| |
|
 |
 Welcome
to Franklin, NC, Incorporated 1855
|
|
Franklin is the seat of Macon County, NC
which was formed in 1828. The land was part of lands acquired
from the Cherokee in the Treaty of 1819. The county is
named for Nathaniel Macon, a politician from Warrenton,
NC who served in the American Revolution and the U.S.
House of Representatives and U.S. Senate.
Franklin is located in the southwest corner of North Carolina
and has a rich and well documented history. Unlike many
Western NC counties, most of Macon's records have survived,
which is very fortunate for historical resear-chers. The
present-day site of Franklin occupies Nikwasi, an ancient
and important Cherokee town. The remains of Nikwasi Mound
can still be seen today near the center of Franklin.
Franklin also has unique ties to the Civil War. Thomas'
Legion was formed here and the last Confederate surrender
east of the Missippi took place on Main Street at Dixie
Hall. |
|
|
| National Register of Historic Places |
| Historical structures and sites abound as well with a total
of six structures listed on the National Register of Historic
Places. Be sure to see:
 The Albert Swain Bryson House - Now a private residence
this beautifully preserved home was known as Hall in the
Pines. It is a prime example of fine living in the era of
1875-1899. Located just off East Main Street on Pine Lane. You'll enjoy the romatic appeal of this home
 Franklin Presbyterian Church - The original sanctuary
has been restored to its original state when it was built in 1854. It's 12" thick walls and original windows complete with handmade glass are just some of the features of one of Franklin's oldest standing structures. Located
on Church Street.
 Franklin Terrace - Built in 1888
the Franklin Terrace was originally a Methodist Boarding School for Women. It later house the Franklin public schoool. Now it is a gloriouis B & B open to the public and furnished with period antiques. Located
on Harrison Avenue.
Nikwasi Mound - Franklin's location was once known as
Nequasee or Nikwasa, translated "Center of Activity"
by the Cherokee. It's historical relevance dates as follows:
500-999 BC, 499-0 BC, 499-0 AD, 1000-500 AD, 1499-1000 AD,
1749-1500 AD, 1750-1799.
The Eastern Band of the Cherokee respectfully request no climbing on the mound so that it may be preserved. Please feel free to visit the mound on East Main Street and walk around it, but please honor the Cherokee's request.
Pendergrass Building - Now housing the Macon County Historical
Museum, this former mercantile store remains much unchanged
today. Built in 1904 it houses a tremendous collection of
Macon County History.
Jesse R Siler House - Located on West Main Street this
private residence features Georgian/Federal architecture
and is built around the original residence which was a log cabin built in the 1700's. The home is now owned by the Jones family which have occupied the residence for five generations.
|
| |
MUSEUMS
Preserve Franklin's Rich Heritage
One of the most unique features of the Franklin Main
Street Program District is the number of museums nestled in
downtown. Three museums showcase our rich heritage.
 The Scottish
Tartans Museum is the only one of its kind in the United States.
A direct extension of the Scottish Tartans Society in Scotland,
the museum not only displays Scottish Tartans, but covers various
aspects of the Scottish experience ....culture, history, dress, migration
and military. Visitors are invited to view their family tartan,
connect with their clan, and learn about the history of Highland
Dress. The museum is located in downtown Franklin complete with
gift shop featuring tartan wear, Highland dress items, Admission
$1 adults, 10 and under free. Open year round, Monday - Saturday,
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Macon
County Historical Museum on Main Street in downtown Franklin
is housed in the J.R. Pendergrass building which is listed on the
National Register of Historic Places. The building is an excellent
and little altered example of early twentieth century retail store
design. The Macon County Historical Society seeks to preserve and
interpret the region’s rich mountain heritage for visitors and residents
alike. The centerpiece of the Society’s collection is the building
itself, complemented by original fixtures from the old store and
a fascinating variety of artifacts and photographs illustrating
Macon County’s past. Admission is free. Visitors are always welcome
and conducted group tours can be arranged on request. Open year
round.
 The Franklin Gem
& Mineral Museum was founded in 1974 by The Gem &
Mineral Society of Franklin
in cooperation with Macon County Commissioners and local area
businesses. It occupies the Historic Old Jail of Macon County
that was built in 1850. There are 6 rooms and a couple of hallways
that are dedicated to the cataloging and preservation of gem and
mineral specimens from around the world as well as those found
in North Carolina and of course Macon County - home to the famous
Cowee Valley where Rubies and Sapphires have been found for over
100 years! The other 4 rooms are used for meetings, workshops,
library,and the office. |
|
