be removed, with the exception of the Club House. It is proposed - Edward T. Linenthal, author of that the Club House be adapted into the Inter- “Sacred Ground” pretive Center. The Battlefield Interpretive Center should include the following features: The Battlefield Interpretive Center’s exhibits • Parking for at least 40 vehicles should combine authentic Civil War artifacts • Bus loading area with high-technology interpretive approaches. An emphasis should be placed on interactive • Public rest rooms exhibits, including hands-on opportunities for • Interpretive exhibits children and computer stations for research- • Orientation film ing geneology associated with the Battle of • Staff to answer questions Franklin. • Maps and brochures

There are several reasons why the proposed location is well-suited, including its location on the eastern flank of the battlefield and its po- Living history demonstrations, such as military tential availability within the near future. manuvers, add greatly to the visitor experience.

Photograph Source: Atlanta History Center

Proposed InterpretiveCenter Although high-quality exhibits will require a mini- The only facility proposed to remain is the Club The Club House’s design eludes to the vernacular mum number of artifacts, the emphasis should be House for adaptation into an Interpretive Center. rural architecture of 19th-century Franklin. on the interpretive approach. ______BATTLEFIELD INTERPRETIVE CENTER Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 36 of 73 ______Carter House Area

Because of its strategic location at the center of the Union lines on Columbia Pike, the Carter House is considered to be the single most piv- otal location for the Battle of Franklin. Eyewit- ness accounts of the battle reference the Carter House and the associated Cotton Gin more than any other landmark of the battlefield. Adding to this significance is the history of the Carter Family, particularly the family’s ordeal in their basement during the battle, as well as the death of Tod Carter from wounds inflicted in the battle. “The position we occupied was just “Lieut. Frank H. Hale, of Company in front of the Carter house, and the H., succeeded in scaling the works Fountain Branch 50th Regiment actually tore down and crawled about twenty feet inside Carter, the Patriarch of the Carter Family, the Carter barn to help build our the Federal lines to the frame stayed with his breastworks... Our second line of house... that stood in the yard of the family in the Carter works joined on to the Carter Carter house, where he was killed House basement as smokehouse, which lay west of the with bullets from the guns of his own the battle raged outside. house.” regiment.” - Lt. Thomas Thoburn, 50th Ohio - W.J. Worsham, 19th Tennessee

Theodrick “Tod” Carter, a Captain with the Army of Tennessee, was mortally wounded approximately 150 yards southwest of the Carter House “The Carter Hill was the key “Serg’t. Lum Waller, of Com- smokehouse. He to any strong system of de- pany H, scaled the works and was found after the took shelter behind the brick battle and carried to fence in front of the town... his home, where he The house was of brick,... but smokehouse, just in the rear of died. not very high, as it was built of the dwelling, where he was one lofty and airy story...” wounded...” - U.S Brigadier General Cox - W.J. Worsham, 19th Tennessee

______CARTER HOUSE AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 37 of 73 ______Carter House Area The following recommendations are offered for Properties to the South the Carter House area: The two parcels between the Carter House and Strahl Street should be a secondary pri- OLD FRANKLIN HIGH GYM ority for the Carter House, as follows: Once this site becomes part of the Carter House site, the following measures should • The first priority of the two should the prop- be followed: erty directly adjacent to the Carter House site. • Demolition of the gymnasium and associ- • Once acquired, the existing structures ated parking areas should be relocated given their post-Civil • Restoration of the historic landscape, War architectural significance. including removal of vegetative buffering If acquisition of the property to the immedi- Based upon a completed land trade deal, the school • property to the immediate north of the Carter House between this site and the current Carter ate south is not possible, it is recom- will soon become part of the Carter House site. House site. mended that the strip of land between the • Installation of historic fencing Carter House property and the adjoining • Provision of one or more reproduction can- structure be controlled through either fee- nons to interpret the artillery battery posi- simple purchase or the purchase of an tioned on this site during the battle. access and conservation easement.

An important part of any of these recommendations is archeological field work. It should occur prior to any substantial physical work that might negatively impact resources.

Should the owners become willing sellers, the two properties immediately south of the Carter House would be tremendous additions once cleared.

Potential Easement If the properties south of the Carter House cannot be acquired, the strip of land on the south side of the frame office and brick smokehouse should be pursued for an access and conservation easement. This historic sketch of the Carter House property is consistent with historic accounts.

______CARTER HOUSE AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 38 of 73 ______Carter House Area historic house. For several years there have while enhancing the Carter House’s context. Lotz House been discussions about the acquisition of the Given the challenges involved, it is not recom- This Civil War era house, located across the two pizzarias located at the intersection of Co- mended as a near-term priority, but it is a high- street from the Carter House, witnessed in- lumbia Pike and Cleburne Street so the sites priority one. Any such work should incorpo- tense fighting during the battle. It is currently can be cleared of development. This action rate an archeological survey at the front end. used as an office and owned by someone in- would remove two high-profile visual intrusions terested in eventually creating a historic house museum. It is recommended that efforts be made to link the Lotz House with the Carter House, particularly once the old gymnasium site directly across from the Lotz House is physically integrated with the Carter House. The following steps should be taken: • Develop a crosswalk with special pavers across Columbia Pike to link the two sites • Cross-market between the two sites to encourage visitors to one site to visit the other • Coordinate interpretive strategies between Cotton Gin site and Restaurants located at Columbia Pike and Cleburne the two sites historic marker Street

Old Gym Property

Carter House Visitors Center

The Lotz House’s eventual development as a historic house museum will add to the overall visitor draw of the Carter House area. Two properties Cotton Gin Site to the south Although the gin building no longer exists, this site has great significance because of its role Carter House & in the battle as a major landmark. Located Outbuildings approximately 80 yards east of Columbia Pike on Cleburne Street, the site features a historic Lotz House

marker and is occupied by a post-Civil War CARTER HOUSE AREA ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 39 of 73 ______Carnton Plantation Carnton Plantation’s current stewards do an excellent job of managing and interpreting this Carnton Plantation was the home of the important site. Therefore, only the following McGavock Family during the Civil War. The recommendations are offered: family’s home was located on the eastern flank • After carefully considering an potential im- of the battlefield, just south of where some of pacts to archeological resources, plant a the heaviest fighting occurred. After the battle, dense row of indigenous evergreen trees, it became one of the key hospitals for wounded such as cedars, along the western edge of Confederates, and the bodies of Generals the property to provide a year-round visual Cleburne and Adams were laid out on the screen from the adjacent residential. home’s back porch. • Begin marketing and interpreting the expansive grounds of Carnton Plantation as a Today the house and its expansive grounds part of the battlefield to help fill the void that Carnton Plantation’s expansive grounds should be are owned by the non-profit Historic Carnton Franklin currently faces in not having a true marketed and interpreted as part of the Franklin Association, which operates it as a historic “battlefield” to tout for tourism. Battlefield. house museum. The Battle of Franklin and • Continue with the important archeological the house’s role as a hospital is a key focus of work currently occuring on the grounds im- the site’s interpretation. Great efforts have mediately south of the house in order to been made to return the site to its Civil War- better tell the story of the building’s origins era appearance, including the installation of a and evolution. garden and a board fence around the perim- eter of the house. “[Mrs. McGavock’s] house... was in the rear of our line. The house is one of the large old-fashioned houses of the better class in Tennessee, two stories high, with many rooms... This was taken as a hospital, and the wounded, in hundreds, were brought to it during the battle, and all the night after. Every room was filled, every bed had two poor, bleeding fellows, every spare space, niche, and corner under the stairs, in the hall, everywhere - but Front facade of Carnton Man- one room for her own family.” sion, which fea- - Captain William D. Gale tures a Greek Although the deciduous vegetation currently exist- Revival portico ing along the site’s western boundary provides sub- Adjunct General to Gen. Stewart’s staff stantial screening from new houses during most Army of Tennessee months of the year, evergreens are needed for a Resting place for generals’ bodies.

