Carter House
A Civil War landmark where the Carter family hid in the basement during the Battle of Franklin, now offering profound historical tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Carter House
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tours
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Civil War landmark where the Carter family hid in the basement during the Battle of Franklin, now offering profound historical tours.
"The tour guides here were particularly fantastic, making the history come alive."
🎯 Ask for Randy's Tour!
Randy is an exceptional guide, blending history with personal stories. Highly recommended!
🤫 No Photos Inside!
Enjoy the history; photos are not allowed inside the house.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bullet Holes & Battle Scars
Exterior and interior walls
Witness firsthand the impact of the Battle of Franklin with visible bullet holes and damage, a stark reminder of the conflict.
The Family's Basement Sanctuary
Basement
Imagine the Carter family and neighbors hiding in the basement during the intense fighting of the Battle of Franklin.
Stories of Enslaved People
Slave quarters and main house
Learn about the lives of the 28 enslaved individuals on the Carter farm and their experiences during this tumultuous period.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Prepare for a Chilling Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Ask for Randy's Tour!
Randy is an exceptional guide, blending history with personal stories. Highly recommended!
🤫 No Photos Inside!
Enjoy the history; photos are not allowed inside the house.
♿ Accommodating for All
The staff is very accommodating for visitors with mobility needs.
👻 Haunted History
Some visitors report paranormal experiences and a chilling atmosphere. +3
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Ask for Randy's Tour!
Randy is an exceptional guide, blending history with personal stories. Highly recommended!
🤫 No Photos Inside!
Enjoy the history; photos are not allowed inside the house.
♿ Accommodating for All
The staff is very accommodating for visitors with mobility needs.
👻 Haunted History
Some visitors report paranormal experiences and a chilling atmosphere. +3
📚 Deep Dive into History
Guides offer in-depth historical context of the Battle of Franklin. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Carter House for its profound historical significance and the exceptional quality of its guided tours. Guides are frequently highlighted for their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, making the experience educational and impactful. While the subject matter is somber, the house offers a tangible connection to the Civil War and the lives of those who lived through it.
"Where do I start? And wow, I should have paid more attention in history class. My eyes were open, and the tour guide was terrific - very educational and in-depth, providing a rich history of the place. I would highly recommend this place and make sure to be in the Ladies tour group!!"
Lori Fleming
"It’s an old house full of history. If you like that. You’ll like this. Tour guide did a good job keeping me engaged who was only here by request of my husband history nerd. No pictures allowed inside the house so enjoy some pictures of my husband while he enjoys reading placards chock full of history"
Kelly Olson
"We came here on a whim and are so glad that we did. We joined a tour late and the guide couldn't have been more accommodating. My husband is on a walker and he was very well taken care of. The guide we had was exceptional. He truly takes pride in his job and knows how to keep people interested."
Susan Miller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Carter House is located in Franklin, Tennessee, south of Nashville. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular stop for those exploring the Civil War history of the area. Many visitors combine a trip to the Carter House with other historic sites in Franklin. +1
Yes, there is typically parking available at the Carter House for visitors. It's advisable to check their official website for the most current parking information before your visit.
The Carter House is located a short distance from downtown Franklin. Depending on your starting point, it may be a walkable distance, or a very short drive.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It is highly recommended to book your tour tickets in advance, especially if you wish to join a specific tour like the 'Ladies Tour' or if you are visiting during peak season. Tours can fill up quickly.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Carter House website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and opening hours before planning your visit.
Admission is typically by guided tour, and there is a fee associated with the tour. Check the Carter House's official website for current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
Yes, photography is generally not allowed inside the Carter House. This is to help preserve the historic artifacts and maintain the integrity of the experience.
Guided tours are the primary way to experience the Carter House and are highly recommended to fully understand its historical significance. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A guided tour of the Carter House usually lasts about an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of the house's history and its role in the Battle of Franklin.
The tour guides at the Carter House are consistently praised for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make history engaging. Many visitors highlight them as a key part of the experience. +3
Tours cover the architecture of the house, the experiences of the Carter family, the lives of enslaved people on the farm, and the intense events of the Battle of Franklin that unfolded around the property. +5
Many visitors and some staff report experiencing a 'chilling' atmosphere and paranormal phenomena at the Carter House, adding a layer of intrigue to the historical visit. +3
The 'Ladies Tour' is a specific tour that some visitors highly recommend, suggesting it offers a unique perspective or focus. It's advisable to inquire about its availability when booking.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Carter House itself does not typically offer dining facilities. However, Franklin, TN has a vibrant downtown area with numerous restaurants and cafes nearby where you can find a variety of food options.
Generally, food and drinks are not permitted inside historic homes like the Carter House to protect the artifacts and structure. It's best to consume them before or after your tour.
📸 📸 Photography
While photography is prohibited inside, the exterior of the Carter House offers many picturesque opportunities. Capture the historic architecture, the grounds, and the famous bullet holes on the exterior walls. +1
Yes, the bullet holes on the exterior of the house are a significant historical feature and are excellent subjects for photography. +1
Focus on the architectural details of the house, the surrounding grounds, and the visible scars of the battle on the exterior. The contrast of sunlight through bullet holes is also a unique visual.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking tours in advance to ensure a spot. Be aware that the content discusses the realities of war and slavery, so gauge your children's sensitivity. The grounds offer space for kids to move around before or after the tour.
🤓 History Buffs & Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the bullet holes, the basement sanctuary, and the stories of the enslaved people. These elements offer a tangible connection to the past that textbooks cannot replicate. Don't miss the opportunity to hear from guides like Randy, who are celebrated for their expertise.
👻 Paranormal Investigators & Curious Minds
While the focus is historical, be open to the possibility of encountering residual energy or unexplained occurrences. The stories of the battle and the lives lived and lost here contribute to its eerie allure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Carter House and the Battle of Franklin
During the battle, the Carter family, along with neighbors and enslaved individuals, sought refuge in the basement of the house. This cramped and dark space became a sanctuary amidst the chaos and violence raging above. The experience of those hiding within the basement, enduring the sounds of battle and the constant threat of danger, is a central part of the Carter House's narrative. Visitors can still tour this significant area, offering a profound connection to the human cost of the war.
Understanding the Carter House is inseparable from understanding the Battle of Franklin, one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War. The house and its grounds serve as a living museum, preserving the stories of soldiers, civilians, and enslaved people who were impacted by this pivotal event. The preservation efforts ensure that future generations can learn from this history and reflect on its enduring lessons.
Life and Slavery at the Carter Farm
Visitors can learn about individuals like Susie Carter Mayberry, who was enslaved at the Carter farm. Her story, and those of others like her, highlight the complex realities of life under slavery, including their resilience, family bonds, and eventual paths after emancipation. The slave quarters themselves, though modest, are preserved to provide a glimpse into the living conditions and the essential role these individuals played in the farm's economy.
Exploring the history of slavery at the Carter House is vital for a complete understanding of the era. It underscores the human element of this dark chapter in American history and emphasizes the importance of remembering and learning from these experiences.
The Paranormal and 'Chilling' Atmosphere
Reports range from unexplained sounds, such as screams heard when no one else is around, to feelings of unease and the sense of a presence. Some believe these phenomena are residual energy from the intense trauma and violence that occurred during the Battle of Franklin. The presence of artifacts like a bloodstained couch further contributes to the eerie ambiance.
While the historical significance is the primary draw, the haunted reputation adds another layer of intrigue for those interested in the supernatural. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the palpable sense of history and the stories of the past at the Carter House are undeniable.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit