The Tennessee Historical Commission recently announced the addition of 7 sites to the National Register of Historic Places. Two of these new additions rest here in Williamson County. The Franklin City Cemetery and Rest Haven Cemetery were added and the boundary for the Leiper’s Fork Historic District was increased.
“The National Register honors places that help Tennesseans understand our heritage and what makes our communities unique and enjoyable,” said Patrick McIntyre, executive director of the Tennessee Historical Commission. “We are confident this recognition will help retain these unique sites for future generations to know and appreciate.”
The Franklin and Rest Haven Cemeteries are across the street from each other on North Margin Street. Many of the city’s first settlers are buried in the Franklin Cemetery representing the early settlement and 19th century burial practices. It also contains many artistically interesting monuments dating from 1811 to 1936. The Rest Haven Cemetery was not officially established until 1855, but the first interment there was in 1842 and it continued to be used until 1969. It depicts the later development of the city of Franklin and contains examples of funerary art. It also contains burials of family groups, often with stone or metal borders. Guided Tours are available through Franklin On Foot by calling (615) 400-3808.
Originally listed on the Historic Register in 1998, The Leiper’s Fork Historic District included predominantly residential areas. It has been expanded to include commercial building and more houses. This inclusion shows the importance of the commercial core of the community during the mid-20th century. Additional architectural styles are now part of the district including Gothic Revival and Folk Victorian.
For more information about the National Register of Historic Places or the Tennessee Historical Commission, please visit the website at www.tnhistoricalcommission.org.