year-round complete screen. CARNTON PLANTATION ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 40 of 73 ______Battlefield Park “The ground embraced by The Country Club In 2003, a descendant of the McGavock Fam- of Franklin played a crucial role in the ily purchased the 110-acre Franklin Country Battle of Franklin. It was across this very Club with the intention of eventually transform- land that A.P. Stewart’s Corp advanced... all ing the property back to its Civil War-era ap- the time receiving enemy fire... every bit as pearance. The owner hopes to recoup his in- bloody and vicious as any fighting along vestment by selling the property to the City and The contrast between the Confederate Cemetery’s Columbia Pike..; this plot of land holds an appearance on the left versus the view on the right, other battlefield supporters so it can become with the country club’s tennis courts in the back- equal importance to our nation as any piece a public battlefield park. Although it is unclear ground, is dramatic. The eventual removal of most of battlefield.” when the land’s transformation will occur, the of these improvements will do much toward return- - Ed Bearss, Chief Historian, Emeritus - following recommendations are suggested: ing a sense of dignity to the cemetery. Landscape restoration will be aided by aerial photos taken prior National Park Service • As a first step to determine the acceptabil- to the golf course, as well as the golf course plans. ity of any subsequent work, prepare a Cultural Landscape Report and any needed archeological studies. • Prepare a Master Plan for the property that Recommended would remove intrusive existing improve- Evergreen Buffering ments and might answer the following types of questions: - Should the tennis courts, outbuildings, and some of the parking be removed? - Should grading and landscaping occur on the golf course to restore the historic terrain based upon research on its historic appearance? Carnton Mansion - Should the office and gift shop currently McGavock & Confederate located by Carnton Mansion be relocated to & Outbuildings Cemeteries the existing Club House? - Should the Club House be transformed into an Franklin Country Interpretive Center for the Battle of Franklin? Club Complex

The country club’s club house can serve multiple purposes for Carnton, including office space, interpretive exhibits, a gift shop, and rest rooms. ______battlefield park Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 41 of 73 ______Battlefield Park historic sites that can draw tourists, including Carnton Plantation is a National Historic Land- Although page 60 summarizes each key rec- historic house museums, a historic downtown mark property having a high level of integrity ommendation of this plan with respect to pri- and historic neighborhoods. Despite its rich and scenic value. Lewisburg Pike is also his- ority levels, it is worth noting the plan’s top pri- heritage, there is no bonafide “battlefield” to toric, retains strong aesthetic qualities and ority here: It is recommended that the top draw tourists. The Carter House and Carnton played an important role as a transportation battlefield priority for Franklin be the pro- each attract approximately 37,500 people an- route during the Battle of Franklin. The Harpeth posed transformation of the Franklin Coun- nually. The Stones River Battlefield in nearby River shares these same qualities with regard try Club into the Battlefield Park. This Murfreesboro attracts approximately 250,000 to its scenic value and historic signifance tied project has been identified as the top priority annually. Given its interstate access and directly to the battle. In contrast, the only other for the following four reasons in order of im- many great attractions, there is no reason relatively large and undeveloped land associ- portance: Franklin could not see similar visitation rates. ated with the battle is located on Columbia Pike, a road dominated with segments of strip com- The Battlefield Park is a once in a life-time The proposed Battlefield Park is a spring- mercial development, and an adjacent rock opportunity. Any good plan must be opportu- board for other nearby sites. Nearby sites quarry and factory. nistic, and so it is with battlefield preservation that can be leveraged include: plans. It has been many years since any op- • Carnton Plantation & Confederate Cemetery • Collins Farm portunity such as this one existed -- a large “The ground embraced by The Country Harpeth River & Future Greenway and significant battlefield site with an owner in- • Club of Franklin played a crucial role in terested in its preservation. Such an opportu- • Historic Lewisburg Pike the Battle of Franklin... this may well be nity will likely never occur again. Although no the last chance in our lifetime - the last development plans have been submitted, the The proposed Battlefield Park’s context chance future generations have - to zoning allows residential development. retains the highest level of integrity of any recover and preserve a significant portion other key Franklin Battlefield resources. of open space battlefield - and return it to The Battlefield Park fills the one glaring Primary boundaries for this property include battlefield - at Franklin.” void in Franklin’s current heritage tourism Carnton Plantation, the Harpeth River and his- package. Franklin boasts a broad range of toric Lewisburg Pike, all with great integrity. - Ed Bearss, Chief Historian, Emeritus, NPS

TODAY TOMORROW? .....OR TOMORROW?

______A FINAL THOUGHT Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 42 of 73 ______Collins Farm

During the Battle of Franklin, Confederate Gen- eral Loring’s Division traversed this property and was met by Union cannon fire from Fort Granger. After an unsuccessful charge upon the Union works, many of the Confederates returned to this place seeking the protection from enemy fire provided by a natural ravine. The non-profit Save The Franklin Battlefield, Inc. (STFB) purchased the 3.2-acre property on the Lewisburg Pike with the intention of preserving it as an important part of the battlefield. The property features an old house that The Collins Farm has evolved over the years with additions, as witnessed heavy well as a log outbuilding. It is uncertain whether fighting as part of Hood’s right flank. the house’s origins predate the Civil War. The Verification of the age of the property’s two buildings and their significance might determine the next following recommendations are suggested: steps that should be taken. • Conduct a historic structures report to determine the age of the property’s buildings. • If any of the structures date back to the Civil War, consider removal of all buildings and building sections dating after that era, and restore the original structures. • If all of the structures date from after the Civil War and are not eligble for the Natonal Register, consider their eventual removal.

With respect to conducting a historic structures report, STFB should consult with Middle Tennessee State University’s Center for His- toric Preservation to see if such a study could be provided at no or little cost through either the Center or the Tennessee Civil War National Heritage Area, which is administered by the Center. Also, it is acknowledged that STFB must still recoup the costs of purchasing the Collins Farm, so the current leasing of the dwelling for residential use may need to continue for several more years, if not indefinitely. The property’s current use for rental housing helps pay for the mortgage loan and upkeep. Collins farm ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 43 of 73 ______Winstead Hill Area

Confederate General John Bell Hood used the Harrison House, located south of Winstead Hill, as his headquarters during the Battle of Franklin. Because of their proximity and views, he used Winstead and Breezy Hills as observation points. Furthermore, as confirmed by Aerial view of the more recent parking area and Public rest rooms and bicycle racks from the more the historic accounts quoted on page 32, the trail system at the foot of Winstead Hill. recent improvements at the base of Winstead Hill. bases of Winstead and Breezy Hill were used as troop staging and deployment areas from which Hood’s numerous disasterous charges departed.

The Sons of Confederate Veterans owns the 17-acre portion of Winstead Hill that includes the observation shelter. The City owns another 67 acres surrounding it. A master plan was prepared for the park in 1995 and many improvements were added to the existing improvements, which already included a parking area, a paved path, an overlook shelter on the north slope of the hill, and interpretive markers. The second phase of improvements occurred further down the slope, including rest rooms and a more extensive path system. Based on current conditions, the following recommendations are made (see next page):

Sign for Winstead Hill Photograph of one of the more recent interpretive waysides at the base of Winstead Hill. ______WINSTEAD HIL AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 44 of 73 ______Winstead Hill Area

• Clear a small area on the south side of Winstead Hill’s summit as an observation point to view the Harrison House, but do so by hand and with expert oversight so as to not signifcantly impact the terrain. • Develop a pathway connecting the existing observation shelter on the north slope of Winstead Hill with the proposed observation point on the south side. • Provide an interpretive wayside exhibit about the Harrison House at the proposed new observation point. This type of paved pathway at the base of Winstead Because the Harrison House is privately owned and • Pursue a fee simple purchase or conserva- Hill should be replicated to access a new observa- not open to the public, a visual connection should tion easement for neighboring Breezy Hill. tion point at the top of the south slope. be afforded from the top of Winstead Hill.

