Home Page Guide to Williamson County - Spring 2019

T H E H O M E PA G E G U I D E T O

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

BRENTWOOD AT 50, FAIRVIEW AT 60 FAIRS, FESTIVALS, FIREWORKS AND FOOD

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Franklin progress and preservation PRESENTED BY

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Saving Places Become a Heritage Foundation member to support our vital preservation efforts.

WilliamsonHeritage.org 615.591.8500

Making Memories From incredible live music to beloved movies, you're sure to enjoy the crown jewel of Main Street.

FranklinTheatre.com 615.538.2076

Cultivating Community Downtown Franklin Association

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When you shop and dine locally, supporting small DowntownFranklinTN.com businesses, you help maintain Franklin's unmatched charm.

615.905.8937

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S PON S OR E D PROFIL E

BE PART OF THE STORY

COMPA N Y PROFIL E 112 Bridge Street, Franklin, TN 37604 615-591-8500 info@williamsonheritage.org

Heritage Foundation of Williamson County Since 1967, the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County, Tennessee has been dedicated to protecting and preserving Williamson County’s architectural, geographic and cultural heritage and promoting the ongoing revitalization of downtown Franklin and its history. As one of the nation’s most respected historic preservation societies, the Heritage Foundation works tirelessly with area leaders to care for historic spaces, treasured landmarks and cherished local businesses. In short, we save the places that matter in Williamson County.

Become a Heritage Foundation member and enjoy countless benefits all year long!

WilliamsonHeritage.org/ Membership

The Foundation brings county history to about 3,000 students each year through the Heritage Classroom program and walking tours of downtown Franklin.

Events and festivals produced by the Heritage Foundation such as Main Street Festival, the Heritage Ball, Pumpkinfest and Dickens of a Christmas bring hundreds of thousands of locals and visitors to the county each year.

The Heritage Foundation owns and operates three divisions: The Franklin Theatre, the Downtown Franklin Association and Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens.

Visit WilliamsonHeritage.org for more information about the Foundation’s preservation efforts and to become a member!

The Franklin Theatre

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With the support of over a thousand donors, the Heritage Foundation stepped in to buy and rehabilitate this historic landmark.

Since 2011, The Franklin Theatre has produced iconic live music performances, showed movies and hosted many other entertainment productions. Visit FranklinTheatre.com for a list of upcoming events.

Downtown Franklin Association

⋅ 200,000+ Festivals and Special Events Attendance in 2018

⋅ 5,850 Volunteer Hours in 2018 ⋅ 1,348 Donors in 2018 ⋅ 1,100+ Members in 2018 ⋅ 56 Sponsors in 2018 ⋅ 25+ Events in 2018 S PE C I A LT IE S PRESERVATION We preserve by advocating for and raising the funds to preserve historic buildings, Civil War sites, green space and other community resources.

Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens

EDUCATION The Heritage Classroom program brings Williamson County history to more than 3,000 public, private and homeschooled children each year through classroom programs and walking tours of downtown. We also support the efforts of county historian Rick Warwick as he continues to research and document Williamson County’s history as well as educate the public on historic resources.

The Foundation’s latest project is also the largest preservation project of the organization’s 52-year history. The vision for Franklin Grove includes restoring two historic mansions, creating beautiful gardens, providing space for historic and art collections, creating a home base for the Foundation’s education programs and more.

Visit WilliamsonHeritage.org/FranklinGrove for more information.

EVENTS Local residents enjoy a variety of street festivals and events produced by the Heritage Foundation and its affiliates. Main Street Festival, the Heritage Ball, Pumpkinfest and Dickens of a Christmas bring hundreds of thousands of locals and visitors to historic downtown Franklin each year.

Since its founding in 1984, the Downtown Franklin Association (DFA) is a membership-based organization of over 175 downtown businesses. The Association has spearheaded the revitalization of Franklin’s historic downtown core and has earned national recognition as an accredited Main Street Program and “Great American Main Street.” Visit DowntownFranklinTN.com to plan your day in this charming city.

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S PON S OR E D PROFIL E COMPA N Y PROFIL E The Battle of Franklin Trust manages Carter House and Carnton: two historic sites that witnessed the 1864 Battle of Franklin. Its mission is to preserve, understand and interpret the story of a people forever impacted by the American Civil War.

S PE C I A LT IE S Open Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. 5 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Classic Tours offered daily.

Battle of Franklin Trust

SPECIALTY TOURS AVAILABLE. Battlefield Tour: Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m.

Carter House was built in 1830.

It was home to Fountain Branch Carter and his family who were witness to one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War on November 30, 1864. The home was used as a Federal command post while the Carter family, some of their slaves, and neighbors sought refuge in the basement during the fighting which erupted across their property.

Carnton was built in 1826. It was home to John McGavock and his family and was one of the premier farms in Williamson County prior to the Civil War. The McGavocks were directly impacted by the Battle of Franklin and their home was used as a hospital for wounded Confederate soldiers.

The McGavock Confederate Cemetery is also on site.

Classic tours of the homes are offered daily, and a combination ticket for Carter House and Carnton is $30, which is a savings of $6 per person. Battlefield tours offer guests a walking experience of the Franklin battlefield. Behind the Scenes tours allow guests

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to visit areas on the grounds not included in the traditional tour.

Extended tours are offered to give a deeper understanding of the historic and societal impact of the Civil War. Slavery and the Enslaved tours focus on slavery as an institution and the individuals who were enslaved at each site.

Carter House Extended Tour:

The Battle of Franklin Trust is dedicated to a better understanding of a people forever impacted by the American Civil War. In addition to traditional educational programming, The Battle of Franklin Trust produces Tenn in 20, a podcast discussing Tennessee history. Student group tours and History Summer Camp are offered to engage and educate the younger generation.

Wednesday – Friday, 10 a.m.

Community events such as the Sunset Concert Series, Bootlegger’s Bash and the Illumination on the Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin are offered annually to support the mission of preservation. To schedule your visit or to learn more about events, visit boft.org.

June 30 & July 28

Monday – Saturday, 2 p.m.

Slavery and the Enslaved at Carter House: Tuesday, 10 a.m.

Carnton Extended Tour: Monday – Saturday, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Carnton Behind the Scenes:

Slavery and the Enslaved at Carnton: Thursday, 10 a.m.

A NNUA L E V E N T S A ND PRO G R A MMIN G History Summer Camp: June 18-20 & July 16-18 Sunset Concert Series:

Bootlegger’s Bash: September 27 Blue & Gray Days: November 7-9 Battle of Franklin Anniversary and Illumination: November 30

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STEVE HARMAN

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Brentwood puts the finishing touches on 50 years of careful residential growth

What you need to know about Franklin government and services

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Williamson County villages thrive under growth pressures

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Check out our Franklin itinerary

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Nolensville book project creates a visual history of the town

What you need to know about Williamson County government and services

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Williamson County events calendar

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What you need to know about Brentwood government and services

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What you need to know about Nolensville government and services

Fairview also is celebrating a milestone anniversary this year

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What you need to know about Spring Hill government and services

What you need to know about Fairview government and services

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What you need to know about Thompson's Station government and services

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Franklin preserves its historic heart while pushing forward on all fronts

Keep up with the news, sports, business and things to do in Williamson County with the Home Pages, and subscribe to our daily email newsletters: brentwoodhomepage.com franklinhomepage.com nolensvillehomepage.com springhillhomepage.com businesswilliamson.com

GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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Dear Home Page readers, I have always loved birthdays — especially mine. Maybe it is the celebrating with family or maybe it is the opportunity to recognize a milestone. So I’m ready for a big old party — happy decade birthday to Brentwood Home Page!

It's been ten years since Susan Leathers and I became partners and started BrentwoodHomePage.com. In that time, the residents of Williamson County have seen ceaseless change and the Home Pages have reported on just about all of it, including government, schools, sports, crime, courts or of course, traffic.

While the business of journalism is certainly in disarray, the practice of local journalism is not and is more important than ever. In some cases, we are the only presence at a government meeting that will report to the citizens what their government has decided or will be deciding and how that affects their lives.

In 2012, we began our expansion with FranklinHomePage.com and every year after that with Nolensville, Spring Hill, Bellevue, Sumner County and two online magazines, Style Home Page and Business Williamson.

In 2018, Home Page Media Group was acquired by another local media company, FW Publishing. The pooling of resources and investments by owners Bill Freeman and Jimmy Webb is setting FWP up for a bright future. With collaboration between the Home Pages and the Nashville properties, Nashville Post, NFocus Magazine and Nashville Scene, we are forging ahead in our mission to give Middle Tennessee the news coverage it needs and deserves.

And the last very exciting change I’ll mention is in your hands. We've been staunchly digital until now but what we've learned through collaboration is that digital lifts print and print lifts digital. Readership grows when you marry the two and so does awareness.

Thank you to our loyal readers who have supported our Home Pages.

Thank you to the editorial staff who have spent hours creating for you and thank you to our sales team for working to generate revenue which makes it all possible. One special shout out must be made to senior account executive Sue Falls, who has been with the company for nineand-a-half years.

Lastly, thank you to our advertisers and sponsors. Without you, we simply would not be. We always hope to support you and bring our readership to your doors.

editorial PUBLISHER Kelly Gilfillan EDITOR Mark Cook CONTRIBUTING WRITER Susan Leathers

art & production ART DIRECTOR Christie Passarello CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Andrew Collignon, Steve Harman PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Matt Bach GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Mary Louise Meadors, Tracey Starck

advertising ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Daniel Williams ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Debbie DeBoer, Sue Falls, Brandi Nash SALES OPERATIONS MANAGER Chelon Hill Hasty ACCOUNT MANAGER Rachel Hellewell

circulation SUBSCRIPTION MANAGER Gary Minnis CIRCULATION MANAGER Casey Sanders

business PRESIDENT Frank Daniels III CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Todd Patton CREATIVE DIRECTOR Heather Pierce IT DIRECTOR John Schaeffer SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR Susan Torregrossa

FW Publishing, LLC OWNERS Bill Freeman and Jimmy Webb 210 12th Ave. S., Suite 100 Nashville, TN 37203 nashvillepost.com

Warm regards, Kelly Gilfillan, Publisher

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The Home Page Guide to Williamson County is published by FW Publishing, LLC. For advertising information, call Daniel Williams at 615-744-3397.

For distribution information, call 615-844-9307.

Copyright © 2019 FW Publishing, LLC.

GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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2018 initial survey findings

1,000 approximate number of community partcipants

thirty-eight

unique ZIP codes, all Franklin zip codes represented and counted as majority

96%

TOP 3

next steps

feel attached to Franklin, but 24% do not know how to get involved. Franklin Tomorrow wants to lead the charge in connecting the dots between citizens, community organization and volunteer opportunities.

400+

surveys

public & private events held across Franklin community

completed

learn more about the issue or solution

get more involved in the community

build relationships & collaborate

On The Table 2019

coming in

NOVEMBER

2019 Events: April 30 July 30 October 29 7 a.m. - 9 a.m.

Rolling Hills Community Church

www.franklintomorrow.org 615.794.0998

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Second Monday of every month at rotating loactions around Franklin.

2019 Events: May 13 September 9 June 10 October 14 July 8 November 11 August 12 December 9

PO Box 383 Franklin, TN 37065

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Explore

forever impacted the lives of every American, how the Civil War

past, present, and future.

CLASSIC HOUSE TOURS AT CARNTON AND CARTER HOUSE OFFERED DAILY. Specialty Tours offered throughout the week | Extended Tours, Battlefield Tour, Slavery and the Enslaved Tours, and Behind the Scenes Tour LEARN MORE AT BOFT.ORG

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BRENTWOOD AT 50 WELCOMING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT “DOWNTOWN”

Hill Center and City Park among the new developments in the Brentwood commercial district, shown here, in this view looking southeast.

