Grave Matters in the Cemetery Raise Funds for Preservation

 Franklin on Foot, Heritage Foundation Partner to Share Stories Behind the Tombstones

It’s the personal stories of everyday life and important events that make history matter, and Franklin’s Rest Haven and Old City cemeteries are full of gripping tales and touching anecdotes from the citizens who founded Franklin, experienced the Civil War here and were a part of other key moments in the town’s history.

Twice in 2011, local walking tour operator Franklin on Foot partnered with the Heritage Foundation of Franklin and Williamson County to offer guided tours of the cemeteries, including costumed re-enactors portraying the most colorful, historically important and often tragic souls buried there. The popular events attracted hundreds of people, and in December, Margie Thessin of Franklin on Foot presented a check for $2,000 to the Heritage Foundation. Proceeds from the events will support the Heritage Foundation’s efforts to preserve history in Franklin and Williamson County.

“It’s so important that we include the people who shaped the future of Franklin as we share the stories of what’s happened here over the course of 200 years,” says Mary Pearce, executive director of the Heritage Foundation. “Through Franklin on Foot, Margie Thessin does a phenomenal job of bringing those stories to life.”

Franklin on Foot offers guided walking tours year-round. For more information, visit www.franklinonfoot.com.

Founded in 1967 by a group of citizens with vision who wanted to protect the historic resources that make Franklin and Williamson County a special place, the Heritage Foundation has played a major role in keeping Franklin and Williamson County from becoming “Anywhere USA.”The Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting and preserving our historic resources.  Programs include the award-winning Main Street Program, and the Downtown Franklin Association which promotes and revitalizes the 150 unique places to explore in the 15-block downtown National Register District. To learn more, visit www.historicfranklin.com.