Proposed New Observation Point

Existing observation shelter on the north side of Winstead Hill

Historic Harrison House Viewshed

View from Winstead Hill looking north toward the new commercial development on Columbia Pike ______WINSTEAD HIL AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 45 of 73 ______The Harrison House

The Harrison House is a two-story brick Ante- bellum home located on the west side of Co- lumbia Pike just south of Winstead Hill. The house was used by Confederate General John Bell Hood as his headquarters during the Battle of Franklin. From nearby Winstead and Breezy Hills he observed the battle’s development and gave orders as needed. The Harrison House was the last place where Hood had pre-battle discussions with several of his generals, some of who would never return from the field. General John The house’s historic facade needs long-term pro- Today the Harrison House and its surrounding Bell Hood tective measures to insure its future integrity. property is privately owned. The house has been carefully preserved and its context is in relatively good condition. Although there are several post-war outbuildings near the house, they have been sited in a manner that does not visually compete with the house. The surrounding land is in an open pasture-like state, retaining much of the character it would have had during the 1860s. The only significant Harrison House negative impact to the house’s context is an elementary school that was recently constructed across Columbia Pike from the property. Because of the property’s private ownership by a preservation-minded owner, recommendations are limited to the following:

• Pursue long-term protective measures, such as a conservation easement, for the house and surrounding lands from any future negative alterations or development. • Integrate the house’s history into all future interpretation efforts, but make it clear that the property is not open to the public. • Provide a wayside exhibit about the Harrison House as part of a new observation point on Winstead Hill (see page 45). When viewed from the road, the Harrison House’s prominence on the site manages to visually downplay the adjacent post-war buildings. ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 46 of 73 ______Fort Granger “On the bank of the Harpeth river stood an Fort Granger was built by the Union army in earthen fort out of whose embrasures were early 1863 following their occupation of Nash- grinning some hungry guns... Whoever had ville and Middle Tennessee. This earthen fort the temerity to make an assault would get was strategically located to guard the railroad seriously hurt.” tressel over the Harpeth River, as well as the - W.A. Keesy, 64th Ohio Franklin - Murfreesboro Road (Hwy. 96 today). Key features include three bastions for positioning artillery, a sally port for access, and a centrally located powder magazine.

The fort is now part of the City’s Pinkerton Park, and its contours are extremely well preserved. An interpretation plan was prepared in 1995, and several high-quality interpretive wayside exhibits explain the fort’s function and history. However, negative features include poor access, both to the site and within the site. Also, adjacent industrial development is a visible in- trusion, and there is only one clear view from the fort that provides an understanding of its strategic position (with the exception of winter months when foliage is not an issue). Fort Granger is not a well-known resource within the broader community, but it has tremendous potential for increased visitation.

This interpretive wayside is one of several high qual- Detailed view of an interpretive wayside illustrating the layout of Fort Granger ity exhibits already existing at Fort Granger. ______FORT GRANGER Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 47 of 73 ______Fort Granger Promoting the Fort Access Although there are still many areas for improve- Improvements are needed for both vehicular ment, even in its current state Fort Granger and pedestrian access, as follows: has much untapped potential for visitation by both tourists and Franklin residents. Progress Vehicular Access & Parking will first require the following two key steps: • Provide strategically-placed directional 1) Aesthetically enhance the site with an signage for both routes to the fort. eye for detail. • Enhance and expand the small gravel park- 2) Promote the fort much more vigorously ing lot existing on the north side of the fort. through written marketing materials and • Consider extending the existing vehicu- Access to the fort from Pinkerton Park includes facilities in serious need of repair. other avenues. lar access and parking in Pinkerton Park further north toward the fort (if sufficient Views public support exists). Some views at Fort Granger need to be opti- Pedestrian Access mized, while others need to be minimized. Develop a paved path connecting the park- • Vista Improvements ing lot north of the fort to the fort. Views to the west and southwest toward the • Repair and maintain the existing pedestri- river, the rail line and the town need to be im- an facilities (stairways, ramps, etc.) on the proved by clearing vegetation at key locations south side of the fort. to create vistas that convey the fort’s strategic position.

Screening of Intrusions Indigenous evergreen trees, such as cedars, Promoting the fort for increased visitation will require greater attention to aesthetic details, such should be used to visually screen out intru- as remedying this sign’s peeling paint. sive views of adjacent industrial uses.

“[Fort Granger] was separated from the Potential Trail town by the river and constituted a perma- nent fort, which had been constructed there in January, 1863, by Gen. Gordon Granger. This fort was frowning with heavy artillery and siege pieces. From that point the Federals could sweep the plain lying south of Franklin for two Although the adjacent business permits parking miles.” for the fort, this gravel lot (above left) is the only designated parking. The City-owned strip of land - Hardin P. Figuers linking the fort and parking lot (above right) should Vegetative screening has been employed to screen 15 year old Franklin resident be physically enhanced for access with a trail. some incompatible views, but more is needed. ______FORT GRANGER Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 48 of 73 ______Ropers Knob

Located just fifteen miles south of Nashville, Roper’s Knob Franklin held a strategic position in the Union’s line of communications and supplies as well as defense. To secure the Union garrison at Franklin, the army constructed fortifications on surrounding hilltops throughout the area, including a signal station at Roper’s Knob. The site served as an important communication post with visibility of six miles in all directions Roper’s Knob, the hill on the right, served as a signal point during the Battle of Franklin. Today it serves in the Harpeth River Valley. The fortifications as an important landmark for Franklin’s historic landscape. at Roper’s Knob were constructed between April 19 and May 29, 1863. Approximately but records indicate that it was a possibility. conducted by the State, but no interpretive plan 5,000 men accomplished the operation. Each The October 1, 1864 communications of has been prepared. The property is not open to day two reliefs of 600 men worked eight-hour Assistant Adjutant-General B.H. Polk to Major the public, although Save The Franklin Battlefield shifts until the work was complete. Captain General Rousseau state, “I send down to (STFB) has gained permission to lead tours to William E. Merrill, U.S. Topographical Franklin this evening two 3-inch Parrots and the summit on several occasions. The following Engineer, supervised the construction of the 400 rounds of ammunition. Shall any guns go recommendations are provided for Roper’s Franklin defenses. Upon its completion, upon Roper’s Knob, or shall all go in the large Knob: Roper’s Knob had a redoubt for four heavy fort?” guns, inside which was a blockhouse that • Create a small parking area at a point clos- could hold sixty men. The fortifications also Following the Battle of Franklin on November est to Roper’s Knob via public roads. contained two 4,500-gallon cisterns and a 30, 1864, Roper’s Knob, along with the other • Develop an improved trail connecting the large magazine. Merrill boasted that the site Franklin fortifications, was abandoned by the proposed parking area with Roper’s Knob. was so secure that “fifty men could hold it retreating Federal army. After the Union victory • Provide interpretive wayside exhibits to tell against 5,000.” at the Battle of Nashville in mid-December, the story of Roper’s Knob. Roper’s Knob was again reoccupied by • Conduct an archeological survey prior to Well fortified, the signal station at Roper’s Federal forces until the end of the war. The any physical work on the site. Knob relayed important communications to outer entrenchment and redoubt at Roper’s fortifications in Triune to the east and La Knob remain clearly discernible and well Vergne to the northeast, and then to Nashville. defined, and have only experienced natural “Once we’ve lost these battlefields, we Signal stations were important to the Union erosion. The high peak, with its commanding will never get them back. It’s like de- military effort as they transmitted information view of the surrounding valley, combined with stroying a rain forest, you can’t resusci- regarding the movement of Confederate the high integrity of the earthworks, conveys tate it. These battlefields, they’re so troops to Union officers. Communications a strong sense of its historical period. proved especially important during the 1864 important to our history. Unhappily, not campaign of Confederate General John Bell Today the 22-acre summit is owned by the State enough people in this country really Hood through Middle Tennessee. It is unclear of Tennessee, and 36 acres of the south face relate to that.” whether artillery was arranged at Roper’s was recently given to the City by the Heritage - Senator Dale Bumpers, Arkansas Knob in defense of the Confederate mission, Foundation. An archaeological survey has been ______ROPER’S KNOB Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 49 of 73 ______Cedar Hill

