Battle of Franklin Trust Hopes to Raise $150,000 in One Night

The Carter House

The purchase of the Lovell property has a price tag of about $2.8 million, and the Battle of Franklin Trust is hoping to raise a good portion of that on a single night in mid-October at their $150,000 For The Battlefield event.

This signature kickoff event will be held at The Carter House on Thursday, Oct.16 from 4 to 7 p.m. Funds raised will be allocated entirely toward the Lovell property project. The property is a component of the Carter’s Hill Park that is emerging along Columbia Pike.

Once part of the Carter family garden, the Lovell property was caught in the midst of the some furious fighting during the Battle of Franklin. It is currently home to the Flower Shop and Williamson County CASA, both of which will relocate elsewhere in Franklin after the purchase.

On May 27, The Battle of Franklin Trust and Franklin’s Charge jointly entered into a contract and agreed to raise $2.8 million in one year to complete the purchase of the property. Encompassing 2.6 acres, the land will become part of the 20-acre Carter’s Hill Battlefield Park.

Local developer Calvin Lehew recently committed to lead the fundraising charge with a $50,000 donation. At least five other donors have contributed amounts of at least $5,000 each and the Trust aims to raise the remaining $75,000 on or before Oct. 16.

During the $150,000 For The Battlefield event, donation and pledge tables will be set up around the historic site for guests to contribute to the cause. To reach its goal, the Trust will need at least 300 individuals or organizations to each make a minimum $250 donation, but any larger contribution is welcome. Pledges may be made as long as they are fulfilled by May 31, 2015.

“This one of a kind event is an opportunity for the local community to engage in battlefield preservation and make a profound impact,” said Battle of Franklin Trust CEO Eric A. Jacobson. “Saving this property is a legacy that future generations, both here in Franklin and across the country, will appreciate for generations to come.”

The Carter House is located at 1140 Columbia Ave, Franklin, TN 37064. Catering will be provided by Copper Kettle and drinks will be provided by Red Dog Wine & Spirits. Three John Paul Strain historic art prints, all depicting events at Spring Hill and Franklin, will be auctioned during the event, and all donors will receive a free Battle of Franklin Trust annual membership as well as an “I Helped Save the Battlefield” t-shirt. For more information, please call Laurie McPeak at 615-794-0903.