Six years ago,the City of Franklin opened the first phase of Harlinsdale Park. For those that are new to the area, or have never heard of the history of Harlinsdale Farm, the City of Franklin says:
“Harlinsdale Farm has been called the most significant historic farm associated with the modern Tennessee Walking Horse industry. In 1933, W.W. Harlin established the farm on the northern outskirts of great renown in the fledging Tennessee Walking Horse Industry. As famous as the farm itself is its prize stallion Midnight Sun. This famous horse became the first repeat World Grand Champion. The success of Midnight Sun in the ring and as a sire has never been matched by any other Tennessee Walking Horse. Even today, most champion Walking Horses trace their lineage to Midnight Sun.”
And while Tennessee Walkers are a rich part of the history of Harlinsdale a group of “friends” gathered together to bring a different conceptual idea to Harlinsdale, one that celebrates all horses.
Enter Franklin Tomorrow and Friends of Franklin Parks . Both entities started the Raise the Roofs (RTR) event last year to bring awareness to all the parks in Franklin, but especially Harlinsdale. Hard work is already evident with the emergence of the re-built Hayes House and the barn. But Friends of Franklin Parks President, Dr. Monty McInturff, and many other Board members , sponsors and supporters , have their eyes on a bigger picture:
Picture it: Fresh mown fields, Indoor Equestrian Events, Dressage, Hunter Jumpers, Flat Races, and yes…dare to dream..Polo Matches! In fact, a Polo Exhibition took place at Raise the Roofs 2 (a Franklin Tomorrow Event for the Friends of Franklin Parks) and may have been the first of its kind at Harlinsdale.
The plan, which was presented to the Board of Mayor and Alderman on April 9th, is a dream that not just Franklin Tomorrow, the Friends of Franklin Parks or its sponsors believe in. These renderings by Kiser-Vogrin Design, who are being assisted by Barge Waggoner Sumner & Cannon and Boyle Investment were the buzz amongst the 400+ people who bought seats to this years’ Raise the Roofs event. Even Senator Jack Johnson, whose band played the event, was a little giddy at the announcement while he was on stage.
At this point, it is important to point out this is a plan in its infancy. There are many legal and historical jumps to be made. But Friends of Franklin Parks seem to have possibly come up with a plan that makes sense to tourism, business, and something the citizens of Franklin will enjoy. If you would like to support Friends of Franklin Parks, please visit their website: www.friendsoffranklinparks.org