This one-acre parcel is owned by Save The Roper’s Knob Franklin Battlefield Association and lies just southwest of Liberty Pike and Mack Hatcher Parkway. The adjoining one-acre parcel to the east is owned by a neighborhood association. The parcels are landlocked by subdivisions and are not accessible from the street. The property Cedar Hill is not open to the public. Both parcels are Roper’s Knob wooded and, together, contain a Civil War lunette earthwork and were the southeast strong point of the Fort Granger complex. There are several Roper’s Knob, which consisted of a lunette and This USGS map illustates the geographic relation- houses on the north face of Cedar Hill that cover four cannon, is located just north of Cedar Hill. ship between Cedar Hill and Roper’s Knob. about five acres. If these houses were acquired and removed, a park of about seven acres could be assembled fronting on Liberty Pike. The Cedar Hill following recommendations are provided: • Create a small parking area at a point closest to Cedar Hill via public roads. • Develop an improved trail connecting the proposed parking area with Cedar Hill. • Provide interpretive wayside exhibits to tell the story of Cedar Hill.

“It’s what the veterans wanted, to create these parks, where people from a future Fort Granger time could ponder the suffering and terror of their own time, and realize that some- how we had progressed to a better time. So when these battlefields are destroyed, we lose that, we lost that ability. And before long it’s just one more strip of asphalt, it’s not a place of sacrifice, it’s not a place to ponder, it’s not a place to learn. It’s just another faceless, nameless bit of urban sprawl.”

- Brian Pohanka, Civil War Historian Compared to today’s Franklin, the 1860s Franklin was simple: a small gridded town, a river, some rail

______lines, and surrounding hills capped with Union fortifications. cedar hill Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 50 of 73 ______Freight Depot blazing roof. Following the return of the Union The following recommendations are provided for army to Franklin, immediate efforts were Franklin’s historic freight depot: The Tennessee and Alabama Railroad Freight made to evacuate the wounded to Union army Depot was constructed ca. 1858 by the hospitals in Nashville. A history of the U.S. • Provide interpretive wayside exhibits telling Tennessee and Alabama Railroad Company Army Medical Department records notes: the depot’s story. shortly after it built its line through Franklin. The “Trains evacuated all the wounded from • Include the depot on the recommended brick freight depot was constructed near the Franklin and other communities back to walking tour of downtown’s Civil War sites. busy intersection of South Margin Street and Nashville as soon as they were in a condition • Consider the depot as one of the potential Second Avenue, South in a rectangular design to be moved and the track had been repaired.” sites for the recommended Visitors Center. common among antebellum depots in Middle After the Civil War, the Tennessee and Tennessee. These structures were typically Alabama Railroad Freight Depot went back one-story buildings of brick construction, with to its original purpose as a shipping and thick walls and a broad overhanging gable roof. receiving facility. Built for the purpose of shipping and receiving freight, the building had an open floor plan with the northern end of the building reserved for office space. Freight doors were located on either side of the building leading to the track and loading areas for easy transfer of goods.

Soon after Union forces occupied Middle Tennessee in 1862, railroads were utilized as vital links in moving troops and supplies through the region. During the war years, the freight depot in Franklin would have been a busy hub of activity as supplies and munitions were shipped along the rail line. The depot was likely one of many buildings in the community converted into a temporary hospital following the Battle of Franklin, as local Freight Depot historians have reported. The freight depot also continued to house ammunition during this time, and Confederate troops attempted to burn the building as they scrambled to evacuate Franklin on December 18, 1864. Historian Wiley Sword notes that “at the last minute, Lee’s men set fire to the freight house in town, a building containing seven wagonloads of ammunition.” Fortunately a devastating explosion was avoided as a citizen This Civil War-era Union map illustrates the town of Franklin, including the railroad depots. rushed to throw buckets of water on the Freight depot ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 51 of 73 ______Other Sites Franklin turnpike Berry circle parcel bridge Abutment The Berry Circle parcel consists of a 1.5 acre Union Trench line at Between First Avenue and Bridge Street on tract at the dead-end of Berry Circle off of hwy 96 the west bank of the Harpeth River are the Lewisburg Pike. This tract is at the crest of a A swale historically identified as part of the cut stone abutments of the Franklin Turnpike hill, and two batteries of Union artillery were Union earthworks remains visible adjacent to Bridge. These abutments pre-date the Civil posted in this approximate location during the State Route 96 approximately 500 feet west War and are remnants of the Franklin battle. This high ground west of the railroad of the intersection of Fair Street. This section Turnpike Bridge, which stood at this location provided an advantageous artillery position to of earthworks has not been fully recorded and until 1927. The first bridge at this location fire upon Stewart’s Corps as it advanced. th no archaeological investigations have taken was built in the early 1800s, and a covered Battery M of the 4 U.S. artillery and Battery st place. This location holds potential for future bridge was at this location in 1861. This G of the 1 Ohio Artillery were posted on this interpretation, such as a pull-off from State bridge was burned and rebuilt several times high ground during the battle. This site Route 96 and wayside exhibits. However, this during the war. The bridge site was the remains in open space and offers an section of earthworks should be studied in location of fighting on December 17, 1864, opportunity for acquisition. The location is more detail to ascertain its length and degree during Hood’s retreat following the Battle of appropriate for the siting of cannon and of integrity. For a map location of this site, Nashville. The stone abutments remain wayside exhibits detailing the role of artillery see site #9 on the “Downtown Franklin visible, but are overgrown, and the area is in the Battle of Franklin. However, given the Inventory of Resources” map (Appendix E). generally neglected. This location holds sites location at the end of a quiet residential potential for interpretation as Franklin’s street, it is recommended that substantial historic bridge crossing and the fighting of input and support be gained from neighboring December 17th. See recommendations for residents before pursuing this site’s interpretation on page 53. For a map location interpretation and publicity. For a map location of this site, see site #14 on the “Downtown of this site, see site #19 on the “Downtown Franklin Inventory of Resources” map Franklin Inventory of Resources” map (Appendix E). (Appendix E).

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 52 of 73 ______Downtown Area “I devoted my time while in Franklin, to The original town of Franklin, what is consid- visiting the hospitals; in one room of ered the downtown area today, played a cen- Brown’s Division hospital, in the Court tral role in the Civil War and the Battle of House, I dressed a goodly number of Franklin. In the early days of the war, it was wounds.” the scene of celebration and excitement over the fresh idea of sessession. After Bragg’s - Dr. Charles Quintard, chaplain and doctor defeat at Murfreesboro and the construction 1st Tennessee of Fort Granger by Federal forces in early 1863, it was an occupied community living in fear. On November 30, 1864, Franklin’s downtown was a place of terror and carnage. Fol- Masonic Lodge - used as a hospital after the battle. lowing the battle, it was a place of dispair and suffering, as many buildings became hospitals for the wounded.

