Our Projects
Proactively Preserving Williamson County For More Than 57 Years!
The best preservation is proactive preservation which relies on maintenance, regular use, relationship building, and community engagement. This is the cornerstone of our approach to historic preservation. Each of the organizations nested under the umbrella of the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County play a key role in proactive preservation.
Preservation in Action:
HERITAGE FOUNDATION of WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TN
At the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, TN, our goal is to build as many relationships as possible with historic property owners so that they continue to care for and value their historic buildings. With a treasure trove of online resources at our fingertips, we are always on the lookout for potential threats to historic properties. By closely monitoring real estate listings, attending crucial meetings, and offering expert advice to homeowners, our team works tirelessly to protect our architectural heritage. And now, with our innovative public preservation easement program, we are making it easier than ever for people to safeguard their historic homes for generations to come.
DOWNTOWN FRANKLIN ASSOCIATION
We believe the best way to preserve our historic downtown is to keep it alive and kicking. The Downtown Franklin Association chief role in preservation is making sure that our Main Street economy thriving and that all our buildings remain occupied. However, it's not just about the bricks and mortar; it's about the soul of our community. A bustling downtown, filled with laughter and the aroma of good food, is the best advertisement for historic preservation. When people see how vibrant and successful our historic district is, it inspires others to protect their own heritage.
THE FRANKLIN THEATRE
The Franklin Theatre is another shining example of our downtown preservation efforts. By hosting a dazzling array of shows and events throughout the year, they're not only entertaining crowds but also breathing new life into our historic building. This vibrant cultural hub is a magnet for visitors and locals alike, helping to ensure our downtown remains a thriving and beloved part of our community.
MOORE-MORRIS HISTORY and CULTURE CENTER
Imagine stepping back in time as you explore the heart of Williamson County's history! The Moore-Morris History and Culture Center is more than just a museum; it's a captivating journey through the past. Housed in the historic 108 Bridge Street building, we've created a living testament to our community's heritage. It's a privilege to share these stories in such a special place, ensuring that our history remains a vital part of Williamson County's future.
FRANKLIN GROVE ESTATE & GARDENS
Beyond preserving the physical beauty of the Perkins Winstead Mansion and the Haynes Berry Mansion, Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens offers the unique opportunity to tell the story of education, particularly for women and African Americans, in Williamson County. By repurposing these historic gems into a public space, we're not only preserving them but also inspiring a new generation to appreciate the value of historic preservation. And then there's the Lee-Buckner Schoolhouse, a shining example of our commitment to protecting the legacy of African American education. We are currently in the process of restoring this Rosenwald School, so stay tuned for exciting updates!
COUNTY HISTORIC ASSET INVENTORY
In 2002, the Heritage Foundation worked with Thomason and Associates to conduct a survey of the historic resources/assets of Williamson County. Now, we are working to make that survey available to the public and to update this inventory, assisting us in identifying imminent preservation needs.
COMMUNITY ADVOCACY & SUPPORT
Our preservation team actively works with community members on their own history, preservation and green space conservation needs. From National Register for Historic Places nominations, Youth Leadership Franklin’s History Day, and more, our team is available to help you.
TN STATE HISTORIC TAX CREDIT
Historic tax credits are an important preservation tool to incentivize and reward commercial preservation projects. Tennessee is one of only 15 states that does not have a historic tax credit. Our team continues to work with local and state elected officials, architects, preservationists and others to try and pass this important economic bill.
Williamson County's Past Preservation Projects
Each project is unique, but the collective results can be attributed to visionary leaders, public-private partnerships, collaboration with other nonprofits, generous donors, and the Heritage Foundation’s outstanding Board and Staff.
Click on these projects below to read about how these properties were preserved.