A Story Redefined: A Companion Guide for Carnton, Carter House, and Rippa Villa

Our new companion guide follows the McGavock, Carter, and Cheairs families from the founding of the nation through westward expansion, the growing divide regarding slavery, the American Civil War, the arrival of that war on their doorsteps, the daring escape at Spring Hill and the devastating loss at Franklin, the rebuilding of these communities and the nation through the triumphs and failures of Reconstruction, and the continued effort in pursuit of our Founding ideal of Equality. Stunning photographs, maps, and artwork enliven and bring clarity to the stories.  

“You have helped me understand more about American history in one hour than I learned in college.” 

We frequently hear phrases like this from guests. As we weave the story of America through the stories of the families, white and black, who lived at Carnton, the Carter farm, and Rippa Villa, it becomes vivid and profoundly meaningful. Now, you can take that story home with you.

Welcome to The Battle of Franklin Trust Online Store

The Battle of Franklin Trust is dedicated to a better understanding of a people forever impacted by the American Civil War. We manage Carter House and Carnton in historic Franklin, Tennessee, and operate on admissions, gift shop sales, membership, and donations.

Thank you for your support!

BEST SELLERS

For Cause and For Country
$29.99

by Eric A. Jacobson and Richard A. Rupp

The battles at Spring Hill and Franklin, Tennessee, in the late autumn of 1864 were watershed moments in the American Civil War. Thousands of hardened veterans and a number of recruits, as well as former West Point classmates, found themselves moving through Middle Tennessee in the last great campaign of a long and bitter war. Replete with bravery, dedication, bloodshed, and controversy, these battles led directly to the conclusion of action in the Western Theater. Spring Hill and Franklin, which were once long ignored and seldom understood, have slowly been regaining their place on the national stage. They remain one of the most compelling episodes of the Civil War.

Through exhaustive research and the use of sources never before published, the stories of both battles come vividly to life in For Cause & For Country. Over 100 pages of material have been added to this new edition, including new maps and photos. The genesis and early stages of the Tennessee Campaign play out in clear and readable fashion. The lost opportunity at Spring Hill is evaluated in great detail, and the truth of what happened there is finally shown based on evidence rather than conjecture. The intricate dynamics of the Confederate high command, and especially the roles of General John Bell Hood and General Frank Cheatham, are given special attention. For Cause & For Country is “a highly complex but skillfully organized, easy-to-follow campaign narrative written in stirring fashion” (Civil War Books and Authors).

Hardcover, 630 pages.

The McGavock Confederate Cemetery: A Revised and Updated Compilation
$14.99

By Eric A. Jacobson

A brand new printing of the book detailing the complex story of the McGavock Cemetery and the full list of the Confederate soldiers buried there. Never before has such an accurate compilation been published. Historians and genealogists will find this book a much needed addition to Civil War literature. Modern day descendants of those buried in the cemetery will find this book invaluable.

Soft cover, 200 pages.