There are three important reasons to focus attention on the many Civil War-era buildings located in and near Downtown Franklin. First, Court House - used as a post-battle hospital. a complete understanding of the Battle of Franklin cannot be achieved without an understanding of the role of the town, and the best way to interprete that history is through the surviving tangible buildings. Secondly, without such an understanding and appreciation of these buildings by Franklin’s citizens and communtiy leaders, their long-term preserva- Historic Bank building on Main Street - used as a hospital after the battle. tion will remain in jeopardy. Thirdly, Franklin’s downtown is a community treasure far beyond Truett House - used as Schofield’s headquarters. it being a living and breathing Civil War arti- “I started up through the town on the fact. To remain economically vibrant and street upon which I had come... But what a safely preserved, it needs to benefit from heri- scene confronts me now! One hour ago tage tourism. In a survey conducted several this fair street was a thing of beauty... I years ago by Main Street Gettysburg, it was can not walk upon the sidewalks now. learned that only one fourth of their battlefield They are literally covered with wounded, visitors ever visited Downtown Gettysburg. As dying and dead men. These are laid with Franklin’s Battlefield is better preserved, en- their heads toward the fence and build- hanced and interpreted in future years, the ings, their feet toward the street.” economic benefits of heritage tourism must be leveraged for downtown. Dr. McPhail’s Office - another Union headquarters. - Keesy, 64th Ohio

______DOWNTOWN AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 53 of 73 ______Downtown Area Silhouette Waysides Visitors Center Silhouette interpretive waysides would consist The following measures are recommended for The recommendation for a downtown Visitors of the two-dimensional forms of people who the Downtown Franklin area as it relates to Center is already addressed on page 35, but represent a broad cross-section of people the Battle of Franklin: its importance to both the battlefield and down- associated with the Battle of Franklin. They town make it worth reiterating here. The Walking Tour Brochure would be made of metal, painted a single color, former County Library appears to be the opti- and have a form that is distinctive and fitting An excellent driving tour brochure for the over- mal site, but a feasibility study of that and other for the character portrayed. The characters all battlefield already exists, although it is cur- candidate sites is needed. should be based upon historic research, and rently out of print. However, a walking tour examples might include a U.S. general, a C.S. brochure focusing specifically on Downtown general, a U.S. soldier, a C.S. soldier, a cap- Franklin during the Civil War does not pres- tured soldier, a wounded soldier, a military phy- ently exist. There are numerous buildings and sician, a female resident, a slave, a child, and sites within downtown that have a rich story perhaps even a dog such as the 104th Ohio’s to tell, and this would be another way to at- “Old Dog Harvey” (see “Acknowledgements” tract battlefield visitors to downtown. The bro- page of this document). Each life-size silhou- chure should include a map with numbered ette would also be accompanied by a small sites correlated to descriptive text. It should plaque with text to tell the story. also include high-quality graphics and an at- tractive design. Court House exhibit Because the Court House is a public facility and presently transitioning to serve new uses, this would be a unique opportunity to allocate a small, but very accessible, space in the building to interprete the building’s role as a post-battle hospital. It is recommended that the space be displayed and interpreted in a manner that does not require it to be staffed. Plexiglass could be used between any dis- Confederate Monument - errected on November 30, plays and visitors, and displays might include 1899 - 35 years after the battle. a re-creation of a doctor administering aide to a wounded soldier. The story could be told “...he took another big drink and he told with either written text or an audio tape. me he didn’t reckon I would live long enough to see it, but that some day there Bridge Interpretation would be a wonderful Confederate Monu- The bridge over the Harpeth was critical to ment built on the square with the money troop movements. The original bridge site the ladies sewing societies and dinner should be cleared of vegetation to better ex- groups were making.” pose the original stone abuttments, and a high- quality interpretive wayside exhibit should be - Horace German - Franklin resident citing This type of silhouette wayside exhibit could inter- installed. See page 52 for details. his grandfather’s comments in 1896 pret______a variety of Civil War-era characters. DOWNTOWN AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 54 of 73 ______Downtown Area

By 5:00 PM on November 30th, 1864, approximately one hour of combat had occurred at the Battle of Franklin and casualties were already beginning to mount on both sides. Doz- ens of buildings in Franklin were quickly transformed into field hospitals for tending to the wounded. Some buildings continued in use as hospitals for the next two weeks, until Hood’s army retreated from Nashville through The Lotz House could display a hospital flag. Franklin, in which case the wounded were either reunited with the army or captured shortly afterward by the federals. The wide range of buildings that were used as hospitals included churches, shops, governmental buildings and private homes. Over 30 surviving buildings Source: The Fighting Men of the Civil War - William C. Davis, 1989 have been identified in Franklin among those Federal ambulance corpsman and hospital that were used as hospitals. steward with flag in background.

The distinctive flag used to designate hospitals had a yellow field with a green letter “H” centered in the middle. As a means of underscoring the impact of the battle’s aftermath on Franklin, it is recommended that hospital flags be recreated and displayed at all buildings in Franklin that would have served as a temporary hospital during or after the battle. It is recommended that flags only be issued to properties that are known to have been hospitals or are highly likely to have been hospitals.

See Appendix B for more information on hospital properties in Franklin.

Source: Echoes of Glory: Arms and Equipment of the Union - Time-Life Books, 1991 In 1862 the federal army adopted a yellow flag to designate hospitals and in January of 1864 the green letter “H” was added. ______DOWNTOWN AREA Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 55 of 73 ______Linking the Sites

Because so much of the Franklin Battlefield has been developed, one of the greatest challenges is to link the few remaining sites in a cohesive manner to tell the battle’s story. This plan proposes four general approaches to achieving this objective, as follows: • Enhance the battlefield’s existing greenways Existing Condition Landscape Screening • Expand the City’s existing greenway system to link more Civil War sites This existing pathway links Fort Granger with the This electrical substation, directly adjacent to the historic freight depot and associated parking (shown parking area shown at left, needs peripheral ever- • Adopt public policies to improve the ap- above) on the other side of the river. green landscaping to visually screen it. pearance of key traffic corridors, such as Columbia Pike • Reprint the existing driving tour brochure

“When I arrived... at the pontoon bridge Proposed Segments Per across Harpeth River, about a half mile This Battlefield Plan from where I was captured, I saw hundreds of stragglers from the Federal army huddled and attempting to cross the stream, but were kept back by officers with drawn swords and pistols, who were urging them to return to the field.” - C.S. Brigadier General Gordon

During the Battle of Franklin, the Harpeth River was an important landmark. Today it can serve as part 4 of the framework for a greenway system linking various battlefield sites. Map from the City’s 2004 Land Use Plan showing existing and proposed greenways, including per this plan. ______LINKING THE SITES Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 56 of 73 ______Linking the Sites

Greenways Enhancement As illustrated on the map on the previous page, Franklin’s existing greenway system consists primarily of random isolated trails associated with specific park areas. The one exception to this rule is the segment of greenway along the Harpeth River’s floodplain just north of the downtown. The greenway segment associated with Fort Granger, as previously dis- cussed on page 48, is a good example of the types of improvements needed for the exist- In addition to streams such as the Harpeth River, This existing pedestrian bridge linking the Fort ing greenway system. These improvements rail lines can serve as excellent corridors for Granger site with the historic train depot parking include the following: greenway systems. lot is a good model for additional future bridges.

• Repair greenway facilities such as the dam- aged wooden stairway on the south slope of Fort Granger. • Improve parking areas at greenway trailheads through landscaping and other aesthetic enhancements.

Greenways Expansion The map on the previous page is from the City’s Land Use Plan, and it illustrates existing and proposed greenways. It also includes new greenway segments proposed by this Located adjacent to the current Franklin Country This cleared area across the river from the rip-rap plan. Below is a description of each proposed Club, this rip-rap area on the Harpeth River is an area shown at left, and accessed by the Lewisburg new section as numbered on the map: ideal location for a pedestrian bridge that could link Pike, could serve as an excellent trail headway and Fort Granger with Carnton Plantation. parking area for the potential pedestrian bridge. 1) New Bridge: A photograph of this site is provided above right where rip rap has been 2) Carnton Segment: This proposed seg- way along the river with Mack Hatcher Park- recently installed to stabilize the bank. This ment would connect the proposed new bridge way far to the south by paralleling the existing bridge would get users from the City’s pro- with this plan’s proposed greenway segment rail line. #3. It would traverse the golf course property posed greenway system on the north side of 4) Mack Hatcher Segment: This proposed and Carnton Plantation. the river to the south side to connect with this new greenway segment connects segment plan’s recommended segment #2. 3) Rail Line Segment: This segment con- #3 with Winstead Hill and its existing nects a section of the City’s proposed green- greenway. ______LINKING THE SITES Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 57 of 73 ______Linking the Sites Driving Tour Brochure Improving Corridors A wonderful driving tour brochure for the battle- In 2000, the Heritage Foundation commis- field has already been prepared. It is well writ- sioned a project to prepare design guidelines ten and well designed, and it is a useful tool for Columbia Pike from its northern termina- for navigating and understanding the battle- tion downtown at the “Five Points” to the City’s field. Unfortunately, the brochure has been boundary at the south end. That document, out of print for several years. funded through an American Battlefield Pro- tection Program grant through the National It is recommended that the brochure be re- Park Service, has never been adopted. The printed in large numbers for distribution in guidelines defined three distinct segments of area hotels, restaurants, visitors centers and Columbia Pike, which included: similar locations. Depending upon available funding, it should also be distributed along

