The Moore-Morris History and Culture Center officially opened their newest exhibition: “Tracing the Past: Historical Maps of Williamson County”!
Delve into the past with our new exhibition at the Center! From early land grants to modern-day development, these maps tell the story of our region's rich history. Make plans to check out this new exhibit at your next visit to the Moore-Morris History and Culture Center.
We're honored to announce that our Shumard Oak on the Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens property has been selected for the TN Landmark, Historic, & Heritage Tree Registry as a "Historic Tree"! 🌳
A huge thank you to the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council for this honor. Pictured here is Chaz Griffith (President of the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council) with Anna Marcum (our Senior Director of Preservation!)
We can't wait to see y'all at Dickens of a Christmas presented by Wilson Bank & Trust! This beloved festival recreates the time of Charles Dickens using historic downtown Franklin’s charming architecture as the backdrop.
A variety of musicians, dancers and Dickens characters will fill the streets. Expect to see and interact with the nefarious Fagin from Oliver Twist; Jacob Marley, Ebenezer Scrooge, Tiny Tim and the rest of the Cratchit family from A Christmas Carol; and of course, a Victorian Father and Mother Christmas with treats for children.
DATES -
Saturday, December 14: 10am - 6pm
Sunday, December 15: 11am - 5pm
The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County is proud to present our Heritage Roads program, a comprehensive initiative designed to identify, protect, and preserve the scenic roadways that define our county's unique character. These roads, steeped in history and natural beauty, reflect the agricultural origins and historic charm that make Williamson County a special place.
We work closely with local citizens and government officials to advocate for land use and road policies that safeguard these invaluable assets for future generations.
The Moore-Morris History & Culture Center of Williamson County is a destination for exploring our past and present. As Williamson County’s first permanent, interactive exhibition space dedicated to telling the region’s history, the Center honors and share stories of the people and places that comprise the fabric of middle Tennessee.
Your gift purchases an item to be placed within an exhibit with your logo or name for one year and permanent recognition as an original founding member of the Heritage Hundred in the lobby! Our gift options are as follows:
- A Signature Bottle of Stable Reserve Spirits ($5,000)
- Etched glassware or drinkware ($1,000)
The non-profit Heritage Foundation operates The Franklin Theatre, Downtown Franklin Association, Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens, and the Moore-Morris History & Culture Center of Williamson County, TN to preserve and enrich Williamson County for the betterment of its citizens and visitors.
Support the critical work of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County today! Each gift funds preservation & education initiatives in our area that sustain the historic charm that makes our community so beloved.
The Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN is a nonprofit that preserves, promotes and advocates for the historic places, stories and culture of our community.
Through preservation, education, and events, we actively maintain the historic beauty of Williamson County for our residents and visitors. Without this paramount work, significant buildings and locations representing our area’s diverse history and vibrant culture would be lost forever.
To be the reason the world knows and falls in love with Williamson County’s culture and history.
Whether you have time, funds or business connections to give, each are vitally necessary to sustain the work the Heritage Foundation does to enrich Williamson County. Let's talk, we know there is a meaningful way to get you involved.
Includes: Beechwood Hall (1856), Grasslands (1802, 1850), and Old Town (1846)
Photo of Beechwood Hall, March 2024. Anna Marcum.
WHY: Pryor Lillie built three of the most significant antebellum homes in Williamson County. To have an extant portfolio of an antebellum builder's work in Williamson County is extremely rare and these properties should be preserved as a group.
Pictured, Frierson-Voorhees Cemetery, Brentwood and Tombstone of the Wife of Dr. William Searcy Removed from its Original Location, Nolensville. Both images submitted by nominator.
WHY: Intimate family cemeteries are abundant in Tennessee and an important feature of the state's landscape. As more folks move to Middle Tennessee and development ramps up, it's crucial that people are on the lookout for these cemeteries and are aware of how to appropriately handle them.
James Scales House, 2014. Wikipedia.
WHY: The James Scales House is a lovely example of Eastlake Victorian architecture and the I-house form in Williamson County. Despite the land around it being used as construction storage, the home still retains a remarkable amount of its Eastlake decoration on the porch.
Dry stack stone walls in Williamson County. Both images submitted by nominator.
WHY: These walls are a defining feature of the Tennessee landscape that are not protected by any kind of historic preservation ordinance. With rapid development, many are being lost simply because people don't understand their significance.
The Tucker Home, Architect Burney Tucker, Brentwood, 1967. Photo courtesy Zillow.
WHY: As the construction of I-65 progressed through Williamson County in the 1950s and 60s, towns along the interstate route exploded in growth and along with that growth came a number of lovely Mid-Century Modern homes. Many don’t see the historic value in modern architecture, but these homes are not only an excellent example of the style but also indicative of an important part of Williamson County’s recent history.
