Franklin is a destination steeped in history, so it’s only fitting that your souvenir is a piece of history itself. Here, you can find centuries-old pieces imported from Europe, dazzling jewelry passed down for generations, and whimsical one-of-a-kind tchotchkes from dedicated antique stores around the county.
But, don’t stop there. One of the beautiful things about living in Williamson County is that treasures have a way of getting a second (and third, and fourth) life in local thrift stores. Some of my most beloved pieces were stumbled upon, tucked between racks of retired clothes and dated dishware.
From full sets of china to a designer bag or a vintage vase, here’s where to dig for buried treasure in Williamson County.
GraceWorks
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Start here. Trust me. GraceWorks is a massive warehouse-style thrift store with two sides: one is dedicated to clothing and accessories, with a special “influencer’s closet” section for extra special pieces. There are a few sections of knick-knacks sprinkled throughout, like fine china and home decor, and I’ve found many a piece with tags and packaging intact.
The second side is filled with furniture, art, kitchen essentials, and linens. But perhaps the coolest part of the whole space is the dedicated antiques section on this side: tables and bookshelves towering with donated items from dolls to dishes, wedding dresses, vases, frames, records, playing cards, and more, all designated antique, are collected in one central location for premier pickin’. Pro tip: everything is half price on the second Saturday of the month!
The Find
Located in the Factory at Franklin (an antique itself!), The Find focuses on cool vintage clothing. You can find old sports memorabilia, like that one time the Nashville Predators made a run for the Stanley Cup, faded tees with kitschy phrases, as well as handbags, accessories, and other quirky treasures.
Habitat for Humanity Restore
A model that deviates a bit from the others on the list, Habitat for Humanity’s Restore is a combination of items donated by the community and donated by big box stores and contractors with extra materials. So, the showroom floor stays stocked with new and gently used discounted items you could buy down the road at a retailer for full price.
Palmer Kennedy
This consignment boutique in the heart of downtown Franklin has something for lovers of both new and old. Palmer Kennedy’s two sides include one with new inventory, notably with lots of faith-based apparel and accessories, while the consignment side has a continuous flow of great pieces, including high-end designer and unexpected treasures.
Antique Malls
Of course, if you’re looking for a more curated collection of antiques, you can find those here, too.
In the downtown Franklin area, walk to Winchester Antique Mall on Second Avenue North for traditional 19th-century English and early American furniture, fine silver, Persian rugs, and more, then to T. Nesbitt & Co. for an ever-changing assortment of items from indoor furnishings to outdoor iron furniture. On the other side of Main, Franklin Antique Mall, in the old ice house on Second Avenue South, blends all of that with an even broader selection of antiques and collectibles from 60+ dealers.
In historic Leiper’s Fork, seek out the Pick-It Fence and Props Antiques for industrial items, farmhouse style, old advertising pieces, interesting memorabilia, and more. Then, head east to Arrington for a stop at Three French Hens, a shabby chic shop full of unique finds, period-inspired decor, and fun gift items.
On your way back to town, swing over to Nolensville’s The Village Antiques & Gifts, known for antique flatware, china patterns, crystal, and other finery for the table.