• A historic urban segment from Five Points Graphic by Looney Ricks Kiss Architects to the Carter House This conceptual site plan from the guidelines illus- Interstate 65, as far south as Birmingham • A historic residential segment from the trates the desired development pattern for the north- and as far north as Louisville. ern and most urban segment of Columbia Pike. Carter House to Fairgrounds Road • An industrial segment from Fairgrounds Road to the City boundary

The Columbia Pike Design Guidelines would reinforce the positive aspects of the road’s existing character. While substantial public input will be required, it is recommended that

these guidelines be adopted to enhance this Graphic by Looney Ricks Kiss Architects important corridor. A streetscape project This street cross-section illustrates the rural green with wider sidewalks, buried power lines, edge character most appropriate for the southern industrial segment of Columbia Pike. street crosswalks and shade trees would also help the corridor tremendously. “You can almost hear the rifles, you can almost see the men standing eyeball to eyeball a few yards apart firing point blank at each other. Those things are exhilirating from a historical standpoint, but they are very sobering so far as war is concerned. Children ought to be exposed to that so they understand why we’re still a great nation, and why we’re one nation Although adopting development policies to improve instead of two.” the appearance of Columbia Pike will not save This driving tour brochure is currently battlefield lands, improved aesthetics can heighten - Senator Dale Bumpers, Arkansas out of print, but it needs to be reprinted the overall visitor experience. in ample supply. ______LINKING THE SITES Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 58 of 73 ______Priorities & Implementation However, because of the need for the plan to provide a few large targets on which to aim, a “This ground was quite literally “top three” list has been developed and ranked watered with blood. People fought The 25 key recommendations on the follow- in order of importance, as follows: and died here for their beliefs, for ing page are explained on the pages cited to their ideals, and that’s what we have the immediate right of each. The recom- Priority #1: to remember about these sites. It’s not mended responsible party is the organization Creation of a Battlefield Park about brigades and divisions and that would seem to be most appropriate based This once-in-a-life opportunity can fill the one corps and tactics and strategies. It’s upon the nature of the recommendation and glaring void in Franklin’s existing heritage tour- about human beings.” the mission and activities of the organization. ism package: a single site promoted as a Civil - Brian Pohanka, Cited organizations would be appropriate to War battlefield. It entails the transformation Civil War Historian take the lead, but may require support from of the existing Franklin Country Club back to other groups. The three priority levels are its original appearance as a historic land- based upon each recommendation’s relative scape. See pages 41-42 for details. level of importance in preserving and interpreting the Franklin Battlefield. The cost and time- Priority #2: frame categories are defined below (time- Carnton Plantation Enhancements and frames are based upon completion dates): Battlefield Interpretation Because the realization of Priority #1 may be Cost several years away, this recommendation can Low: Below $25,000 provide an opportunity to more effectively in- Moderate: $25,000 - $100,000 terpret the battle, especially the eastern flank High: Above $100,000 of the battle. It can also help to attract more heritage tourists. See page 40 for details. Time-Frame Short-Term: Year One (1) Priority #3: Mid-Term: Years Two (2) through Three (3) Carter House Integration of the Old High Long-Term: Years Four (4) through Five (5) School Gym Site As a critical location for the Battle of Franklin, Applying these considerations and definitions as well as the best existing interpretive cen- to the 25 key recommendations of the plan ter for the battle, the Carter House property is results in a total of fifteen recommendations an extremely valuable resource that needs fur- considered to be “high priority,” four consid- ther expansion and enhancement. Although ered to be “moderate priority,” and six consid- the acquisition of the adjacent former high ered to be “low priority.” Prioritizing the plan’s school property is now a mere technicallity many recommendations can be a somewhat that will happen in the near future, the suc- subjective process, and the priorities must ul- cessful integration of the property should be timately be established - and periodically re- the third highest priority for this plan. See vised - by the community. Therefore, the num- pages 37-39 for details. ber sequencing of each recommendation is not______in any particular order of priority. PRIORITIES & IMPLEMENTATION Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 59 of 73 ______Priorities & Implementation