BY SUSAN LEATH ER S

The dream? A pedestrian-friendly district filled with brick-faced shops, restaurants and offices. And yes, even the possibility of – gasp – residential options that looked far different than the city’s suburban, onehouse-one-acre tradition.

A new two-block city street, christened Town Center Way and lined with wide sidewalks, paved the way for other improved streets to follow.

Alas, with too many individual landowners and too few tracts large enough to make any serious redevelopment feasible, the Town

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s the City of Brentwood celebrates its 50th birthday, it’s fitting that we go back to the beginning to understand the city’s cautiously undertaken but almost unimaginable transformation from a sleepy little suburb to a vibrant, very deliberately and carefully planned destination.

After decades of nurturing a community that emphasizes and cherishes its residen-

tial nature, Brentwood has taken measured strides toward the future, most recently envisioning commercial development that would support, and not overwhelm, the city’s neighborhoods and green spaces.

In the early 2000s Brentwood invested several years and thousands of dollars into a reimagined and revitalized vision of what “downtown Brentwood” could become.

ANDREW COLLIGNON

They called it Towne Center

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BRENTWOOD Celebrating 50 years of community, history, and fun! brentwoodtn.gov Social icon

Circle Only use blue and/or white.

For more details check out our Brand Guidelines.

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Center vision began to evaporate right along with the “e” in Town. Top that with the Great Recession, and you might have thought you’d come to the end of this story.

Not so fast.

In many ways, what didn’t happen back then in the district roughly bordered by Franklin Road, Old Hickory Boulevard, I-65 and Church Street has been a blessing.

The district has blossomed into a go-to destination for interior designers and individuals alike.

Within blocks of each other, the local owners of Spruce, Vignette, Snooty Fox and Brentwood Interiors have created unique shops offering a broad range of furnishings and home goods in addition to whimsical gifts and apparel.

Alicia Helm took a “leap of faith” 10 years ago when she and her former partner opened Spruce in Brentwood Station – the city’s original train depot -- on Church Street.

“We found the right spot for the right price and that really helped with our success. The upside of Town Center not happening is you can hold onto these locally owned boutiques and businesses,” says Helm, who couldn’t afford to rent space in a new building or even one of Brentwood’s established shopping centers.

The respective owners of Local Taco and Judge Bean’s Barbecue transformed tired restaurant

buildings into hot spots for locals hungry for new dining experiences. Stacey Rhodes’ exclusive fashion boutique moved into a transformed former bicycle shop on Franklin Road.

And yes, a handful of new buildings went up too, all built to the city’s new C-4 Town Center standards.

Among them is the Pinnacle Bank built at Town Center’s official gateway -- the corner of Franklin Road and Town Center Way. Fast forward to today and the almost-complete, 134-room Springhill Suites hotel has already changed the Town Center skyline. Developer Rakesh Govindji, president of Pinnacle Hotels, can’t wait for it to open.

“When we originally purchased this land, we had a vision of adding not only the hotel but also walkable retail and great office space,” he shares. “It’s exciting to be putting the finishing touches on that vision.”

NAI Nashville has already announced it will move into the adjoining office space later this year.

Devin McClendon, a Brentwood native and president of the commercial real estate firm, can’t wait either.

“We are not only excited to be a tenant in the project, we’re excited to be working with the restaurants and office tenants interested in joining us.”

Town Center’s first and only residential project within the district’s original footprint – a twostory, mixed-use project – is well under way on the corner opposite of Pinnacle Bank. Several blocks

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A hotel is going up near the roundabout on Town Center Way, which was the centerpiece of a new zoning district for Brentwood (left).

Hill Center Brentwood was redeveloped on the site of the Murray Ohio headquarters building adjacent to the original Hill Center (below).

STEVE HARMAN

away, the 1.12-acre lot at the corner of Wilson Pike Circle and Church Street where a forlorn white house has stood empty for more than 20 years finally sold last summer. The price? $2.8 million.

Though the original Town Center district is finally beginning to transform into a modified version of what city leaders envisioned early this century, their decision in 2012 to expand the district’s boundary spurred other, even bigger, changes that have been game changers.

Hill Center Brentwood

Ten years ago, the Hill Center was a typical 1970s-era strip mall. The Murray Ohio corporate headquarters sat empty beside it.

Across Franklin Road, historic Mooreland Mansion stood quietly in the middle of a nondescript office park. Even Brentwood Place, the Kroger- and TJ Maxx-anchored shopping center, seemed tired.

Today the drab Murray building and the Tennessee Baptist Convention headquarters are gone, replaced by the shiny, new Hill Center Brentwood, which completed the first phase of its mixed-use development in 2016.

In the mood for Mexican? Try Uncle Julio’s – but expect a wait. Prefer breakfast? Give Holler and Dash -- Cracker Barrel’s new biscuitthemed concept – a try. Resolved to get out of

your meatloaf and pot roast funk? Sign up for a cooking class or demonstration at Sur La Tab. Here you’ll find unique women’s fashion boutiques -- several of which are new to the Nashville market – along with a yoga studio and, for good measure, Nashville-favorite Jeni’s Ice Cream shop. And that’s just a sampling of the stores, restaurants and offices now open.

Another new hotel will open with additional office space once Phase II, now under way, is complete.

Meanwhile, a just-completed facelift of the original Hill Center, anchored by Fresh Market and Tennessee’s only REI store, is as busy as

ever. Growing competition hasn’t dampened the popularity of Brentwood stalwart, Puffy Muffin, where Chicken Amaretto and customdesigned cakes that defy imagination still reign.

CityPark

Across busy Franklin Road, which now thankfully includes multiple stop lights with pedestrian crossings across its five lanes, Boyle Investment Partners’ 2013 investment in what was then Synergy business park has paid off.

Today the existing office park, rebranded CityPark, surrounds six new retail buildings and a 126-room Hilton Garden Inn. A diverse mix of tenants line a transformed Executive CenGUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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The Franklin Noon Rotary club invites you to join us at

12:00 NOON EACH THURSDAY at the Williamson County Enrichment Center for our regular meetings!

110 Everbright Ave, Franklin, TN 37064 franklinnoonrotary.com 10

ter Drive with historic Moreland Manor as its anchor.

Folks hooked on Blaze Pizza’s fast-serve, wood-fired pizza often wind their way out the door and around the corner of busy restaurant. Across the street, Burger Fi features grass-fed beef burgers and fresh cut fries at its first Tennessee location. Just Love coffee shop gives nearby Starbucks a run for its money as the “it” place to meet friends or conduct an interview.

But restaurants, which also include Franklinbased 55 South, and regional chains Newk’s Eatery and Taziki’s Mediterranean Café, are just part of the CityPark mix.

Exercise studios, a jewelry shop and a home goods and gift store and more line the divided Executive Drive. This summer look for a return of the Thursday night Farmer’s Market in the grassy courtyard that fronts the mansion.

City Park now hosts popular restaurants and shops in a walkable configuration (above).

Tapestry was a controversial development when proposed and built because of Brentwood’s restrictions against multifamily residential development (above).

Brentwood Place shopping center is home to retail and restaurants (right).

STEVE HARMAN

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Tapestry

The adjacent 390-unit Tapestry welcomed its first residents in 2016. The lock-and-go lifestyle of the rental community is home to a diverse mix of residents, who range from “trailing grandparents,” single parents and young professionals.

When Stout, an upscale burger restaurant opened in Tapestry’s dedicated retail space, it quickly became a “Cheers”-like watering hole for Tapestry residents and locals alike.

Longtime Brentwood resident Sheila Cleveland called Tapestry home for over two years while her “new” ‘60s ranch home in nearby Meadow Lake subdivision underwent a major remodel.

“I loved everything about it,” says Cleveland, “especially the amenities: the workout space, the pools, and the great camaraderie among the residents.”

Most of all, she loved its location.

“Between Uber and walking, you can get to just about anywhere you need to go.”

That’s the main reason she bought in Meadow Lake, one of the city’s oldest subdivisions.

“I’m about the same distance to Starbucks as I was when I lived in Tapestry,” she says with a smile. The Williamson County School Board member walks there most mornings to meet friends and constituents.

Brentwood Place

Not to be left behind, Brentwood Place shopping center has undergone its own revitalization – several in fact – over the past decade.

In 2013, it welcomed Tennessee’s first Nordstrom Rack. Next door, TJ Maxx/Home Goods remains one of the chain’s most successful stores. SteinMart returned to the city, taking over most of the space Kroger vacated when it relocated to Peartree Village shopping center two blocks north. (Speaking of Kroger, it’s now home to one of the city’s busiest bars, nestled between the meat department and the store’s large wine and beer section. Seriously.)

Cross Corner sports pub is gone, replaced

by Ludlow & Prime steak and seafood house.

A diverse mix of smaller retail and restaurant

options line the busy center, offering everything from fine-linen Christening gowns and running shoes to massages and makeovers.

Heading back to the original Town Center, we ask Helm if Spruce has experienced any negative effects from the commercial boom and new competition.

She pauses to think about the question, but after a few seconds, still can’t come up with one.

“My apparel sales are up. Business is good.

We’ve been here 10 years – can you believe that? Best of all, we are a destination shop and our customers are loyal,” she says with an authentic air of appreciation.

And she can’t wait to learn what restaurant will be opening in the nearby Springhill Suites. “We still need more homegrown restaurants. I hope it’s a good one!”

Canterfield Senior Living

7015 Moores Lane, Brentwood, TN 37027 615.584.8749 | www.canterfieldoff ranklin.com

Luxury apartment homes for seniors.

Assisted Living. Independent Living. Memory Care.

GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

BRENTWOOD

In the 1920s, Brentwood rebounded. Gradually many of the plantation homes were bought and restored. With the construction of Interstate 65 in the 1960s, Brentwood grew and prospered, and by the 1990s the area was prospering again. Today, more than 42,000 people call the city home.

HISTORY

GOVERNMENT

The City of Brentwood was incorporated on April 15, 1969, but its history goes back much farther.

The first known residents of Brentwood were prehistoric Native Americans from the Mississippian-period who built mounds with ceremonial buildings. Such early villages have been found in the Meadowlake subdivision, at the library site on Concord Road, and at Primm Historic Park where the largest of the mounds is still visible today. By the 1400s the groups had seemingly disappeared.

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Brentwood’s first European settlers - planters and farmers – arrived in the late 1700s.

Much of the land was granted to Revolutionary War soldiers by the State of North Carolina, before Tennessee had been carved out.

Situated halfway between Nashville and Franklin, the area prospered and by the Civil War, the area was one of the richest in the state. During the war, many of the large plantation homes served as hospitals for Confederate and Union forces. The war, however, left its scar on the economy, and many homes and plantations fell to ruin.

The city operates under the Council/Manager form of government. The seven-member Board of Commissioners (informally, the City Commission) enacts laws known as ordinances and sets policies and takes other formal actions through resolutions. The Commission adopts the Capital Improvements Program and Annual Budget each year. Non-partisan city elections are held in May every two years, with the at-large commissioners serving staggered four-year-terms. The May 7, 2016 election will see four members seated.

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CITY O F BR ENT W O O D 5211 Maryland Way Brentwood, TN 37027 (615) 371-0060; www.brentwood-tn.gov

In this view looking northwest from the Brentwood Library, the city’s extensive green space is visible, with the commercial district in the distance (left).

