Carnton

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Carnton is a historic plantation house and museum located in Franklin, Tennessee, United States. The site gained national attention for its role during and after the Battle of Franklin, a significant encounter during the American Civil War on November 30, 1864. The Carnton plantation served as a field hospital for Confederate soldiers and is notable for the family who lived there, the McGavocks, who played a crucial role in caring for the wounded and as stewards of the Confederate cemetery established on the grounds.

History

The Carnton plantation was built in 1826 by former Nashville mayor Randal McGavock (1766–1843). His son, John McGavock, inherited the property and was the owner during the time of the Civil War. The house and its inhabitants were witnesses to one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, where it found its place in history not just as a home but as a sanctuary for those caught in the conflict.

During the Battle of Franklin, Carnton became a makeshift hospital. The floors of the house still bear the bloodstains of the soldiers who were treated there, and the family's efforts to care for the wounded and dying are well documented. After the battle, John McGavock and his wife, Carrie Winder McGavock, dedicated a portion of their land as a final resting place for nearly 1,500 Confederate soldiers, making the McGavock Confederate Cemetery the largest privately held military cemetery in the nation.

Preservation and Museum

In the years following the Civil War, Carnton remained in the McGavock family until it was sold in the early 20th century. The house and grounds went through various owners until the Historic Carnton Plantation, a non-profit organization, was formed to preserve and restore the property. Today, Carnton serves as a museum and is open to the public for tours, educational programs, and special events. The site is a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Civil War and the personal stories of those who lived through it.

Visitors to Carnton can explore the restored house, the Confederate cemetery, and the surrounding plantation grounds, which include a restored garden that reflects the period. The museum offers a variety of tours, including guided tours of the house and grounds, "Twilight Tours" of the cemetery, and educational programs for students and adults.

Cultural Impact

Carnton and its history have inspired various works of literature and art. The most notable is the novel "The Widow of the South" by Robert Hicks, which is based on the life of Carrie McGavock and her role following the Battle of Franklin. The novel brought renewed attention to Carnton and its significance in American history.

See Also

• Battle of Franklin
• American Civil War
• Historic preservation
• Confederate States of America

External Links

Note: As per the given constraints, external links and references are not provided in this article.