The Historic Franklin Presbyterian Church is one of the oldest churches in the region, dating back to 1811. During the Civil War, it was used as a hospital for the Federal Troops. It has survived two fires and incurred storm damage in 2013.
Due to the storm damage, the church’s roof was in need of repair along with the gutters and flashing. As the church prepared for these repairs, they knew it was also time to replace the cross which sits on top of the church.
The old cross was metal tin painted white and stood about 8 feet tall. The cross was also upside down! You can see a picture of the old cross below, to the left.
Through much discussion with R.D. Herbert Roofing Company in Nashville (who replaced all of the copper gutters and flashing), they crafted a new copper cross. The design is very much the same with the exception that the cross now stands at 19 feet tall, making it one of the highest points in downtown Franklin. It also has the initials of the church –HFPC– in stainless steel in the middle of the cross.
Mike Ensch from HFPC says, “the new cross is very heavy with at least 20 lbs of souter. During the dedication of the cross, the question was asked if we wanted the cross to be right side up or upside down! Of course, we said we want this cross to hang right side up.”
Micheal Lee Company was also involved in restoration of the inside of the church, as there was also interior damage to the church during the storm of 2013. HFPC takes part in the monthly Franklin Art Scene, in which you can take a look inside this historic treasure in downtown Franklin. The pews that have survived all of the fires date back to the 1800s as well as the stained glass windows. Ensch says HFPC enjoys being a part of the community and hopes that the new cross will be become a focal point for 5 Points in downtown Franklin.
To learn more about HFPC, visit their website.
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