ANDREW COLLIGNON

Native Americans lived along the Little Harpeth River long before settlers arrived in what is now Brentwood.

This burial mound is near Moores Lane (right).

To learn more about Brentwood visit B R EN TW O ODHOM E P A G E . C OM

STEVE HARMAN

After each city election, the commission elects one of its members to serve a twoyear term as mayor and another to serve as vice mayor. The board also nominates and elects citizen members of volunteer boards and commissions.

City Manager Kirk Bednar oversees the city’s day-to-day operations and ensures that the policies and programs approved by the Board of Commissioners are implemented.

Most Brentwood residents live in Williamson County government’s Districts 6 and 8, with each district electing two county commissioners and one Williamson County School board representative. The city falls in State Legislative Districts 61 and 63, State Senate District 23, and U.S. Congressional District 7.

U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R) is a Brentwood resident.

For more information: www.brentwoodtn.gov/ your-government; www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov

DEPARTMENTS AND SERVICES Garbage: Solid waste collection is handled by private collectors. Brentwood residents can contact companies directly for information about rates and scheduling. A list of local providers can be found on the city’s website.

Brush collection: The city provides free monthly brush collection on residential streets. Brush must be behind the curb with cut ends toward the curb, must not exceed 8-feet in length. Limbs and stumps larger

than six inches in diameter will not be picked up. No debris from commercial cutting/trimming will be accepted. Leaves and grass clippings must be in brown paper bags.

Crime prevention and public safety: The Brentwood Police Department, led by Chief Jeff Hughes and Assistant Chief Tommy Walsh, is internationally accredited. In addition to its law enforcement and investigative responsibilities, the department’s Crime Prevention Division teaches D.A.R.E (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) classes in all 12 area Brentwood public and private schools; assists citizens with starting and maintaining Neighborhood Watch Programs; conducts business and residential security surveys; leads R.A.D (Rape Aggression Defense) and radKIDS classes for women and children, and conducts the Citizen Police Academy.

Fire and rescue: The internationally accredited Brentwood Fire & Rescue Department employs more than 65 personnel, led by Chief Brian Goss and Asst. Chief David Windrow. Its four stations, staffed 24/7, are geographically located to service the entire city. In addition to fire and emergency management, department services include vehicle extrication, EMS response, Haz-mat response, search and rescue, station tours, public education classes, home inspections and the Citizen’s Fire Academy.

Public Works: The city’s Public Works Department provides brush removal, pothole, curb and gutter repairs, pavement markings,

right-of-way mowing, small drainage repairs and snow and ice removal among other services on a year-round basis. It conducts an annual streets inspection for resurfacing needs.

During the last three Saturdays in April and October of each year, the department places dumpsters in city parks for citizens to drop off large, unwanted items for free.

Brentwood Library: Every Brentwood resident or property-owner has free borrowing privileges at the city’s nationally recognized John P. Holt Brentwood Library, which also serves as a de facto community center. A library card gives residents access to more than 165,000 books and other materials, including audiobooks, DVDs, music CDs and online resources, as well as newspapers and magazines. The Library also offers study rooms, a mid-size conference room, and computers with free Wi-Fi. Two large meeting rooms can be rented by Brentwood clubs, businesses and citizens. Classes ranging from exercise to personal finance are routinely scheduled. The children’s library features a packed programming schedule and hosts a summer reading program with related events.

Trails and greenways: East of I-65, the city has miles of paved multi-purpose trails that connect many of the city’s parks, schools and amenities, including Crockett Park, Tower Park, Smith Park, Primm Park, the Brentwood YMCA, the John P. Holt Brentwood Library, the FiftyForward Martin Center and the county’s Indoor Sports Complex and Joe Reagan GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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Guidance You Can Count On!

Amy B. Wyatt

Agent|Realtor, CRS, CLHMS, E-PRO 615.300.1041 amy@amywyatt.com Amy B. Wyatt is a real estate licensee affiliated with Compass RE, a licensed real estate broker and abides by equal housing opportunity laws. To reach the Compass RE office, call 615-475-5616.

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Soccer Complex. West of I-65, multi-purpose trails can be found in Granny White Park, Powell Park, Wikle Park, Deerwood Arboretum, and Maryland Way Park. A new trail along Maryland Farms business park’s southern border that connects Powell Park to Hill Center Brentwood is in the works.

Brentwood has an extensive park and greenway system.

City Parks: The city’s 14 parks and greenways comprise almost 1,000 acres of property dedicated to social, cultural, historic, athletic and nature-oriented activities for all ages. The 164-acre Crockett Park is home to the city’s free Summer Concert Series, a community playground, baseball, softball, football and soccer fields, tennis courts, a Frisbee golf course and Williamson County’s Joe Reagan Indoor Soccer Complex. The 400-acre Marcella Vivrette Smith Park, 1825 Wilson Pike, opened in 2014 and is home to historic Ravenswood Mansion and six miles of rugged hiking. Brentwood Bark Park, the city’s dog park, is located in Tower Park, just east of I-65 near the historic WSM radio tower. Nearby, the Williamson County Indoor Sports Complex has indoor swimming pools, indoor tennis courts, a fitness center and group fitness classes. A city-county partnership will see a $1.5 million splash pad, four pickle ball courts and other upgrades at the complex this year. www. brentwoodtn.gov/departments/parks-recreation; www.wcparksandrec.com

CO MMUN I T Y E V E N T S

STEVE HARMAN

• Summer Concert Series at Crockett Park • Breakfast with Santa, Easter Egg Hunt and Arbor Day Celebration at the John P. Holt Brentwood Library • Brentwood Rotary Club’s annual Pancake Breakfast • Annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Maryland Farms • 2019 Golden Anniversary events: A BrentFest in Crockett Park (June 15), and Rendezvous at Ravenswood Mansion (Oct. 10).

TO P 5 EMPLOYE RS • HCA • United Health Group • COMDATA • Tractor Supply Co. • Brookdale Senior Living

Education: Williamson County Schools provides public K-12 education at multiple Brentwood campuses: Brentwood and Ravenwood high schools; Brentwood, Woodland and Sunset middle schools, and Scales, Lipscomb, Edmondson, Jordan, Kenrose, Crockett and Sunset elementary schools.

Private Brentwood Academy serves students in grades 6-12. www.wcs.edu

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Fairview, in northwest Williamson County, is largely rural with wide open spaces.

STEVE HARMAN

A 722-acre park

“METRO FAIRVIEW” HAS ALL THE BASICS, PLUS THE COUNTY’S BIGGEST PARK

BY SUSAN LEATH ER S

D

ebby Rainey has called Metro Fairview home for more than 40 years.

Never heard of “Metro Fairview”?

Then you obviously don’t know Debby, a firstterm City of Fairview commissioner.

“When they started calling Nashville ‘Metro Nashville,’ I decided Fairview should be a ‘Metro’ too,” Rainey says, and the moniker stuck. At least for her.

Anyone driving through the city of 8,700 residents would hardly call it metropolitan.

There’s no historic “downtown.” Instead the commercial district is spread along an eightmile-or-so section of Hwy. 100 with a healthy mix of well-worn businesses and strip malls sprinkled between a growing mix of new fastfood chains, shopping centers and municipal buildings.

City Hall, built in 2001, stands near the entrance to the city’s crown jewel.

Dr. Evangeline Bowie deeded 722 acres of restored and re-imagined forests and lakes to Fairview prior to her 1992 death. Bowie Nature Park today is a hub of activity year-round.

In 2008, the city secured the park’s future for generations to come when it was placed in conservation easement protected by the Land Trust for Tennessee. The park has a staffed nature center and 17 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Three lakes offer fishing opportunities.

Kids love the Treehouse Playground, built by community volunteers in 1998.

Camp Bowie 2019, a summer day camp experience for kids ages 5 to 12, kicks off on June 10. For everyone else – plus children, of course – the park hosts a year-round schedule of events, from star-gazing parties and owl prowls to concerts and ecological programming.

Nearby, Camp Marymount has seen thousands of children participate in its residential summer camp programs since it opened in 1939. The camp also serves as a popular retreat center and event venue.

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Planning update is due

Celebrating its 60th birthday this July, the city has embarked on a mission to update its landuse plan to one “that can carry the city for the next 20 years,” City Manager Scott Collins says. Collins arrived at city hall in August 2016 from Northport, Ala., a suburb of Tuscaloosa with more than twice Fairview’s population.

Within 90 days, he began discussing the need to take a close look at Fairview’s future.

“The city was not in a very good place at the time,” Collins says, mentioning mismanagement of the Fairview Police Department and the lesser known and largely unspoken way it managed its growth through its policies and procedures.

Like other cities in ever-growing Middle Tennessee, people who live outside of Fairview produce both positive and negative impacts on the city itself.

“The current infrastructure is OK for growth inside the city. The larger concern is the growth taking place outside the city,” says Collins, citing Dickson County’s growing town of Burns, and Dickson and Hickman counties in general.

“Much of that traffic flows through Fairview on a daily basis. We know that 75 percent of retail sales within the city are made by people who don’t live in Fairview. Commuters are what is sustaining our local economy. But they also put a strain on our local infrastructure, primarily our thoroughfares.”

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In order to maintain a better balance of growth and to grow local property taxes, Collins says the city must have residential growth.

“We can’t survive without it.”

Which brings the city to a conundrum.

“We have traffic because everyplace has grown, yet Fairview is the slowest-growing economy in Williamson County over the past 10 years.”

To that end, the Board of Commissioners is focused on approving a new comprehensive land-use plan this spring. Once adopted, the Planning Commission will go to work rewriting the city’s subdivision regulations and developing a new design review manual to reflect the comprehensive plan, Collins explains.

All which is a positive, Rainey says.

“Growth is coming, and we’ve got to have the infrastructure and updated land-use policies in place to successfully deal with it.”

Far-flung but connected

Fairview has a growing allure for families who want Williamson County Schools yet more affordable housing than found elsewhere in the county. It’s a 35-minute drive to downtown Nashville and downtown Franklin, yet still feels rural. It’s accessible via I-40 and State Routes 100 and 96. Interstate 840, the southern loop around Nashville, offers easy access to I-65 to the east. Scenic Natchez Trace Parkway is nearby.

Fairview doesn’t have a movie theater, but it does now have Fairview Community Theater, established in 2016. Staging audiencefavorites like “Steel Magnolias,” Southern Fried Funeral” and “Leading Ladies,” the theater company has quickly ingrained itself to the larger community. Plays are staged in the 255-seat Fairview Performing Arts Center, which opened in 2015 at Fairview Middle School.

Like most small towns, local schools are “the heart of Fairview,” Rainey says. When the Fairview High Yellow Jackets play, no matter what sport, you’ll find a supportive crowd.

Dining options continue to expand, but if home-style cooking is on your mind, the Country Café on Hwy. 100 is the place to head.

“We say it’s like going to Great-Grandma’s house; it’s family. And the food’s good.”

But don’t look for things like matching coffee mugs. You’re as likely to have one advertising a local business or featuring a butterfly as not. Become a regular and the friendly staff may let you order specialties not on the menu – like chocolate gravy on Saturdays. Need a homemade pie but no time to bake? Pick one up here for $6.

Just down Hwy. 100 headed south, Fairview Fresh Deli Donuts, an old-school donut shop, is within eyeshot of the newer Dunkin Donuts.

The latter may have hand-crafted espresso drinks, but the former has apple fritters to die

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Bowie Park nature center plays host to educational programs and even social events (left).

Fairview has friendly “mom and pop” restaurants, as well as well-known chains (top right).

Home prices in Fairview offer more house, and often more land, for the money (middle right).