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 60 of 73 ______Financial Sources (STFB) group is an extremely capable through the use of conservation easements. organization that has already protected land, While it would be difficult to solicit their help The primary source of funds for battlefield most recently at the Collins Farm. with lands that are already impacted by protection efforts come from governmental and urbanization, there is potential for protecting private non-profit organizations. While Historical Organizations battlefield lands that are relatively unspoiled governmental funding sources are relatively The historical organization with the greatest and retain some ecological value. An limited, the number of private non-profit potential for helping to preserve the Franklin exception might be reclaiming altered lands, organizations involved in battlefield protection Battlefield is the Heritage Foundation of such as the Franklin Country Club golf course, issues has grown substantially over the last Franklin and Williamson County. As the by transforming them into more few years. Below is a concise summary of sponsors of this plan, the Heritage Foundation environmentally sensitive lands for a such sources: has a history of preserving some of Battlefield Park. Williamson County’s most important Civil War Private Sources sites. The group was instrumental in Federal Sources Private non-profit organizations involved with protecting sites such as Winstead Hill and Most governmental sources of funding for the Civil War heritage protection, as well as those Ropers Knob, and even where it has not been protection of Civil War heritage resources are indirectly involved with related issues, such a major financial contributor, the organization at the federal level or locally derived funds as open space and farmland preservation, has served as the catalyst for major generated by a specific tax or fee having a include the following: preservation victories. The Heritage rational nexus (direct relationship) to the Foundation could serve an important role as benefiting cause. While the following sources Civil War Organizations the holder of conservation easements such are not an exhaustive list of all possibilities, Several Civil War organizations exist at the as the one suggested for the Harrison House. they do include the most frequently used national, state and local levels, and some have funding methods. Of all governmental funding considerable funds available for “eleventh Environmental Organizations sources, the federal level has the strongest hour” land acquisitions. The best-known and Although environmental organizations do not track record in assisting with the preservation most effective national organization is the Civil typically give high priority to Civil War resource of Civil War resources during the past decade. War Preservation Trust (CWPT). The CWPT protection, they are certainly interested in In addition to direct appropriations from has preserved more than 16,000 acres of protecting natural open spaces, so there is Congress for national park acquisitions, the endangered battlefield land at more than 80 clearly an overlap. Groups such as the Department of the Interior and the federal sites in 19 different states. This plan’s Nature Conservancy, the Trust for Public Land transportation programs have been good proposal for the transformation of a golf course and the Conservation Fund have been funding sources in recent years. into a Battlefield Park is an excellent candidate extremely active in protecting thousands of for CWPT funding. Tennessee’s state-wide acres of land all across the country and should Federal Appropriations private organization dedicated specifically to be considered potential allies for Franklin’s Federal appropriations are often used for the the preservation of Civil War battlefield lands battlefield protection efforts. The Conservation acquisition of additional lands for existing is the Tennessee Civil War Preservation Fund’s Civil War Battlefield Campaign has national parks, and efforts toward that end are Association (TCWPA). Although this protected over 81,000 acres of battlefield generally sponsored by a Senator or organization has not yet actively protected any lands through 73 projects in 13 states, Representative from the state in which the battlefield lands, it only recently hired a part- including helping to save 57 acres at national park is located. Funds from the Land time director and began fund-raising efforts, Franklin’s Roper’s Knob. The Land Trust for and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) have so gains are expected in the near future. At Tennessee was established in 1999 and has been used to protect battlefields, and while the local level, the Save The Franklin Battlefield already preserved thousands of acres of land these funds require a one-to-two match of ______financial sources Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 61 of 73 ______Financial Sources each state use at least 10% of its federal justed cost basis (cost of acquisition and surface transportation funds toward rehabilitation work to date) transportation “enhancement” activities, such • Property must be income producing (i.e., federal-to-local/private funds, they have been as pedestrian and bicycle paths, scenic commercial use or residential rental) used for properties not part of national parks. easement acquisition, the restoration of In 2002, $293,800 of LWCF funds were transportation-related historic sites, For the purposes of preserving and enhancing allocated to the Tennessee Historical landscaping and beautification for Franklin’s Civil War resources, this program Commission to protect 515 acres at Fort transportation facilities, removal of outdoor would be limited to buildings with an Donelson, a national park. However, another advertising, and similar activities. This association with the war, such as a former $123,000 of LWCF funds were allocated to program, since dubbed “TEA-21” headquarters, hospital, home of a Civil War the Commission to protect 83 acres at Davis (Transportation Equity Act for the 21st personality, or some similar association. Bridge, a non-federal battlefield. Therefore, Century), was considered by the American While a non-profit organization cannot benefit there may be potential for LWCF funding for Battlefield Protection Program’s Battlefield from the credit, private ventures, such as Bed Franklin at some point in the future. Update newsletter (Issue No. 70) to be “the and Breakfasts, can. largest source of funding for battlefield NPS: American Battlefield Protection Program preservation and enhancement projects State Sources This program of the National Park Service currently available.” Each state allocates its At present, with the exception of the State’s (NPS) focuses primarily on offering a balanced transportation enhancement funds differently, role in distributing federal transportation funds, program of technical assistance and direct but local governments must apply for funding the key State program for funding historic financial support to organizations involved in through a competitive grant process and preservation is through Federal Preservation preservation planning and coalition building to must provide a 20% match to any funds Grants. Local governments that participate save battlefield resources. ABPP funding goes received. While enhancement funds cannot in the Certified Local Government (CLG) primarily toward planning activities, including be used by Tennessee’s local governments program are given higher priority when these the preparation of this plan for the Franklin for land acquisition, a State agency, such as funds are distributed. CLGs receive a Battlefield. While ABPP funding might be used the Tennessee Historical Commission, can minimum of 10% of the dollars distributed for future efforts related to resource use enhancement funds for land acquisition. through the Federal Preservation Grants preservation plans, interpretation plans, The TEA-21 program is currently awaiting Program. In order to qualify as a CLG, local interpretive tools, educational efforts, and Congressional reauthorization and is being governments must engage in preservation consensus building projects, it cannot be used temporarily extended in the meantime. activities such as historic sites surveys, for acquisition of battlefield lands. Funding historic designation, establishment of a rounds occur annually, and those seeking Investment Tax Credit for Rehabilitation preservation commission, and similar funding must complete an ABPP application The federal investment tax credit for the activities as determined by the state historic describing: the project need, the proposed rehabilitation of historic structures may have preservation office. Franklin is a designated methodology, intended results, merits of the some limited applications for Franklin’s Civil CLG. project, and estimated costs. To date, funding War resources. This program provides a has averaged approximately $22,000 per 20% tax credit for qualified rehabilitations Other funding available at the state level project. based upon the following standards: includes Tennessee Wars Commission • National Register designation or eligibility grants and the Department of Environment Federal Transportation Act • Rehabilitation follows the Secretary of the & Conservation’s “State Lands Acquisition The federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation Fund,” which is overseen by the State Lands Efficiency Act (ISTEA) of 1991 required that • Project costs exceed the property’s ad- Acquisition Committee. The State Lands ______financial sources Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 62 of 73 ______

Financial Sources Use Value Taxation Battlefield project. The Agricultural, Forest and Open Space Land Act of 1976, known as the Greenbelt Law, Development Impact Fees allows landowners in Tennessee to pay Impact fees consist of a local government property taxes based upon their land’s current levying a one-time fee for new development Acquisition Committee includes members use as opposed to its potential use. For in order to off-set that government’s future from the Department of Environment and example, a 200-acre farm located near incurred costs related to such development. Conservation (TDEC), the Department of residential subdivisions or commercial A relationship (rational nexus) must be Agriculture, and the Tennessee Wildlife development might have a high market value established between the impact caused and Resources Agency. A representative from the based on its potential use. Under the the fee charged. Impact fees typically charge Tennessee Historical Commission, which is Greenbelt Law, the land could be taxed on its more for residential development than part of the TDEC, sits on the committee. The current use as farmland, rather than on its commercial development, because fund receives money from a statewide real development potential, if the property is used commercial development tends to support estate transfer tax. This fund provides for only for agricultural purposes. There are three itself to a greater extent through property and acquisition of land for state parks, state types of land which may qualify for greenbelt retail tax revenues. forests, state natural areas, boundary areas classification: farm, forestry, and open space along state scenic rivers, and the acquisition land. If the property is disqualified for any Franklin’s program includes a variety of of easements to protect any of the forgoing reason (e.g. the property is sold and is being building permit fees, impact fees and taxes. state areas. Such funds may also be used converted to a use other than a greenbelt), Building permit fees, for example, are based for trail development in these areas. A the owner is liable for a rollback assessment, upon the value of the development. Road proposed amendment to T.C. A. 67-4-409 which means a repayment of the taxes saved impact fees are based on the unit type for would allow the purchase of historic properties while the land was classified as a greenbelt. residential development and per square foot through the “State Land Acquisition Fund.” At for commercial and industrial development, present, historic properties cannot be This program of “use value taxation” can be depending upon the specific use. purchased through this fund and, in the past, used as both an incentive for preservation many otherwise deserving projects have been and as a funding source. The incentive is Although Franklin’s impact fees are currently turned away due to statutory language. Civil that land owners are not penalized by the used to pay for basic community War resources, such as battlefields, could be taxation system for keeping their land out of infrastructure, such as roads, impact fees strong candidates for acquisition if the development. The funding source, on the can also be used to preserve historic amendment is passed. other hand, could derive from the rollback resources. The Town of Collierville levies assessment that occurs if such lands are impact fees on new commercial construction Local Sources eventually developed. Given the clear that are dedicated to their “Historic With the exception of Federal Preservation relationship (“rational nexus”) between the Preservation Fund.” These funds have been Grants and the State’s role in distributing loss of historic lands and the increased used for the rehabilitation of historic public federal transportation enhancement funds, property tax revenue generated by that loss buildings and for infrastructure improvements there is a general lack of funding options at of land, the tax revenue (or a percentage of it) on Collierville’s historic town square. the state and regional levels of government. could go towards a funding pool earmarked However, there are several different for the acquisition of endangered historic Special Taxes possibilities of funding at the local level of lands. However, this approach would require The primary factor impacting tax rate government that are worth consideration. the State to initiate such a policy change, increases lies in public sentiments. Tax which is a larger task beyond this Franklin increases are perhaps the most politically- ______financial sources Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 63 of 73 ______

Financial Sources Real estate transfer taxes have fueled the “occupancy tax,” is typically used to fund State of Maryland’s $60 million annual tourism activities. Examples of occupancy Program Open Space (POS), which acquired taxes of various large cities within the sensitive issue which elected officials must easements on hundreds of acres of farmland Southeast and Midwest include Louisville at face. The approval of any sort of special tax at Antietam Battlefield. In fact, they have been 6%, Indianapolis at 6%, and Atlanta at 7%. for battlefield protection in Franklin would rely used for wetland acquisition in West On the lower end of the scale is Nashville at on an unusually favorable political climate. Tennessee. However, to use real estate 4%, and on the higher end is Birmingham at However, such taxes are worth consideration transfer taxes for battlefield acquisition in 8%. At present, the tax for the City of Franklin should opportunities surface for their use Franklin, special state enabling legislation is 2%, which generates approximately sometime in the future, including the following would be required. It would be up to the $500,000 annually, but that rate will increase types of taxes: legislation to determine whether a local to 4% in January of 2005. The County’s rate referendum would also be required. is 4%. Because of the tourism aspect of Civil Dedicated Tax War site protection and interpretation, local A “dedicated” tax for battlefield preservation Hotel/Motel Tax occupancy taxes would be one way to fund would entail an increase in local property taxes A Hotel/Motel Tax, often referred to as an some of this plan’s recommendations. in which the increased revenues would be earmarked for the acquisition, improvement and maintenance of battlefield lands. Because this tax would affect so many citizens in Franklin, it might be difficult to generate sufficient support.

