5 minute read
THE FACTORY at Franklin AND ITS NEW ERA!
By Carris Campbell
When Holladay Properties acquired The Factory at Franklin in October of 2021, they knew they were not just purchasing a historic property but embracing a cherished icon with a rich industrial past. The Factory, home to four different manufacturers for over 62 years, is a local landmark attracting neighbors and tourists alike. While Allen Manufacturing Company (1929-1932), Dortch Stove Works (1933-1955), Magic Chef Inc., (19551961), and Jamison Bedding Company (1961-1991) provided critical employment opportunities for the citizens of Williamson County during The Factory’s manufacturing heyday; it was the efforts of Calvin LeHew that saved The Factory from demolition. LeHew, a local businessman and preservationist, envisioned it as a unique destination that would preserve Franklin's history while embracing its future. Over the decades, The Factory blossomed into a diverse hub featuring local boutiques, studios, and eateries, becoming integral to the fabric of Williamson County.
Recently, visitors to The Factory have noticed ongoing renovations amidst its vibrant atmosphere. The Nashville-based Stove Works the first industrial power to operate at The Factory received such strong support from the local community that they began hiring before the plant had been completed. Much like its early days when construction coexisted with operations, today's renovations reflect a commitment to enhancing the venue while keeping its doors open to the public.
For over two decades, all manner of local flavors and favorites have found their place at The Factory, from gift shops, children’s boutiques, and dance studios to fine dining, pottery painting, and cooking institutions. When Calvin sold the Factory in 2012, over 72 tenants had set up across the 12 buildings on campus. New ownership brought in iconic establishments, like Mojo’s Tacos, Honest Coffee Roasters, and Franklin Juice Co., alongside cultural institutions like Studio Tenn, the local professional theater company, that’s called The Factory home for nearly a decade.
After 20 years and a pandemic, however, life at The Factory began to slow down. Visitors walked the halls reminiscing about the days it had been full of vibrant shops and shoppers. Yet, even in quieter times, a core group of dedicated staff, businesses, and patrons kept the spirit alive, fostering a sense of potential and resilience.
Holladay Properties recognized this potential, coming in with a mission of building off the groundwork past owners had laid while supporting long-term tenants and finding the right mix of shops, restaurants, and community-focused businesses to give everyone their spotlight.
Locals and tourists can enter The Factory and enjoy a bite of Middle Tennessee favorites in one stop! Whether you’re meeting friends for happy hour, searching for the perfect after-dinner dessert, or looking for a local restaurant to cater your special event, the variety of eateries is sure to please. The Skylight Bar situated in the Grand Hall of The Factory, is an airy space providing specialty cocktails, local beers, and an exquisite wine list. The Skylight hosts weekly live entertainment, trivia, and special themes throughout the year. The Factory boasts an open campus, so shoppers can order a beverage from The Skylight and request a travel cup to continue sipping while they browse.
Looking ahead, The Factory at Franklin stands poised at the cusp of a new chapter — one that honors its past while embracing innovation and community engagement. As construction barriers give way to renewed opportunities, Franklin's beloved landmark continues to evolve, promising locals and visitors alike a place where history, culture, and commerce converge in harmony.
Make plans to visit The Factory at Franklin located at 230 Franklin Road in Franklin, Tennessee, and enjoy a day of shopping and one of its many tasty dining establishments. The Factory is open daily 7:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. For additional information, visit factoryatfranklin.com and follow them on social media at @thefactoryatfranklin.
Carris Campbell, a Franklin native, is the staff historian at The Factory at Franklin. Specializing in industrial heritage and adaptive reuse, after obtaining her Master’s at the American University of Rome she returned home to study The Factory at Franklin.
EATS & DRINKS
IN THE FACTORY AT FRANKLIN
Bubble Love Tea
Edley’s Bar-B-Que
Etch (Coming Soon)
Five Daughters Bakery
Fork of the South General Store
Franklin Juice Company
Greys Fine Cheeses
Hattie B’s Hot Chicken
Honest Coffee Roasters
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream
Mojo’s Tacos
Otaku Ramen
Saffire
The Skylight Bar
Slim & Husky’s Pizza Beeria (Coming Soon)
The White Alligator
Two Hands (Coming Soon)