Growth in Fairview and surrounding communities has attracted Publix and Walmart Supercenter stores to town. (bottom right).

STEVE HARMAN

for and chocolate old-fashioned cake donuts.

You choose. Better yet, go to both.

Today Fairview has three grocery stores – Publix, Wal-Mart and Food Saver (what Rainey refers to as “the little store.”) And gas is significantly cheaper here than in Franklin, Brentwood and other points in the county.

Friends and neighbors

Though the city is in Williamson County, residents – especially those who work in Franklin or Brentwood -- often head to Dickson, Bellevue and Metro Nashville for additional shopping, services and entertainment.

“I think Fairview is such a bedroom community that once they leave work in (Historic) Franklin on Friday, they don’t want to go back,” says Rainey of her Metro Fairview friends and neighbors. “The best thing about Fairview is the people. If someone needs something, it always gets done.

“Everybody who moves here moves here for that reason. Despite growth, we still have the same culture.”

That culture – and the city’s 60th birthday – will be celebrated July 3 at Fairview’s annual Fourth of July celebration. Specific details are yet to come but plan to celebrate at City Hall where food trucks, music and kids’ activities topped off with fireworks will toast the country’s founding and the city’s future.

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Fairview City Hall is next to the town’s beloved Bowie Park, on Fairview Boulevard (left).

Bowie Park nature center plays host to educational programs and even social events (right).

STEVE HARMAN

D EPAR TM E N T S AN D SERV I C E S Education: Williamson County Schools provides public K-12 education at multiple Fairview campuses: Fairview High School, Fairview Middle School and Fairview and Westwood elementary schools. www.wcs.edu; (615) 472-4000.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

FA I RV I E W HIST ORY

The City of Fairview is officially just 60 years old, but its history started long before.

The area was first inhabited by Native Americans who traveled the ancient Natchez Trace trail which runs just a few miles from city’s heart. Due to the remote nature of western Williamson County, early residents were independent and self-reliant as compared to Franklin and communities to the east. The opening of Hwys. 100, 46 and 96 West and Interstate 40 all led to the area’s steady growth.

Farming, timber and, during Prohibition, moonshine, were important to the local economy. Tomatoes, in particular, were a good cash crop for many given Fairview’s soil.

The area went by several names but in 1880, the Christina post office was renamed Jingo. Jingo became Fairview in 1937. The city incorporated in 1959.

A 2015 special census reported Fairview’s population at close to 10,000.

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G O V ER N MEN T

The city operates under a City ManagerCommission form of government, comprised of an elected mayor and four commissioners elected at-large with staggered, four-year terms of office. The Board approves the annual municipal budget and decides on taxing and fee levels to fund municipal services. John W. Blade was elected Mayor in Nov. 6, 2018. The board meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Thursdays at City Hall, 7100 City Center Way. City Manager Scott Collins oversees the city’s professional departments.

Fairview is in Williamson County’s District 1 and is represented by County Commissioners Dwight Jones and Ricky D. Jones.

The city is in State Legislative District 65, State Senate District 23 and U.S. Congressional District 7. For more information: www. fairview-tn.org; 615-799-2484. www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/

Public safety and crime prevention: The Fairview Police Department serves within the city limits and is charged with crime prevention and law enforcement. Services include a drug enforcement department, Drug Take Back program, and coordination with the Williamson County Crime Stoppers program. www.fairviewtn.org/depts-services/police-department/; (615) 799-2435.

Fire Department: The Fairview Fire Department, located at 7131 Bowie Lake Road, has 14 professional firefighters providing 24/7 coverage of the city. www.fairview-tn.org/deptsservices/fire-department; (615) 799-3473.

Parks & Recreation: The 700-acre Bowie Nature Park is the city’s crown jewel and home to walking, biking and horseback riding trails, lakes, picnic shelters, a nature center and a large community-built playground. It hosts summer camps and nature programming. www. bowiepark.org; (615) 799-5544. Veterans Memorial Park, with trails and picnic areas, hosts the annual Fish Rodeo, www.fairview-tn.org/ depts-services/parks-department ; (615) 7995544. The county-owned Fairview Recreation Center features a gym, outdoor pool, fitness center, classes, senior activities and more. www. wcparksandrec.com; (615) 799-9331.

Leaf removal and chipper service: Public Works’ street department provides residential leaf pickup and chipping services operating under a zone system with routes on the first four Tuesdays of the month. Leaf service runs December-March; chipper service AprilNovember. Guidelines at www.fairview-tn.org/ depts-services/public-works/; (615) 387-6084.

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BRENTWOO D INTERIORS

CITY O F FAIRV IE W 7100 City Center Way, Fairview, TN 37062 (615) 799-2484; www.fairview-tn.org

Library: The Fairview Library, 2240 Fairview Blvd., is a branch of the Williamson County Public Library. It provides a host of traditional and non-traditional services, including children’s programming, free wireless Internet and community events. Lib.williamson-tn.org/Fairview_ public_library; (615) 224-6087.

Health services: The Fairview Clinic of the Williamson County Health Department, 2629 Fairview Blvd., provides a variety of health and wellness services. It accepts TNCare insurance and has a private pay sliding scale based on family size and income.

Economic Development: The Fairview Chamber of Commerce is an independent business and economic development organization. www. fairviewchamber.org; (615) 799-9290.

C OMMU NITY EVENTS

• Third of July Independence Day celebration: Held in front of City Hall, 7100 City Center Way. Features kids zone, food, live music and fireworks.

• Nature Fest: Annual early September festival in Bowie Park features activities for all ages, sponsored by Fairview Chamber of Commerce.

• Fairview Christmas Parade: This early December tradition features floats, marching bands and community groups and, of course, Santa.

T OP EMP LOYER S

• Williamson County Schools • Publix • Wal-Mart

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A DUAL IDENTITY BLENDS HISTORY AND OPPORTUNITY AS FRANKLIN THRIVES

BY SUSAN LEATH ER S

H

istoric Franklin has achieved what many small towns across the South only aspire to.

The city’s original commercial and residential district, first platted in 1800, has survived war, segregation, urban renewal and economic ups and downs, and is perhaps more popular and beloved than ever. It’s charming. It’s walkable.

And there’s nary an empty storefront to be found.

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The bright art-deco marquee of the c. 1937 Franklin Theater makes a statement on Main Street. Reopened in 2011 after an $8 million restoration, the 300-seat theater is now one of Middle Tennessee’s favorite venues for an intimate concert experience. It also stages community theater productions, hosts community benefits and, yes, even shows a few movies each week.

Historic Franklin’s annual street festivals attract hundreds of thousands of people each year. And yet, it’s hard to fathom this small downtown – with many homes and buildings that date back to the 1800s and early 1900s -is the heart of a city that today almost 72,000 residents call home.

Yet this doesn’t mean downtown Franklin is stuck in the past. Harpeth Square, a $105 million mixed-use project still under construction, is transforming an entire block of downtown Franklin’s northern gateway. Few, though, would have described the largely empty lot it’s replacing as either historic nor charming. And it will bring a much-needed hotel to downtown.

When completed later this year, Harpeth Square will also have 150 apartments and just under 19,000 square feet of retail and office space.

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The Heritage Foundation is working to redevelop the campus of O’More College, which has moved to Belmont University in Nashville, into gardens, an entrepreneur center, and events venues (left).

ANDREW COLLIGNON

Harpeth Square spans almost an entire city block with a Hilton Curio Hotel, apartments, and commercial space (right).

CHRISTIE PASSARELLO

Cool Springs brings office towers, retail

Just a few miles to the northeast, Cool Springs is as far from historic as you can get. Though a small sliver at its northern border is in neighboring Brentwood, most of this modern commercial and residential area is firmly in Franklin.

One of the last farms standing along the Mallory Lane corridor just west of I-65 has given way to Mallory Green, a new mixed-use development going up between Cool Springs Boulevard and McEwen Boulevard.

Directly east and across the Interstate, Nissan North America’s striking, 10-story headquarters stood alone when it opened in 2008. Today the carmaker’s corporate campus is surrounded by high-rise, mixed-use and residential developments in various stages of completion. And a new plan was recently announced for redevelopment around one of the first office complexes in Cool Springs east, built in 1994 for Ford Motor Credit. The East Works District plan envisions replacing 2,000 surface parking spaces around the Carothers Building with retail, residential, office space, hotels and green space.

Old Franklin goes back more than two centuries, to its founding in 1799 as the county seat and its growth as the center of a prosperous farming community dotted with plantations.

Its story includes the bloody Battle of Franklin, the ravages of the Civil War and the years of reconstruction and recovery that followed.

New Franklin now stretches south along both sides of the I-65 corridor from Moore’s Lane, past the McEwen Drive and Hwy. 96 interchanges and on south to the quickly populating Berry Farms area.

The dichotomy of the two Franklins can’t be denied.

Transformative nonprofit pushes forward

In late February, the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County – the key player in Historic Franklin’s transformation from tired small town to historic tourism hotspot – announced it had raised $6 million in six months and purchased the former O’More College of Design campus, located just three blocks east of Historic Franklin’s Main Street.

In a nod to the past, the foundation plans to restore the property’s historic integrity over the next 18- to 24 months. The campus came with two historic homes, the c. 1866 Abbey Leix mansion and the c. 1887 Fleming-Farrah Hall.

Heritage Foundation Executive Director Bari Beasley admits the plans – which include removing modern structures, restoring existing and creating new gardens, adding a 300seat conservatory and more – are ambitious and come with a hefty, $14 million price tag.

“This is a really complex project,” she says, and one that will involve and include many stakeholders, including the City of Franklin.

The foundation’s director of preservation, Dr. Blake Wintory, is already hard at work researching the historic homes’ and gardens’ original plans, Beasley says.

The ultimate vision is to create an “estate and gardens” where the public can experience historic preservation, participate in preservation education classes and camps, and enjoy the arts.

In a nod to the future, the campus was renamed Franklin Grove, and will be home to The Idea Center, the county’s first incubation space dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship. Williamson, Inc., the county’s chamber of commerce and economic development arm, hopes to open The Idea House in Fleming-Farrah Hall this October, leasing the space from the foundation.

The Romanesque Revival style home was remodeled by O’More’s interior design department in 2014. Still there is work to be done to turn the hall, used by the college for classroom and studio space, into The Idea Center. The chamber has already received GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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a TN Placemakers Entrepreneurship Fund grant from the state and is researching other grant and funding opportunities to take care of the interior renovations.

Several parameters will be used to select the entrepreneurs who can work out of the center for up to three years. The most important will be an enterprise’s scalability and ability to grow out of the space in a short amount of time, according to Elizabeth McCreary, the chamber’s chief economic development officer.

Small businesses are a key

Entrepreneurs and small business owners are key to the county’s economy. Of the 6,821 Williamson County Businesses, 3,551 (or 52%) of them have one to four employees. In fact, despite all of the shiny, high-rise office buildings in Cool Springs, only 200 businesses in Williamson County have 100 or more employees, according to Williamson, Inc. data.

Though it may sometimes seem as though there’s a disconnect between old and new Franklin, the Heritage Foundation and Williamson, Inc. agree that historic preservation is a valuable commodity that drives economic vitality.

“I have really appreciated how Williamson, Inc. has included the Heritage Foundation in its

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recruitment process,” when enticing new companies to relocate in Franklin and Williamson County, says Beasley, who also serves on the Williamson, Inc. board. “They always include visits to downtown Franklin. We love that.

“We are one of the pieces of the puzzle that helps drive people to Williamson County.”

The Franklin Farmers Market shed is behind The Factory at Franklin and is open during harvest season.

STEVE HARMAN

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Downtown Franklin has been an historic preservation success story, and most of the time is teeming with shoppers and diners including locals and visitors.

VISIT FRANKLIN

tion of Williamson the city began to embrace its past in the late 1960s. Since then, historic tourism has grown to be an economic force.

The Cool Springs area began to develop in the late 1980s. CoolSprings Galleria opened in 1991. Since then, commercial, residential and corporate development has continued nonstop. The area is now home to several national headquarters, including Nissan North America and Schneider Electric.

Just over 1,500 people lived here in 1870 and the population remained under 10,000 through 1970. It more than doubled between 1990 and 2000, from 20,098 to 41,842. Approximately 78,000 people now call Franklin home and the U.S. Census has ranked Franklin as one of the fastest growing U.S. cities.

G O V ER N M E N T

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

FRANKLIN HIST ORY

The city was founded Oct. 26, 1799 by Abram Maury Jr. who named it after Benjamin Franklin, a close friend of Dr. Hugh Williamson, a Continental Congress member and Williamson County’s namesake. It is the county seat.

Prior to the Civil War, Williamson County was one of the state’s wealthiest counties

The Civil War devastated the city’s mostly agrarian economy. The Nov. 30, 1864 Battle of Franklin, one of the war’s bloodiest, saw 8,000 casualties and the deaths of five Confederate generals. Several of the homes and buildings used as hospitals still stand.

With the advent of historic preservation and establishment of the Heritage Founda-

The Franklin Board of Mayor and Aldermen, comprised of an elected mayor, four aldermen elected to represent the city’s four political wards and four elected at large, governs the city. Aldermen serve staggered four-year terms, with the mayor and at-large aldermen elected together and ward aldermen elected two years later. The next municipal election is Oct. 22, 2019 to select the mayor and four at-large aldermen. The board meets at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the City Hall board room, 109 3rd Avenue S., Franklin.

Franklin’s mayor is Dr. Ken Moore. City Manager Eric Stuckey oversees the city’s 14 professional departments.

Seven of Williamson County’s 12 voting districts -- Districts 2, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 -- touch the City of Franklin and each district is represented by two county commissioners. The city falls in State Legislative Districts 63 and 65, State Senate District 23, and U.S. Congressional District 7. To learn which city ward you live in, visit www.franklintn.gov/home. To learn what Williamson County voting district you live in, visit www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/40/Election-Commission or call (615) 790-5711.

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To learn more about Franklin visit F RA NK L IN H O MEPAGE.CO M

DE P A RT MENTS A ND SERV ICES Franklin Transit Authority: Provides ADAaccessible public transportation trolley service in and around Franklin and Cool Springs; Transit on DemanD (TODD) service; VanStar service which helps initiate vanpool service, and the Franklin Express, a coach bus service between Franklin and downtown Nashville through the Transportation Management Association (TMA). Free fixed rate route rides for veterans and active military personnel, discounts for seniors and the disabled. www. tmagroup/franklin-transit; (615) 628-0260.

Trash and recycling: The city’s Sanitation and Environmental Services Department provides residential trash pickup, ‘Bluebag’ curbside recycling, and yard and bulk waste within Franklin city limits. www.franklintn.gov/government; (615) 794-1516 Leaf pickup: Leaves are picked up every week between October and early January by the city’s Street Department on designated days by subdivision according to color-coded zones. (615-791-3254). Compost is also available to purchase from the department at 24

the compost facility, 1116 Incinerator Road.

Vouchers must be purchased in advance at the Utility Billing Office, 109 3rd Ave. S. www. franlintn.gov/government; (615) 794-4572 Crime prevention and public safety: The Franklin Police Department provides public safety services within the city limits, while the Williamson County Sheriff’s Department does the same for nearby unincorporated areas.

The FPD also oversees the city’s Neighborhood Watch Programs, Citizens’ Police Academy, Franklin Police Explores and offers Rape Aggression Defense (RAD) training for women among other community services. www. franklintn.gov/government; (615) 794-2513.

Fire and rescue: The Franklin Police Department has eight strategically located stations which cover the city when fire or other emergencies occur. Community Programs include car seat checks, Citizens’ Fire Academy, CPR classes, fire prevention programs and a speaker’s bureau. www.franklintn.gov/government; (615) 791-3270.

Parks & Recreation: Franklin has more than 700 acres of park land divided into 16 parks including passive, active and historical parks, each with its own character and amenities.

Walking and fitness trails, playgrounds, picnic tables and shelter areas, sports fields, skateboarding, disc golf, tennis, and basketball courts are available. City parks are open daily dawn to dusk. The city maintains several access points for those who enjoy canoeing/ kayaking, fishing or swimming on the Harpeth River. The city is also home to several Williamson County Parks & Recreation Department recreation centers, sports complexes and programs. www.franklintn.gov/government; (615) 794-2103; www.wcparksandrec.com.

Library: The main Williamson County Public Library, 1314 Columbia Ave., offers a host of traditional and non-traditional library services including books, reading programs, exercise and wellness programs, art and literary events, book clubs and computer classes for all ages. www.lib.williamson-tn.org; (615) 595-1245.

Newcomer’s Information: The city website provides a one-stop link to information new city residents may need. Visit www.franklintn. gov/our-city/information-for-new-residents.

The Franklin Visitor Center, which provides a wealth of information for residents and visitors alike, is located at 400 Main St., Suite 130; www.visitfranklin.com; (615) 591-8514.

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Buying or Selling your home?

New to Nashville?

CITY O F FRA N K L IN 109 3rd Avenue South Franklin, TN 37064 615-791-3217 www.franklintn.gov

Gateway Village is located at Franklin’s northern city limits, adjacent to Brentwood. It offers apartments, condominiums, restaurants, offices, retail and even a pre-school (left).

Berry Farms, like Gateway Village, is at the edge of Franklin, but at the southern end, offering mixed use housing, restaurants, offices and retail (right).

STEVE HARMAN

Downtown Parking: On-street parking in downtown Franklin is limited to 2 hours from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, excluding city recognized holidays.

Two free parking garages, one on 2nd Avenue, one on Fourth Avenue, offer unlimited free parking.

There are also several privately owned paid lots. www.franklintn.gov/our-city/parking-in-franklin; (615)-791-3217.

Education: The Franklin Special School District (FSSD) serves children in grades pre-K-8 that live within the public school district’s boundary, which covers much, but not all, of the City of Franklin. Williamson County Schools provides public pre-K-12 education. WCS high schools serving Franklin are Centennial, Franklin, Independence, Page and Renaissance.

Franklin is home to several private schools, including Battle Ground Academy (K-12 at two campuses), New Hope Academy (PreK-6); Franklin Classical School (K-12). Columbia State Community College has a Franklin campus and Belmont and Lipscomb universities both have a Franklin presence. www.fssd. org, (615) 794-6624; www.wcs.edu, (615)-472-4000.

Call Shelly today for all your real estate needs.

CO MMUN I TY EVEN TS

• Main Street Festival: Largest of several annual street fairs produced by the city and the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. Fourth full weekend in April. Arts & crafts vendors, live entertainment, kids’ zone, food vendors and more.

• Wine Down Main Street: Wine-tasting event in downtown Franklin benefits the Boys & Girls Club of Franklin/Williamson County.

• Taste of Williamson: Held after hours at CoolSprings Galleria each March, guests can sample cuisine by many of the county’s top restaurants and caterers, as well as wine and other beverages. Benefits United Way of Williamson County.

• Parades: Main Street in downtown Franklin features three large public parades each year: Franklin Rodeo Parade (May 11, 2019); Veterans Day Parade (November); Franklin Christmas Parade (Dec. 7, 2019).

• Franklin Classic: The city is home to several popular road races, but the Franklin Classic, held each Labor Day (Sept. 2, 2019), attracts a crowd to downtown with a 10K run, 5K run/walk and 1K Kids Fun Run. Live music, kids zone, food vendors and more. Benefits Mercy Community Healthcare.

SHELLY

LEONHARD

CRS, LRS, CLHMS CELL

615-812-1585 OFFICE

615-771-6620 FAX

615-739-9604 EMAIL

Sleonhard4 @gmail.com

TO P FI V E EMPL O Y ER S • Williamson County Schools • Community Health Systems • Nissan North America • Williamson Medical Center • Mars Petcare

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TRADITIONAL

FLAVORS

VINTAGE

SPIRITS A DAY TRIP TO FRANKLIN

W

SOULFUL

SOUNDS

332 MAIN ST. PH. 615. 435.3603

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illiamson County is made up of rolling hills, lazy rivers, and is divided down the middle by Highway 31, the gateway to most major cities in the county.

Highway 31 runs parallel to the faster route, Interstate 65.

The highway may be the gateway, but the thriving retail, restaurant and corporate business community is the heartbeat. Franklin, the seat of county government, is host to one of America’s most beautiful Main Streets. A creative artistic culture can be felt throughout the town whether you are shopping for art at Gallery 202 or antique shopping at Winchester Antique Mall.

The 20-year revitalization of beautiful Main Street has seen the growth of its business acumen in restaurant fare. Tourists and residents alike can find the finest in biscuits, steak, wine, grits, catfish and seafood. And the craze of creative cocktails buzzes in every restaurant.

If you start at Five Points at Fifth Avenue and Main, you can grab a tea or coffee at the hippest coffee house in town, Frothy Monkey. Consider trying the architect omelet or the grilled cheese breakfast sandwich. This funky but beautiful restaurant is host to many creatives in the area.

If you are more into country breakfasts, or just like variety, one block down on Fourth Avenue is Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant. Puckett’s can have a line out the door on weekends but it moves fast and it’s worth the wait. Try their country breakfast and if you like your bacon crispy – just say so! Puckett’s is open for lunch and dinner too. If you head there for dinner, check out the live music events.

New York Times bestselling author Robert Hicks, who lives just down the road in Leiper’s Fork, helped put one of Franklin’s most beautiful treasures on the map. Carnton Plantation was the setting for his book Widow of the South. After breakfast, head on over to Carnton and take a tour of the historic home and stroll through the beautiful formal gardens. If you have a bit more time, walk the trails at the Eastern Flank Battlefield Park, a 30-acre preserve with ADA compliant trails.

Beyond battle sites and historic homes, shopping might be your preferred way to spend your day.

Franklin has that in spades and will thrill any shopper who likes unique clothing and gifts. Right next to Puckett’s, you can start your shopping expedition at Gin-O Boutique where you can find the cutest selection of dresses that can go from work to night out.

Around the corner at Finnley’s Good Findings, there are some eclectic, contemporary chic items that will brighten your wardrobe. Check out their jewelry and accessory selection and their mannequins out front are always sporting something edgy enough to catch your eye. From boots to gifts, Finnley’s is always good for finding something fun. (pun intended) It’s about lunch time (or dinner if you are from the deep South), and you might want to head over to 55 South. Consider trying the red beans and rice with the catfish on top, the jambalaya or the gumbo. Their souvenir t-shirts are pretty fun with a take on “day drinking.”

After lunch, step down the block to Tin Cottage where the owners believe in supporting their local creative community. They carry a variety of locally

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Mouthwatering

burgers

made gifts whether for the tourist or the local. The Tennessee-themed items are unique and you can grab a copy of Franklin’s latest coffee table book, Franklin’s History by city Alderman Brandy Blanton.

Also don’t overlook their variety of stationary, tea towels, mugs, soaps, books, food items, t-shirts, glassware and accessories. Browse the bath bomb bar because you might need a soak after all this shopping, eating and drinking.

