Carnton
Carnton
On November 30, 1864, Carnton was witness to one of the bloodiest battles of the entire Civil War. Everything the McGavock family ever knew was forever changed.
Carnton was built in 1826 by former Nashville Mayor Randal McGavock (1768-1843). Throughout the 19th century it was frequently visited by those shaping Tennessee and American history, including President Andrew Jackson. The Battle of Franklin lasted barely five hours with the majority of the combat in the dark of night and at close quarters. This led to some 9,500 soldiers being killed, wounded, captured or counted as missing. Nearly 7,000 of that number were Confederate troops. Carnton served as the largest field hospital in the area for hundreds of wounded and dying soldiers.
The Carnton (and Carter House) are open daily for guided tours. The guided tour at each site lasts about an hour and we recommend spending additional time exploring the grounds & outbuildings. Tours include grounds, gardens, outbuildings and access to the museum store.
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Hours:
- Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Sunday 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Classic Tour:
- Adults: $18
- Children 6-12: $8
- Children under 6: free
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Behind the Scenes Tour:
- Lasts approximately 1.5 hours
- Thursdays & Fridays at 10 a.m. (reservations recommended)
- Admission: $25 per person, all ages
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Extended Tours
- Tuesday-Saturday 11 a.m.
- Admission: $25
The classic guided tour of the house lasts about 60 minutes. Use the map provided with the purchase of admission to explore the grounds, gardens, cemetery and outbuildings.
The Value Ticket offers discount admission to the three historic houses in Franklin: The Carter House, Carnton and the Lotz House. The cost is $35 per ticket and it never expires. Tickets are available at any of the historic houses and at the Visitor Center in downtown Franklin.
The classic guided tour of the house lasts about 60 minutes. Use the map provided with the purchase of admission to explore the grounds, gardens, cemetery and outbuildings.
The Value Ticket offers discount admission to the three historic houses in Franklin: The Carter House, Carnton and the Lotz House. The cost is $35 per ticket and it never expires. Tickets are available at any of the historic houses and at the Visitor Center in downtown Franklin.
The Fleming Visitor's Center includes a bookstore, gift shop and event space.Carnton is an ideal venue for tented, outdoor special events such as parties and weddings.
Amenities
- Garden Ceremony/Cocktail Hour on the Back Porch of Fleming Center Reception – capacity: 250
- Garden Reception – capacity: 500
- Fleming Center (indoor) Reception – capacity: 250
The Fleming Visitor's Center includes a bookstore, gift shop and event space.Carnton is an ideal venue for tented, outdoor special events such as parties and weddings.
Amenities
- Garden Ceremony/Cocktail Hour on the Back Porch of Fleming Center Reception – capacity: 250
- Garden Reception – capacity: 500
- Fleming Center (indoor) Reception – capacity: 250
