Franklin: History, Art and Concert Evenings

Franklin combines historic sites with art, concert evenings and a section of the Cave Country Bike Tour. Its history takes different forms: a former inn stood along the Cumberland Trace, the Simpson County Archives and Museum is housed in former jail buildings, and Octagon Hall has served several historic purposes. There are also events and offerings with their own distinct focuses.

Historic Sites and Their Functions

The Franklin Downtown Commercial District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. By 1822 at the latest, the Sandford Duncan Inn was an inn along the Cumberland Trace; its site was also a well-known dueling ground. The inn and the dueling ground give the site two distinct historical associations.

Octagon Hall was built in 1847. The building served as a residence, Masonic lodge and hospital, and was a refuge for soldiers during the Civil War. In contrast to the Sandford Duncan Inn, the focus here is on the building’s different uses and its role during the Civil War. The area’s historic character thus ranges from an inn along the Cumberland Trace to a building that was used in several different contexts.

A Museum and Buildings from Different Periods

The Simpson County Archives and Museum is housed in the former jail and the former jailer’s residence. The Old Jail was built in 1879; the residence associated with the museum dates to around 1830, making it about five decades older. Staff from the Simpson County Historical Society give tours of the museum. Together, the two buildings bring different periods of construction together in one place.

Concerts, Art and Spirits

Summer Nights Concerts are free Friday evening concerts on the square in downtown Franklin. The concert series returns, but its schedule may change. So if you plan to attend a concert evening, check the specific dates before your trip.

Gallery on the Square offers art, jewelry and food made in Kentucky, as well as changing art exhibitions. Its offerings may change. For art lovers, the gallery brings together Kentucky-made goods and an exhibition program that is not always the same.

Dueling Grounds Distillery offers a look at the production process. You can also create your own flight of mini cocktails and spirits. This focus differs from that of the gallery: here, the emphasis is on production and putting together a flight, while the gallery focuses on art, exhibitions and goods made in Kentucky.

Franklin on the Cycling Route

The Kentucky section of the Cave Country Bike Tour is designated U.S. Bike Route 23 and runs through Simpson County and the city of Franklin. For anyone including a cycling trip in their plans, it offers a different point of interest from the historic buildings or cultural offerings: a named route section through the city and county. If you’re looking for a hotel in Franklin, the history, a concert date or the cycling route can help you choose the focus of your stay.

For the broader travel overview: Simpson County.