Across the street, stop by and say howdy at White’s Mercantile. The shop has that general store feel, but owner and singer/songwriter Holly Williams has curated the inventory with all of her favorites for the modern-day tastemaker. There is so much to see, you will want to take your time and check out the Franklin-centric items. The maps of the area are a great keepsake or gift for those who love Franklin.

If you want some high-end seasonal grub for dinner, craft cocktails and some live music, Gray’s on Main might be more your style. Arrive before your reservation and have a cocktail at the bar upstairs.

The mixologists are fun to watch and they make some mean drinks out of their signature brandy. Order shareables while you experiment with the cocktails. The fried pimiento cheese balls and baconwrapped figs are to die for.

Once seated, take a look at the Burrata and Honey Roasted Delicata Squash – unbelievable. Know that the menu is seasonal and fresh, but one amazing signature dish on the menu is the Heritage Fried Chicken. But for those you love gumbo – check out the Shrimp, Scallop and Crab Gumbo over Smoked Gouda Grits.

If you are looking for a burger and you are into bourbon, right next door at O Be Joyful you will be in heaven. With a selection of over 200 bourbons, you can try a few while you eat one of the best burgers in town.

Extensive Bourbon Selection late night Trees and trimming dress Main Street Franklin for the holidays (left).

DEBBIE SMARTT

hours

Carnton Plantation and the Eastern Flank Battlefield Park offer peace and beauty (above).

BATTLE OF FRANKLIN TRUST

Gray’s on Main used to be a pharmacy, but now mixologists concoct creative cocktails for customers (above left).

O Be Joyful serves tempting and creative burgers, as well as, your choice of more than 200 bourbons.

COURTESY OF O BE JOYFUL

O' Be Joyful 328 Main Street in Franklin GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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Nolensville has been growing quickly since the town got sewer service and incorporated in 1996.

The town dates back to 1797.

STEVE HARMAN

COUNTY COMMISSIONER, JOURNALIST PRESENT NOLENSVILLE’S PAST IN PICTURES

BY SUSAN LEATH ER S

I

n a town like Nolensville, where the population has grown threefold since the turn of the 21st century, helping history come alive to those with no institutional knowledge of the place they now call home can help build community.

Historic preservation also grows in importance when so much of what built the town -- farms and agricultural-based enterprises – is quickly disappearing.

A new book, Images of America: Nolensville, does just that.

After two years of painstaking research, interviews and hunting down more than

28

900 photographs, authors Beth Lothers and Vicky Travis are excited to spread the word that a project first considered five years ago, has finally made its way to local stores and online retailers.

The 127-page, soft-cover book is one of Arcadia Publishing’s popular Images of America series. The series celebrates the history of neighborhoods, towns and cities across the country through vintage photographs and explanatory words.

When the authors started the project, “we had like 20 pictures in our possession,” says Travis, a journalist who has called Nolensville

home for close to 25 years. “We knew the book would contain a minimum of 180 photos and thought we’d never be able to find that many.

“It was like following the bread crumbs,” she says of finding photos that illustrated stories they wanted to include and the right people who could share context about specific photos they collected.

Lothers recalls a breakthrough moment at the Nolensville Library when they were researching the 1966 integration of local schools.

“We really wanted to speak with someone who was there that day, and in walks Jackie Green,” Lothers says.

Green, it turned out, was a Nolensville School third grader in 1966. Her personal experience and perspective provided answers to the authors’ questions.

They collected, borrowed and scanned over 900 images representing Nolensville’s modern history, which dates back to 1797 when town namesake William Nolen experienced a broken wagon wheel near Mill Creek.

Quickly taken with the area, Nolen ultimately decided to claim 120 nearby acres of a Revolutionary War land grant.

The book includes historic maps and drawings to illustrate stories before photography became commonplace in the late-1800s.

“The hardest part was deciding what photos stayed and what didn’t,” Travis says. In the end, 240 photos made the cut. The sixchapter book begins with “Settler Stories” which introduce the town’s earliest residents and ends with “Coming Together,’ about its churches, parks and schools.

Another difficult decision was deciding what photo would be featured on the sepiatoned cover. In the end, an image of former Nolensville Co-operative Creamery and the local farmers who owned it was selected.

Travis hopes readers will find the photobased history accessible, entertaining and educational. Lothers says the experience has made her appreciate the past every day.

“I don’t turn on a faucet without thinking of the early artesian wells. I don’t grumble as much about a pothole, thinking of the rough, holed earth that was called a road with a toll gate. I don’t worry as much about school rezoning, when I recall the one-room classrooms that burned and the tent students met under while the locals assembled a school.

“History provides perspective.”

Images of America: Nolensville (Arcadia Publishing, March 11,2019, $21.99) is available at local stores and from online booksellers.

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Six of the authors' favorite stories from "Images of America: Nolensville" Asking Beth Lothers and Vicky Travis to pick their favorite stories discovered when researching Images of America: Nolensville was like asking a parent to pick his or her favorite child.

But in the end, each came up with three.

Here they are: The Butter Story (page 40): In 1921, local dairy farmers formed the Nolensville Co-Operative Creamery. Its slogan was “Better Cream made into better butter.” It operated until 1957.

“You don’t think about those folks as businessmen. They made this massive business that benefited hundreds of families,” Travis said.

An accomplished woman (pages 22-23): If educator Elmer Sherwood Jenkins – greatgreat-grandson of settler Green Jenkins -had not traveled to Mississippi in the early 1900s, he would not have met and married Minnie Alice Mauldin, a gentlewoman and accomplished artist. “(She) left family and all that she knew for a rustic Nolensville that must have felt like the wild frontier,” Lothers says. “She brought her genteel roots, grace and painting, and was part of the fabric of what Nolensville would become.”

Meet the real Sam Donald (page 33-34): Countless vehicles have traveled Sam Donald Road but few know the story behind its namesake. Maj. Donald was one of the longest-held POWs in World War II. An Army chaplain, he survived the 125-mile Bataan Death March.

He conducted more than 2,700 services for Americans who died by starvation or bayonet while imprisoned.

“So many times he should have died -- but he didn’t,” Travis says. After the war, he and his wife bought a farm in Nolensville and became active members of the community. “He took tragedy and moved on from it.”

Nothing civil about war here (pages 2629): Nolensville was not a Civil War battle site but the war left many scars and stories of survival on and among its residents.

“Everyone suffered,” Lothers says. “The differences that separated sides, by ideology or skin color, came down to being similar in the quest to survive. Those at the end of war,

Beth Lothers and Vicyy Travis collected more than 900 vintage photos of Nolensville.

COURTESY OF KENT TRAVIS

from both sides, who turned their suffering into empathy for, and service unto, others, were the most inspiring of all.”

Integration done right (page 126): In March 1967, about 50 Nolensville school children were invited to meet President Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson at the dedication of Columbia State Community College to celebrate the town’s smooth integration of its schools. The school was rewarded with a new set of encyclopedias.

“Integration went smoother here than almost anywhere,” Travis says, explaining that being a small town, citizens young and old already worked and played together. Grandfathers of both black and white students gath-

ered at the school to make sure no one from outside the town disturbed the peace.

World War II close to home (page 31): From 1941 to 1944, some 850,000 soldiers practiced military maneuvers in Middle Tennessee.

Tanks traveled Nolensville Road before turning to practice military maneuvers in the woods between Kidd and Rocky Fork roads.

“I had always grown up thinking of WWII as something that happened far away,” says Lothers. “Thinking of Army tanks maneuvering in small-town Nolensville preparing for battle, or German POWs working local fields during the day before heading south to their prison camp, has made even that war more local and personal to me.”

Author ponders the history that surrounds us

one spared for shade and cover, for climbing, or for hiding, or to be used as a perch for the enjoyment of a distant view or for survival as a Native American scout or Confederate spy?

Does one look to the Native American trail that became a dusty stagecoach surface, then a toll road before becoming a paved highway?

There are bones in the ground, graves marked and unmarked, pioneer plots, slave graves, family cemeteries with rock walls and iron gates, and tombstones in cemeteries white and black. There are buried secrets and stories and dreams … how they came, why they stayed or left, or for some, why they returned.

Rare fading photographs hint at their substance and will to survive, organize, and create commerce while building places to gather for worship, education and recreation. Even the photographs of faces without names, tells part of the story, of a town. > Beth Lothers, Author, past Nolensville Mayor, current Williamson County Commissioner

While journaling through the process of compiling the stories and photos for Images of America: Nolensville, co-author Beth Lothers penned this entry: Where do you find the history of a town?

What shadows of the past can come into clear view? What structures still remain?

Does one look to the creek that still winds its way through the rocky, grassy banks, running high or low, a moving mirror for faces to peer into, feet to wade in, arms to splash in, fishing lines dropped to its depth while cows plod surefooted to cool in the heat of a day?

Does one look at the largest and oldest of trees, with roots spread wide and deep … the

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Nolensville still has a small-town heart, despite the rapid growth in recent years.

STEVE HARMAN

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

NOLENSVILLE HIST ORY

Nolensville’s story begins with a broken wheel.

Revolutionary war veteran William Nolen brought his family to the region in 1797 and settled here after his wagon broke a wheel and he decided to stay where it fell. He purchased part of a land grant and the town was later named after him. Many families followed and the town was first incorporated in 1839, though it later lost its charter after a solid local government failed to be established. The area remained largely agricultural in nature with local businesses, like the Nolensville Mill Company and the Nolensville Co-Op Creamery, created to support local farmers.

In the 1990s, the small community began to grow and in 1996 residents voted to reincorporate. From the late 1990s to present, it has seen phenomenal residential and com30

mercial growth as farms have given way to new subdivisions with homes purchased by those desiring a Williamson County address and Williamson County schools in an area, for now, more affordable than nearby Brentwood and Franklin. In 1990, just over 1,500 people lived in Nolensville. The estimated 2016 population was just over 7,500.

G O V ER N MEN T

Nolensville was chartered with a Board of Mayor and Alderman as its legislative and policy-making body. It has four at-large alderman elected in staggered terms and an elect-

ed mayor. The board meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at Nolensville Town Hall. The next municipal election will be held in November 2020.

Mayor Jimmy Alexander was re-elected in 2018. In 2015, Kenneth McLawhon became the town’s first Town Administrator, overseeing the town’s professional departments.

McLawhon recently has taken a similar position in Thompson’s Station.

Nolensville is located in Williamson County Government’s District 5 and represented by county commissioners Beth Lothers and Tommy Little. Its Williamson County School board representative is Gary Anderson. It is in State Legislative District 63, State Senate District 23, and U.S. Congressional District 7.

For more information: www.nolensvilletn. gov; www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov

D EPAR TM E N T S AN D SERV I C E S Trash pickup: The town does not provide trash pickup; residential service is contracted privately. The county-operated Nolensville Convenience Center, 1525 Owen Road, operates 7 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays, 7 a.m.-6 p.m. weekends except holidays. It accepts trash (daily limits) and recyclable materials. www. williamsoncounty-tn.gov; (615) 776-2717.

Public safety and crime prevention: The Nolensville Police Department operates 24/7 out of Nolensville Town Hall. www.nolensvilletn.gov/police; 615-776-3640.

Education: Williamson County Schools serving Nolensville students include Nolensville high school; Sunset and Nolensville middle schools, and Nolensville, Mill Creek, Sunset elementary schools. www.wcs.edu; (615) 472-4000.

To learn more about Nolensville visit NOLENSVILLEHOMEPAGE.COM

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COMMUNITY EVENTS

Fire Department: The Nolensville Volunteer Fire Department, 7347 Nolensville Road, is part of the Williamson County Office of Public Safety. An ordinance passed in 2004 requires all new construction, residential and commercial, in the town to have a sprinkler system.

The department provides medical response, haz-mat and rescue services. www.williamsonready.org; 615-776-5050.

TOWN OF NO L E N S V I L L E 7218 Nolensville Road Nolensville, TN 37135 (615) 776-3633 www.Nolensvilletn.gov

Library: The Nolensville branch of Williamson County Public Library, 915 Oldham Dr., offers traditional library services in addition to children’s programming, meeting room, computers, test proctoring, book clubs and more. wcpl.ss9.sharpschool.com; (615) 776-5490.

Parks & Recreation: The WCPR Recreation Complex at Nolensville, 7250 Nolensville Rd., has a wellness center, outdoor pool, arts & crafts rooms, game room, dance room and sitting service. www.wcparksandrec.com; (615) 786-0200. Nolensville Park and Bark Park has ball fields, a playground, dog park and walking trails. Soccer is played at Osborne Park Soccer Complex and the Nolensville Soccer Club’s Gregory Park Soccer Fields. The town has a growing multi-use trail system connecting commercial and residential areas.

Sports: Nolensville has youth sports leagues in addition to middle and high school sports programs. The non-profit Nolensville Running Club is one of the area’s most active and sponsors regular group runs several times a week. www.nolensvillerunningclub.com.

Business: The Nolensville Business Council is part of Williamson Inc., the county chamber of commerce. The council addresses the specific needs of northeast Williamson County’s business community and meets quarterly. www.williamsonchamber.com; (615) 771-1912.

• Buttercup Festival: Annual spring festival featuring over 100 artisan and food vendors, live music, the Miss Buttercup and Little Miss Buttercup pageants, kids zone and more in the historic district. April 13, 2019, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

• Antiques, Collectibles and Garden Show: Early spring event featuring on-site appraisals, food trucks, vendors and more. Historic Nolensville School, presented by Nolensville Historical Society. www.nolensvillehistoricalsociety.org; (615) 405-5451.

• Nolensville’s Star Spangled Celebration: Town’s annual Independence Day salute, always on Saturday before July 4. 6 p.m., June 29, 2019 at Nolensville Park. Fireworks, kids’ activities, more. www.nolensvilletn.gov; (615) 776-6696.

• Veterans Day Celebration: Annual celebration of area veterans kicks off with an invitation-only breakfast followed by a parade through town. November. www.nolensvilletn. gov; (615) 776-6696

TO P EMP LOYE RS

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Spring Hill’s first settlers arrived with land grants and until the Civil War, the community grew with farms and plantations and the local businesses and tradesmen to support them.

On Nov. 29, 1864, the Battle of Spring Hill was a prelude to the larger Battle of Franklin.

Following the war, the community rebounded, yet remained primarily centered on agriculture for more than a century. That changed in the 1980s, when General Motors announced Spring Hill would be home to its new Saturn manufacturing plant.

The town, which is split between Maury and Williamson counties, had 986 residents in 1980. By 2000, that number had grown to 7,115. Today more than 40,000 people call Spring Hill home.

GOVER N MEN T

A nine-member Board of Mayor and Aldermen is the policy-making body. It is comprised of eight at-large aldermen from four wards elected for fouryear staggered terms. The elected mayor serves a

four-year term. The board meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of every month in the courtroom at City Hall. The next municipal election is April 11, 2019.

The Williamson County side of the city is split between three county voting districts, 1, 2 and 3, with each district electing two county commissioners and one Williamson County School board representative. The city falls in State Legislative Districts 63 and 65, State Senate District 23, and U.S. Congressional District 7. For more information: www. springhilltn.org; www.maurycounty-tn.gov/; www. williamsoncounty-tn.gov/

D EPAR TMEN T S AN D SER V I C E S

Law enforcement and crime prevention: The Spring Hill Police Department, located in the lower level of City Hall, provides law enforcement and crime prevention and investigation services. It leads the Citizens’ Police Academy, and manages the local Nixle community alert system. www.springhilltn. org; (931) 486-2252.

To learn more about Spring Hill visit SPRINGHILLHOMEPAGE.COM

GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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CITY O F SPRIN G H IL L 199 Town Center Parkway Spring Hill, TN 37174 www.springhilltn.org (931) 486-2252

This water tank, next to Spring Hill City Hall, sits on a hill overlooking the General Motors manufacturing plant which turned the small town into a boomtown between 1990 and today (left).

Spring Hill residents have welcomed restaurant development, including Martin’s BBQ, which occupies a building along with 55 South and Salty Goat Taqueria (above).

STEVE HARMAN

Fire Department: The Spring Hill Fire Department has three fire stations and provides firefighting, fire prevention, medical and rescue services. Community programs include fire engine visits and station tours, fire extinguisher training, and free smoke detector battery checks and batter replacement. www.springhilltn.org; (931) 486-3270.

Library: The Spring Hill Public Library is an independent library system that serves as a community resource, gathering place and programming for all ages. For now, it is located at 144 Kedron Pky., but plans are in the works to move it to the Northfield Building near the GM campus. www.springhilltn.org; (931) 486-2932.

Parks & Recreation: A combination of city- and county-owned parks and recreation center provide abundant opportunities for residents. Port Royal Park, the city’s largest, has a splash pad, playground, fields, bike trail, pavilions, amphitheater and is ADA accessible. Evans Park has picnic pavilions, playground and multi-use athletic fields and dog park. Harvey Park has picnic pavilions, a playground and restrooms. The Walnut St. Skate Park welcomes skateboards, inline skates, BMX and freestyle bicycles and non-motorized scooters. www.springhilltn.org; (931) 487-0027.

The Longview Recreation Center, 2909 Commonwealth Dr., offers a full range of amenities including indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a gymnasium, wellness center, racquetball and tennis courts. www. wcparksandrec.com; (615) 302-0971.

Trash and recycling: The city contracts with Waste Management to provide weekly curbside trash pickup, with recyclables collected every other week.

Visit www.springhilltn.org/483/solid-waste-removal for details on pickup schedules and details.

CO MMUN I TY EV EN TS

• Annual Fourth of July Bicycle Parade: Children are encouraged to decorate their bikes, scooters and wagons in red, white and blue and then participate in the parade that begins at the Spring Hill Post Office and ends at Evans Park. www.springhilltn.org; (931) 487-0027.

• Impact Festival: Annual event on the grounds at Rippavilla Plantation, 5700 Main St., Aug. 10, 2019, Christian concert, kids zone, food and more. www.visitmaury.com.

• Spring Hill Christmas Parade: Presented by the Kiwanis Club, the annual holiday celebration is the second Saturday in December with pre-parade festivities around the Tennessee Children’s Home front lawn. www.springhilltn.org; (931) 487-0027.

GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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T H O M P S O N’S S TAT I O N H ISTO R Y

The first settlers in what is now Thompson’s Station arrived in the late 1700s. In 1800, there were only 24 local taxpayers, but by 1866, that number reached 200. The town was first known as White House. In 1836, it became Littlebury in 1836, reportedly named after then-postmaster Littleberry Starks. In 1856, after Dr. Elijah Thompson donated the land where the village was built, Thompson’s Station took root.

When trains rolled into Thompson’s Station in August 1855, the village grew as a shipping center.

Farmers from surrounding areas drove their hogs, sheep and cattle to be taken to market. The railroad remained a big part of the town’s life through the 1940s, when chemical companies relied on trains to transport the region’s phosphate rich soil to processing plants. However, as the highway system and trucking transport grew, rail traffic faded and the town’s depot was torn down in the 1950s. A new depot was constructed in 1996 and now serves as the Town Hall.

Thompson’s Station was incorporated as a town in 1990.

The town’s population in 2017 was estimated at 5,662.

G O V ER N ME N T

Thompson’s Station is governed by a Board of Mayor and Aldermen, comprised of a mayor and four town aldermen. The town’s day-to-day operations are overseen by a town administrator. Citizen panels provide input and direction to BOMA members and staff.

The next election will take place in November 2020. Current Mayor is Cory Napier.

T O W N OF T HO M P SON’ S S TATI ON P.O. Box 100 1550 Thompson’s Station Road West Thompson’s Station, TN 37179 (615) 794-4333 www.thompsons-station.com

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ARE YOU IN THE KNOW WITH HAPPENINGS IN YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AND SCHOOLS?

DO YOU READ YOUR HOME PAGE NEWS EVERY DAY?

To learn more about Thompson Station visit SPR I N G H I L L H O MEPAG E. CO M

The train station for which the town is named is across from Circa Restaurant and H. Clark Distillery. The railroad tracks are still active, often with auto carriers from the General Motors plant (left).

Nutro Dog Park is across Hwy. 31 from Mars Petcare’s Global Innovation Center in Thompson’s Station (above).

STEVE HARMAN

SIGN UP TO GET YOUR DAILY EMAIL AND KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING IN YOUR CITY. BRENTWOOD HOMEPAGE.COM FRANKLIN HOMEPAGE.COM

Most Thompson’s Station residents live in Williamson County government’s Districts 2 and 9, with each district represented by two county commissioners and one Williamson County School board representative. The town is split between State Legislative Districts 63 and 65, and is in State Senate District 23, and U.S. Congressional District 7. For more information: www.thompsons-station.com; (615) 794-4333. www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov

DE P A RT MENTS A ND SERV ICES Parks and recreation: Sarah Benson Park is in the town center and has walking-fitness trail, playing fields, two pavilions and a stage. Heritage Park, 96-acres behind Heritage schools’ campus, has 5 baseball fields and walking trails. Nearby are 4 soccer fields of varying sizes. Preservation Park is a passive park with Civil War significance. Nutro Dog Park is a 4-acre dog park with separate areas for large and small dogs. www.thompsons-station. com/; (615) 794-4333.

Community Garden: The Community Gardens are managed by the Thompson’s Station Community Association (TSCA). www.thetsca.org for more information.

Community Center: Located across from Town Hall, this center can be rented for private and community events.

Education: Thompson’s Station is served by seven Williamson County Schools campuses, including Independence High School, Heritage and Thompson’s Station middle schools, and Bethesda, Heritage, Oak View and Thompson’s Station elementary schools. www.wcs.edu/ TSCA: The Thompson’s Station Community Association is a 501c organization that supports and promotes the area’s quality of life. www.thetsca.org.

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TO P EMPL O Y ER S

• Williamson County Schools • Mars Petcare Global Innovation Center GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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WILLIAMSON COUNTY’S OFFICIALLY-DESIGNATED “VILLAGES” REFLECT HISTORY, RURAL LIFESTYLES

BY SUSAN LEATH ER S

W

illiamson County’s I-65 corridor is definitely where the action is when it comes to commerce, tourism, dining, shopping and entertainment.

From the northern border of Brentwood to Spring Hill straddling the Maury/Williamson county line, the green spaces that once sepa36

rated the county’s largest cities are quickly disappearing.

But if you’ll take the time to follow the roads less traveled, specifically those that lead you to the county’s four official “villages,” you’ll discover beautiful landscapes, “Century” farms, homegrown businesses, country diners

and a lifestyle that many who live closer to the interstate long for.

The villages – Leiper’s Fork and Grassland to the west, College Grove and Triune to the east – were identified by the county a decade ago as distinctive from one another but sharing similar traits, among them being crossroads communities of historic significance and located in areas with increased growth pressure.

Each now has its own specific Special Area Plan to guide its growth and help preserve its past. Details on all of these plans can be found at the county’s official website, www. williamsoncounty-tn.gov. Search “Villages” to learn about the processes used to devise the plans and who was involved in crafting them.