Real Estate Transfer Tax Real Estate Transfer taxes consist of a tax levied for any real estate transaction based upon a percentage of the purchase price. When used as part of a battlefield protection program, such tax revenues would go towards the acquisition of fee simple ownership or conservation easements. Because studies have shown that communities with aggressive open space programs typically experience greater property value increases than communities without such programs, there is a relationship (rational nexus) between the tax and those benefiting from the value of open space. Real estate transfer taxes are most commonly employed by state and local governments for a specific earmarked fund, There are still many important sites associated with the Battle of Franklin deserving long-term protection, such as an open space acquisition program. such as Breezy Hill on Columbia Pike. As illustrated by the new commercial development in the upper right corner of this photograph, time is of the essence. ______financial sources Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 64 of 73 ______

Appendices

______Appendices Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 65 of 73 ______Appendix A: Cashing in on history

This excerpt from Hallowed Ground magazine, a publication of the Civil War Preservation Trust (CWPT) appeared in Vol. 5, No. 2 - Summer 2004.

______Appendix a: cashing in on history Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 66 of 73 ______Appendix B: Franklin - One vast hospital

In the weeks and months following the battle, Tradition has that two soldiers died in the 125 N. Third Avenue (John Eaton House), ca. the town of Franklin was essentially one large house, one of whom, Dr. F.P. Sloan, was cared 1818 hospital with wounded soldiers occupying all for by the McEwen family until his death in 137 N. Third Avenue, ca. 1820 of the public buildings and churches, and June of 1865. 120 S. Third Avenue (Moran-Pope House), ca. most of the private residences. Over 6,000 1822 soldiers, the majority of them Confederate, At least thirty-one buildings in downtown 224 S. Third Avenue, (Saunders-Marshall House), had to be accommodated in the community. Franklin remain standing from the period of ca. 1805 805 W. Main Street, 1831 The experience of the John McEwen family, the battle. These buildings are all within walk- 1101 W. Main Street, ca. 1828 whose home stills stands at 612 Fair Street, ing distance of one another and tell an im- 1014 W. Main Street, 1850 was typical of the care provided by the citizens portant story about the experience of the ci- 1010 W. Main Street, ca. 1850 of Franklin. On the morning after the battle, vilians in the community as well as the suf- 700 W. Main Street, 1820 his daughter, Frances McEwen, wrote: fering of thousands of soldiers after the battle. 510 W. Main Street, (St. Paul’s Episcopal Franklin buildings dating from the period of Church), 1834, remodeled 1869 “About four o’clock we heard the the battle. 1012 Fair Street, 1850 tramping of feet and the sound 724 Fair Street, ca. 1830 of voices. Our hearts jumped 328 Bridge Street (Walker-Baagoe House), ca. 612 Fair Street, (McEwen House), 1849 into our mouths and what joy 1846 501 S. Margin Street, (Otey-Campbell House), when we learned that our own 402 Bridge Street (Walker-Halliburton House), ca. 1830 soldiers were in possession of ca. 1833 119 S. Margin Street, Nashville and Decatur the town!...Our doors were 143 S. Fifth Avenue, ca. 1835 Railroad Depot, 1858 thrown wide open, and in a few 244 S. First Avenue, ca. 1839 minutes a big fire was burning in 136 N. Fourth Avenue, ca. 1838 the parlor. The first man to enter 217 North Fourth Avenue, ca. 1810 was Gen. William Bate, all 135 S. Fourth Avenue, ca. 1830 bespattered with mud and 209 E. Main Street (Dr. McPhail’s Office), ca. blackened with power …who had 1815 been a life long friend (of my Williamson County Courthouse, 1858 father’s). Next came Gen. 115 S. Second Avenue (Hiram Masonic Lodge), Thomas Benton ca. 1825 Smith…Ambulances were being 202 S. Second Avenue (Clouston Hall), ca. 1821 filled with the wounded as fast 211 S. Second Avenue (Bearden-Robinson as possible, and the whole town House), ca. 1838 was turned into a hospital. 217 S. Second Avenue (Davis-Still House), ca. Instead of saying lessons at 1810 school the day after the battle, I 236 S. Second Avenue (Eelbeck-Johnson watched the wounded men being Office), ca. 1820 carried in. Our house was as full 117 N. Third Avenue, ca. 1815 as can be.” 118 N. Third Avenue (Maney-Gault House), ca. The John McEwen House on Fair Street was one 1828 of many homes used as a hospital after the Battle of Franklin.

______Appendix b: franklin - one vast hospital Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 67 of 73 ______Appendix C: The Other Battle of Franklin

As described on page 9 and 10 of this plan, a second Battle of Franklin occurred on December 17, 1864, when Hood’s army passed through Franklin as it retreated south after the Battle of Nashville. The actions associated with this combat were explained on those pages, but this page includes various graphics to provide additional detail. The railroad overpass at Liberty Pike was the scene of heavy fighting on the afternoon of December 17th, 1864.

This open field adjacent to Liberty Pike is a potential location for markers and exhibits to explain the action on December 17th, 1864.

The fighting on December 17th, 1864, was significant enough to warrant its own map by the US military after the war. The battle was fought over a Acquisition of a portion of this field should be con- two-mile area from a tributary of the West Harpeth sidered to commemorate and interprete the fightng River shown above to the actual West Harpeth River on December 17th, 1864. It is located north of the crossing. West Harpeth River and west of Columbia Pike.

______Appendix C: tHE OTHER bATTLE OFfranklin Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 68 of 73 ______Appendix D: Archeology & Cultural Landscape Preservation

Archeological work is an important component lWar sites, including Preservation Brief 36: for the preservation and interpretation of Protecting Cultural Landscapes: Planning, Franklin’s Civil War heritage. Archeological Treatment and Management of Historic survey work is a specific recommendation for Landscapes. The brief is an excellent many of the various sites addressed in this introduction to the current tenets of landscape plan. It is recommended that archeology be preservation and management. applied to any important lands that are about to be disturbed, even if the site is about to be physically enhanced for preservation and interpretation purposes. It is also critical that those archeologists doing the work are well versed in historic archeology, including battlefields, as opposed to strictly prehistoric habitational sites.

At present, the City has no requirements for archeological survey work prior to development approval. One option suggested on page 30 under “Potential Preservation Measures” is for the City to require a survey for developments within the delineated battlefield, or perhaps only the “core” battlefield area. An alternative to requiring such a survey for all developments is to limit the requirement to developments of a certain magnitude, such as 10 acres or more.

In addition to archeology, it is important that the preservation of the cultural landscape also be a top priority with respect to any of this plan’s recommendations that might impact terrain. An example of this issue was cited on page 45, in which it was noted that the clearing of land for an observation point should Archeological work has been conducted recently at be done by hand so as to avoid any significant Carnton Plantation in the vicinity of the former impactst to the landscape. The National Park kitchen wing. Serving as the original section of the house, it was destroyed years ago by a tornado, Service has prepared several publications that but the “ghost” of its end wall is visible on the fa- are useful for landscape preservation at Civil cade shown above. ______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 69 of 73 ______Appendix E: Inventory of Resources

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 70 of 73 ______Appendix E: Inventory of Resources

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 71 of 73 ______Appendix E: Inventory of Resources

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 72 of 73 ______Appendix E: Inventory of Resources

______Franklin Battlefield Preservation Plan Page 73 of 73