FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE

FRANKLIN, TENNESSEE

(PAGE 1 OF 3)

November 30, 1864
Estimated Casualties (2,326; CS 6,261)

Having lost a good opportunity at Spring Hill to hurt significantly the Union Gen. John B. Hood marched in rapid pursuit of Maj. Gen. John M. Schofield's retreating Union army. Schofield's advance reached Franklin about sunrise on November 30 and quickly formed a defensive line in works thrown up by the Yankees in the spring of 1863, on the southern edge of town. Schofield wished to remain in Franklin to repair the bridges and get his supply trains over them. Skirmishing at Thompson's Station and elsewhere delayed Hood's march, but, around 4:00 pm, he marshaled a frontal attack against the Union perimeter. Two Federal brigades holding a forward position gave way and retreated to the inner works, but their comrades ultimately held in a battle that caused frightening casualties. When the battle ceased, after dark, six Confederate generals were dead or had mortal wounds. Despite this terrible loss, Hood's army continued on toward Nashville.
(Primary Text Source: U.S. Gov't, National Park Service)

Carnton Plantation House

Carnton Plantation Sign
(The Carnton House is marked with an arrow)

CARNTON PLANTATION

Carnton was built ca. 1815 by Randal McGavock (1768-1843), planter, political leader and mayor of Nashville. Named after the McGavock home in Northern Ireland, the house was greatly enlarged by Randal ca. 1826. His son, John, later added the Greek Revival porches, one of which served as an observation post for Gen. Nathan B. Forrest during the Battle of Franklin, Nov. 30, 1864. After the Battle, Carnton served as a hospital. The bodies of Generals Adams, Cleburne, Granbury, and Strahl rested on the back porch the next morning. Carnton was acquired by the Carnton Association in 1978

McGAVOCK CONFEDERATE CEMETERY

Tennessee Historical Commission Sign

Williamson (County) Historical Society Sign

PAGE TWO