Williamson County advice

[septimus]

Originally Posted by Coney

Are you sure that isn't the Tennessee state flag?

There is a difference and I see plenty of Confederate flags on high school boy pick up trucks almost every time I go to Sonic on Hillsboro in Franklin, but I also think for the most part people are open and accepting. THere are a decent number of mix raced couples and there many other families with international adoptions.

[vivelafrance]

If they drive 65 north to Nashville they will definitely see a confederate flag at that goofy statue just outside of Brentwood. Also, as septimus said, there are high school boys with confederate flags on their trucks all across the area. I saw more than a few at Page High School during an event a few years ago...and one played "Dixie" when he honked his horn. I wouldn't avoid the area because of it, however, because it's limited and the vast majority of people I met across the Nashville area and especially in Williamson County are either welcoming of different races and cultures or just totally unconcerned with the issue at all.

[akm4]

For every flag-truck there are hundreds of normal people who cringe when a racist's prejudice is revealed.

[vikm23]

Hi Bspray,

Thanks for the input. We definitely are not expecting any red carpet treatment. Basically what I'm trying to guard against is us getting strange looks when we are out in public (restaurant, grocery store, etc.) or parents of other kids discouraging their kids to play with ours due to the race issue. In my experience there isn't much overt racism these days but some subtleties are there.

I know both these scenarios seem extreme and beleive me I'm the last guy in the world to play the race card but it is a possibility and one I'd rather not deal with if it does happen.

Originally Posted by bspray

I didn't say the area would be intolerant, in fact, I said they would be tolerant for the most part. I just don't think they are going to roll out the red carpet and I don't necessarily think Williamson County will be the most warm and welcoming environment in the Nashville area toward a bi-racial family.

Having said that, I think if they fit into the predominantly anglo culture of the area (socio-economic and behavioral) I think they will be accepted for the most part. Again, I said I think the majority of people will be tolerant but probably not warm and welcoming. I agree though it will depend most on their desire to fit in.

I think it is great to paint Williamson county as a wonderful, welcoming and affordable place to live where everyone can find utopia. Obviously no one wants to be discouraging to those that are looking for a great place to raise their family. The reality is Williamson County isn't all those things. It is an expensive place to live and it is welcoming if you fit into the predominant culture. Absolutely nothing wrong with that. It is a big reason I am drawn to the area.

I just think it is important to be honest with people looking to relocate their family at the expense of potentially hurting some feelings. If you think you might not be able to afford to live in Franklin, you probably can't afford it. If you're concerned that you might be outcast for one reason or another, you probably will be.

That's not to say that there aren't exceptional, affordable places to raise a family in the Nashville area. All I am saying is that Williamson County isn't a perfect fit for everyone.

[Rids78]

We absolutely love Nolensville and the recent growth here has made it even better. More places to eat recently and a real great feel to the area. It's going to be hard to leave when that day comes.

[WISTOMOVE]

The kids at my son's school who live in Nolensville have a nickname for it...nowheresville. It's one of those towns if you blink you'll miss it type. Not to say it's not "quaint" but may be a bit of a shock if you're not ready for it and are looking for something with a few more amenities. It has a Sonic, bbq and I believe one or two small "restaurants". Commute is also something you'll want to factor in.

[nashvols]

Originally Posted by WISTOMOVE

The kids at my son's school who live in Nolensville have a nickname for it...nowheresville. It's one of those towns if you blink you'll miss it type. Not to say it's not "quaint" but may be a bit of a shock if you're not ready for it and are looking for something with a few more amenities. It has a Sonic, bbq and I believe one or two small "restaurants". Commute is also something you'll want to factor in.

Nolensville won't be nowhere for long. It used to be isolated...now it has Brentwood, Nashville, and Smyrna development creeping up to it. The town grew by 89% in the last decade.

You're right that there's not a ton of stuff right in town...but I count 7 restaurants.
-Nana's Diner
-Nolensville Feed Mill (stretching the definition of "restaurant", but they do make made-to-order sandwiches)
-Sonic
-China Garden
-Martin's BBQ Joint
-Uncle Bud's Catfish Shack
-Amico's New York Pizza

And Nolensville is only 2-2.5 miles from quite a few places near Concord Rd, including Publix and Kroger for grocery shopping.

[vikm23]

Great feedback everyone! Does anyone have thoughts on how Thompson's Station stacks up against Nolensville, Spring Hill and other surrounding towns?