At the end of that eventful day, November 30, 1864, 8,587 men lay dead or dying. Of this horrendous total, 6,252 of them were Confederate soldiers, including 6 generals. This was the Battle of Franklin. It was one of the most severe and bloodiest battles during the Civil War. The dead can still be found here, buried on one of the local plantations. You can make a pilgrimage to see where the battle took place. Just south of Nashville, Franklin is where you can see the remains of a lifestyle long past and visit the site of the Battle of Franklin. Franklin still has many of its antebellum buildings. Its historic block district stretches 15 blocks. Among them are 40 boutiques, several antique shops and various restaurants. The city still retains the flavor of its past glories before the Civil War. Yet, there is life and touches of modernity. Franklin has a strong sense of preservation — in more ways than one. While it may have a skate park and lively musical events, it does recognize its momentous past. At Carnton Plantation (1826) you will discover the history of this antebellum residence. you can also visit the largest private Confederate Cemetery. It contains 1,500 graves. The battle also roared around Carter House (1830. It became the temporary command post for the Federal Forces. It is now a museum with a video presentation and a guided tour. Over at McLemore House, you are given a different depiction of Southern life. McLemore and his descendents have lived here for 114 years. A former slave and a successful farmer, his house is a testimony to his life and the accomplishments of other African Americans in this region. It houses the McLemore House African American Museum.
