Franklin County, located in the southern part of Tennessee, boasts a rich history. Here are some interesting facts about the county's history:
1. Named after Benjamin Franklin – Franklin County was named after founding father Benjamin Franklin in 1807. The county was established by the Tennessee state legislature that year, and it was named in honor of the famous statesman and inventor.
2. Founded on a land grant – The county was founded on a land grant that was given to Revolutionary War veteran Samuel C. Vance. Vance had fought in the Battle of Kings Mountain in 1780, and he was given the land in Franklin County as a reward for his service.
3. Early Native American occupation – Before European settlers arrived in the area, Franklin County was home to a number of Native American tribes. The Cherokee, Chickasaw, and Creek all had a presence in the area.
4. Civil War history – Franklin County was the site of several important Civil War battles, including the Battle of Tullahoma and the Battle of Chickamauga. Confederate General John Bell Hood also led his troops through Franklin County during his disastrous 1864 campaign in Tennessee.
5. Home to a famous mineral spring – Franklin County was home to the famous Sewanee Mineral Springs in the 19th century. The springs were a popular tourist destination, and people would come from all over the country to drink the mineral water and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
6. A hub for moonshiners – The rugged terrain of Franklin County made it a popular spot for moonshiners during Prohibition. Bootleggers would set up stills in the hills and make illegal liquor, which they would then transport to nearby cities.
7. Birthplace of a famous country singer – Franklin County is the birthplace of country music legend George Jones. Jones was born in Saratoga, Tennessee, in 1931, and he went on to become one of the most successful and beloved country singers of all time.
Overall, Franklin County has a fascinating history that is worth exploring. From its early Native American occupation to its role in the Civil War and beyond, Franklin County has played an important role in the development of Tennessee and the United States as a whole.
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