Statement About Programs
The Battle of Franklin Trust offers several monthly and annual programs that further our mission to preserve, understand, and interpret the story of a people forever impacted by the American Civil War.
Our newest program is The Battle of Franklin Trust Institute. This annual event will explore four recurring subjects – The Founding, Antebellum America, The Western Theater of the Civil War, and Reconstruction – and will feature a different theme each year. Bus tours of the battlefields and visits to each of our three historic sites will be an essential part of the weekend. Guest speakers, along with our sitting faculty chairs - Richard Condon and Joseph Ricci - will share insights and facilitate discussion around these important topics.
On November 29 and 30 each year we commemorate the anniversaries of the Battles of Spring Hill and Franklin. A late November visit to the sites is poignant.
The Franklin Civil War Round Table meets on the second Sunday of each month at 3 p.m., at Carnton’s Fleming Center. In late 2026, the Round Table will begin meeting at the Harper Center, the new visitor center at Carter House. Guest speakers discuss an assortment of topics related to the American Civil War and the American history.
Each spring, the Legacy Dinner offers us an opportunity to thank the donors who support the work we do year-round. It is a time to reflect on the past year and to dream about what comes next.
Our programming does not include weddings, concerts, tea parties, or ghost tours. While, in the past, events like these were used to generate revenue, they come at a cost to historic properties. Further, we believe our best efforts should be focused on communicating the stories of these families and their homes and how they fit into the greater story of America.
The United States has a history that is bold and beautiful, and long and tortured. The shining light of liberty has often flickered almost to termination, only to renew and burn hot again. It is our privilege to tell that story every day, and intentional programming is an essential component of the work.
Opportunities are available to support the Trust efforts.
Learn more by contacting Laurie McPeak at laurie@boft.org or (615) 786-1864.
