Carnton, Franklin, TN - Museum

One of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War took place in Franklin, TN. The Battle of Franklin is also known as the "Gettysburg of the West," and there were more than 10,000 casualties on both sides in a mere five hours.

One of the large plantation type homes nearby, called Carnton became the largest hospital for the wounded. This plantation was owned by the McGavock family, and they quickly helped the wounded and dying soldiers. More than 300 soldiers were brought there for care, and there were soldiers lying around everywhere - in the house, in the slave quarters, and all over the grounds. Over 150 soldiers died there on the first night.

Mrs. Carrie McGavock helped in every way she could, along with her two young children. One of the children's bedrooms became the surgery room. The blood from those terrible days still mars the floors in places in the home. Mrs. McGavock became known as "The Widow of the South," and a best-selling book by that name written by Robert Hicks is about her and Carnton.

At the time, Carnton had about 1,400 acres. Although the McGavocks did use slaves, they had moved them to Georgia because the area had come under Union control. At that time, farming took place on about a third of the property. Although Carnton was not the only home used as a field hospital (many were), it certainly was the largest.

Later, the McGavock family donated two acres of land near the house to be used as a Confederate cemetery. Almost 1,500 soldiers were buried there. It is the largest Confederate graveyard that is privately owned. Today, visitors to Carnton can also visit the cemetery, which has been maintained by the United Daughters of the Confederacy since 1905.

The beautiful antebellum Carnton Plantation house has been fully restored just recently. Visitors can see where the McGavocks lived and touch this historic place that saved the lives of many who felt the care and touch of Carrie McGavock.

Visitors can also see the slave quarters, a smokehouse, and the springhouse. There is also a restored Italianate garden. The Confederate cemetery is also there. Tours of the property are available, too. A Gift Shop sells books about the Battle of Franklin and about the Carnton Plantation.

Special events also take place from time to time on the property. There are living history re-enactors during special days, and they give various demonstrations and talks. This includes demonstrations of artillery, Civil War medicine, storytelling and more. Concerts are given in the summer. A special Christmas Open House takes place each year.

A new Visitor's Center has also been opened - one that cost $1.2 million. It includes the gift Shop, the exhibit hall, and the room for special events. Student groups and schools are also invited, and there are some special programs for Scout groups, too.

Special meetings, or weddings, can also be held at Carnton in Franklin, TN. They can host meetings of different sizes - up to 500 people - depending on where you would like them - in the event center, the Garden, or on the Patio. Equipment can be rented to meet your needs.