By Kelly McGuinness There is much to love about Williamson County Tennessee’s present balance of scenic landscapes, historic architecture, and modern amenities. It’s a place where communities take pride in the past and embrace the future. Historical markers go up along newly widened roads, while historic sites are continually added to the National Register. And there are more people rallying around local preservation efforts than ever, earning Williamson County national recognition and various preservation awards. Revitalization efforts of the Downtown Franklin Association Franklin have led to Franklin’s designations as a National Main Street Community and a Preserve America Community. The Brentwood Historical Commission won the Tennessee Preservation Trust’s Preservation Achievement Award for the restoration of Boiling Springs Academy and preservation of the Fewkes Group Archaeological Site. And Franklin’s Charge recently received the Civil War Preservation Trust’s 2006 Preservation Legacy Award for its efforts leading to reclamation of part of the Franklin Battlefield.

And while not all of our historic resources have received national attention, they have all played important roles in shaping the Williamson County we love today. From Native American burial mounds and pioneer homesteads, to Civil War battlefields and antebellum mansions, these sites are the footprints of a way of life that has long been gone, yet continues to be reflected in the values, beliefs, and southern charm that Williamson County residents stay true to.

This section will acknowledge many of the County’s historic sites, beginning with those commemorated by historical markers. It will be an ongoing process with sites being added in chronological order, but the end goal is to have online, photos and descriptions of every historically significant property in Williamson County.

I can’t provide more than the basics, but I will be making every effort to mention relevant sources, for those seeking more information.

Also, I know there are plenty of stories yet to be told about many of these sites and I welcome anyone who can offer additional information or photos to email me at klmcguin@yahoo.com.