Carnton Plantation

Activity Overview

Carnton Plantation is a historic plantation and museum located less than 20 miles south of Nashville in Franklin, Tennessee. It is run by The Battle of Franklin Trust, an organization that manages two historic sites that witnessed the important Battle of Franklin during the Civil War in 1864. Today, they welcome visitors to tour the Carnton Plantation as well as the nearby Carter House in order to learn about this historic battle and the people who lived through it. If you're looking for a fascinating historic site where the whole family can learn about Tennessee's role in the Civil War, take a trip to Carnton Plantation!

Things to Do

• Take a guided tour of Carnton Plantation, which was built in 1826 by a former mayor of Nashville. During the Battle of Franklin it was used as a field hospital, taking in hundreds of Confederate soldiers that were wounded in battle.
• Explore the grounds of the historic site! There's plenty to see, including original outbuildings that you can peek into. Make sure to bring along a camera so you can take photos too.
• Visit the nearby Carter House, which is included in the admission price, to see the house where the Carter and Lotz families took refuge from the historic battle.

Carnton Plantation Insider Tips

• Check out the Education Programs page of their website to learn about special programs designed to teach visitors of all ages about the Battle of Franklin and its importance in the Civil War, including hands-on history programs, scout programs, and summer camps.
• If your family loves historic sites, consider purchasing a Value Ticket - it includes discounted admission to Carnton Plantation, the Carter House, and the Lotz House, another Civil War house museum located in Franklin.
• Don't forget to stop by the museum store before you head home - it's full of great souvenirs, including t-shirts, history books, and more!