Over the past several weeks, the historic significance of the Truett property, including the 7.2 acres proposed for the Middle Eight development, has been called into question, despite the extensive information we have provided. Therefore, we’ve had representation at the National Archives in Washington D.C. the past few days. We’ve secured several hundred additional pages of research connected to the Truett property. Key points include the following:
- Hundreds were encamped on the property, starting as early as 1862
- Two formerly enslaved persons testified to the realities of the war, including the destruction of Truett’s property during occupation
- Several townspeople testified to Truett’s character and the losses surrounding his property
- Truett attempted to receive compensation for damages to his property. However, it would be his son Edwin C. Truett, who finally received compensation from the U.S. Government nearly 50 years after the war.
- The property’s story goes deeper and wider, witnessing the shifts on the physical and cultural landscapes and is representative of why further study on the property is warranted.
The Heritage Foundation would like to reiterate our only requests, which have all been presented and declined thus far by the developer.
- reduce the heights to three stories to contextually align with the current local historic district guidelines for Franklin Road Historic District and surrounding neighborhoods.
- GPR with an archaeological survey
- A preservation plan that would guide inclusive interpretation of the property, educating those who live on site and those who are visitors to Franklin.
Advocating for the preservation of our historic and cultural resources has never been more important than it is now. We encourage everyone to come to city hall tonight (August 22nd) at 7 pm to make your voices heard.