In the meantime, let’s take a little road trip to each of them in case you want to discover for yourself what the heart and soul of Williamson County is really like.

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Leiper’s Fork is a scenic, unincorporated village that over the years has attracted celebrities, artists, and tourism (left).

STEVE HARMAN

Visitors to Leiper’s Fork come to hear live music, eat in one of several restaurants, go to art galleries or boutiques, or to access the Natchez Trace Parkway (right).

BATTLE OF FRANKLIN TRUST

Leiper’s Fork

This small community that dates back to the late 1700s is one of Middle Tennessee’s hottest destinations, though it’s comprised of roughly 1,100 acres and about 650 residents.

To some degree “the Fork,” is it’s affectionately called, owes its current popularity and exposure to the movie and music stars who call it home, among the current residents, Justin Timberlake.

With Old Hillsboro Road serving as its “Main Street,” the village hugs the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway to the northwest, and Leiper’s Creek to the south. In 1988, it was placed on the National Register as an official Historic District. Two large parcels of land, one at the village’s eastern border, the other on its west, are protected by the Land Trust for Tennessee.

Once known as Hillsboro, the village got its current name when a post office was established here in 1818. Turns out another Tennessee town already had laid claim to the name for official postal service. So Hillsboro became Leiper’s Fork, though many of its churches, schools and other landmarks still bear the Hillsboro name. Today, however, all mail delivered here carries a Franklin, TN 37064 address.

Hungry? Don’t look for frou-frou dining here. Instead, check out the Country Boy Restaurant (reportedly the oldest running diner in the county) and the original Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant. Want to hear live music? Puckett’s and, on occasion, nearby Green’s Grocery both have you covered. Enjoy and collect fine art? Several of the county’s best fine art galleries, most featuring local artists, are here too.

As the days get longer and temps get warmer, the Lawnchair Theater, tucked behind Leiper’s Creek Gallery, features free family-friendly movies and even live concerts. During the winter holidays, the annual Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade is unlike any you’ve likely ever experienced and truly illustrates the Fork’s whimsical nature.

Nearby, Leiper’s Fork Distillery (the first in the village since Prohibition) is a great place to begin the Masters and Makers Trail, a 70mile, five-stop driving tour showcasing the county’s home-grown wine, beer and spirits industry. In fact, if you start the trail in Leiper’s Fork, make your second stop Arrington Vineyards and Winery – located within a stone’s throw of another village, College Grove.

College Grove

One of the county’s earliest communities, College Grove for two centuries has retained its rural roots and feel. Located due south of Nolensville and I-840’s Hwy. 41A exit, what’s left of its original commercial area is set along Horton Highway (SR 31-A) near its crossroads with Arno-College/Bellenfant Road.

Like Leiper’s Fork, College Grove’s “new” name was established in 1860 with the arrival of a post office. Originally the small commu-

nity was called Harpeth, then Poplar Grove.

A toll road established in 1840 linked College Grove to other nearby towns and Nashville to the north.

The arrival of the Lewis and Northern rail line, begun in 1914, helped the commercial center blossom and provided goods and services to the farmers who made up most of the population.

Sadly, few historic buildings remain. Among them are The Bank of College Grove building, College Grove United Methodist Church and the Dr. Urban Owen House. The village is also home to the Owen Hill Masonic Lodge, chartered in 1849.

Today the county-owned College Grove Parks and Recreation Center serves as the village’s hub and is home to Fifty Forward’s College Grove senior center, the College Grove Community Library, a fitness center and wide range of community activities.

A year-round calendar of community events like its own home-grown Christmas Parade, Easter Egg hunt and any number of community dinners exemplifies the best of small-town living. The Sip and Scoop is the place for coffee or ice cream, but if you need to fill a pantry, Four Corners Grocery & Deli in nearby Eagleville, is the closest grocery store.

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self squeezing through hundreds of weekend tourists in the heart of the village, but this southeastern Williamson County community has attracted visitors of another variety – those that come and stay.

Though located outside the official College Grove “village” boundary as defined by its Special Area Plan, The Grove -- an 1,100acre, gated community with homes starting in the low $900,000s -- has brought a new dynamic to the otherwise still-rural landscape.

It’s built around a Greg Norman-designed golf course.

A second golf community, The Hideaway at Arrington, just north of College Grove, is being developed on singer Tanya Tucker’s former property.

In February, College Grove home sales (ZIP code 37046) led the county in average home price at $825,862. College Grove Elementary School, another community hub, is bursting at the seams.

And in March, more than 50 properties, including some large land tracts, were listed for $1 million or more.

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Triune

Triune, named in 1845 after Triune Methodist Church, is just a seven-minute drive up Highway 41A from College Grove (and about 10 minutes south of Nolensville). The highway’s intersection with Murfreesboro Road/ Hwy. 96, marks the heart of the “village” that’s also easily accessible via I-840.

Prior to the Civil War, the Triune area, previously called Nelsonville, Flemingsburg and Hardeman’s Crossroads, was one of affluence and home to several large plantations, several churches and four boarding schools – two for boys, two for girls. The Bostick Female Academy, built to replace Porter’s Female Academy which Union troops burned, later served as the Triune Public School. Today the building is a private home and on the National Register of Historic Places.

Approximately 1,000 people now call Triune home, though like College Grove, that number is increasing every year as farmland here and in the nearby Arrington community gives way to new residential developments, like King’s Chapel and Arrington Retreat.

The Triune Community Center & Riding Ring, now part of Williamson County Parks & Recreation department, remains a hub for local events and activities. The Triune Riding Club, established in 1962, is the state’s oldest saddle club.

Nearby, neighbors and tourists alike flock to Arrington Vineyards (co-owned by Kix Brooks of Brooks & Dunn fame), which offers weekend Music in the Vines concerts, Food Truck Fridays from May to October and, of course, wine tasting.

The Tennessee Renaissance Festival, an annual celebration of 16th-century England, is open every weekend in May through Memorial Day just east of the village. The festival’s landmark building, Castle Gwynn, is visible from I-840 and has long captivated passersby.

Grassland

From the north, the unincorporated Grassland “village” officially begins close to the dual campuses of Grassland elementary and middle schools and the adjacent 76-acre Grassland Park at the southeast corner of Hillsboro Road and Manley Lane.

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Commoners prostrate themselves as the Queen passes at the Renaissance Fair, which takes place on May weekends in Triune (left).

MICHAEL W. BUNCH

Arrington Vineyards grows acres of grapes, but also blends fruit from other regions (top right).

Grassland Park, between Franklin and Brentwood, includes a sensory park for the blind with fragrant and tactile plants. It is behind Grassland Middle School (bottom right).

STEVE HARMAN

It stretches south, along Hillsboro Road, through two distinct commercial areas and several well-established subdivisions. There’s lots of history to be found within the Special Area Plan as well as “greater Grassland.”

River Rest Estates, across Hillsboro Road from the Grassland schools, is bordered by two historic properties, the William Leaton House on Hillsboro and the John Moran House at the Harpeth River on Moran Road.

Nearby Bethlehem United Methodist Church, established in 1848, remains a vibrant part of the community. Each July it hosts one of the area’s longest-running all-you-can-eat catfish dinners, with the 2019 edition marking its 45th year. The church also is home to the Bethlehem Players community theater.

The community is home to several nurseries and landscape companies, antique and gift shops, small shopping centers and unique eateries. Want a cup of coffee and treat? The Good Cup, est. 2003, feels like home the minute you walk in. Barbara’s Home Cooking, on Old Hillsboro Road, has food just like Mama used to make. Prefer fast food? The Sonic just off Hillsboro on Battlewood Street is always happening.

Worth a visit whether you are visually impaired or not is the Sensory Garden for the Blind, located behind Grassland Park’s ballfields off Manley Lane. Opened in 2011, the garden’s plantings were selected to specifically appeal to the five senses: taste, smell, touch, hearing and sight.

With limited sewer service in the area, new development in Grassland is restricted, though several large developments – Laurelwood, Old Natchez and Legend’s Ridge – have all been established just to its west and south.

The City of Franklin provides water to the area, which also has a Franklin ZIP code (37069).

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G O V ER N M E N T

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

WILLIAMSON COUNTY HIST ORY

Williamson County, established in 1779, is named for Dr. Hugh Williamson. Williamson (1735-1819) was surgeon general of the North Carolina militia, a Continental Congress member and signer of the Constitution. But he never resided here. Franklin, its county seat, is named for his good friend (who also never lived here), Benjamin Franklin.

The county originally had been inhabited by at least five Native American cultures, including tribes of Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Shawnee. Early settlers came from Virginia and North Carolina as part of the western migration following the American Revolutionary War. Many were war veterans paid in land grants, others were speculators who purchased land grants from those not wanting to move.

Prior to the Civil War, the area’s natural resources of timber and rich soil provided a stable and diverse agrarian economy. By 1850, there 40

were 13,000 slaves in the county, making up nearly half the population of more than 27,000.

Three Civil War battles were fought in the county. The Nov. 30, 1864 Battle of Franklin saw some of the highest fatalities of the war, including the deaths of six Confederate generals. Two years later, 1,481 Confederate soldiers who died in battle were re-interred on the grounds of Carnton plantation. The McGavock Confederate Cemetery is the largest private Confederate cemetery in America. The war had a significant effect on the county’s population, which did not surpass that of 1880 until 1970.

In 2017 the county’s population was 226,257.

Today the county and its individual cities are consistently ranked among the nation’s best in the areas of education, recreation, health and cost of living. Twelve of the 25 largest publicly traded companies in the Middle Tennessee are based here and 40 corporate headquarters call Williamson County home.

The Williamson County Board of Commissioners, the county’s legislative body, consists of 24 members, two from each of the county’s 12 districts. Commissioners serve four-year terms.

While the Williamson County Schools’ board of Education sets school policy, the county commission is the schools funding body. The full board meets at 7 p.m. the second Monday of January, February, March, May, June, September, October and November. The July meeting begins at 9 a.m. Meetings are held in the Williamson County Administrative Office Complex auditorium at 1320 West Main Street, Franklin, TN. The Tennessee Constitution provides for each county to elect an executive officer, referred to as the County Mayor. The mayor is elected by popular vote every four years and may serve unlimited terms. Williamson County Mayor Rogers Anderson, re-elected for a fifth term in August 2018, is responsible for the county’s fiscal management and other executive functions.

D EPAR TM E N T S AN D SERV I C E S Williamson County Public Library: Beyond its extensive book collection, the county library offers genealogy workshops, art displays, book clubs, story time, computer classes and more. 1314 Columbia Ave., Franklin, has branches in Bethesda, College Grove, Fairview, Leiper’s Fork and Nolensville. 615595-1243. http://lib.williamson-tn.org/

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Residential Franklin, foreground, blends into corporate Franklin. Liberty Pike is seen in the lower right-hand corner, Nissan North America is the silver building toward the top, and the Drury Plaza Hotel also is visible to the right of Nissan (left).

Bed and breakfast inns are available in towns as well as in various parts of rural Williamson County. This is Moonshine Hill Inn, on Old Hwy. 96 just west of Leiper’s Fork and the Natchez Trace Parkway (right).

VISIT FRANKLIN

Williamson County Parks & Recreation: Offers extensive facilities and parks covering everything from aquatics programs, fitness and wellness, therapeutic recreation, senior programs, newsletter, planning, arts and crafts, special events, and summer activities. Its Athletic Division sponsors leagues and programs in a variety of sports throughout the county.

1120 Hillsboro Road, Franklin, TN 37064; 615790-5719; www.wcparksandrec.com.

Williamson County Schools: The county commission funds the county’s distinguished K-12 school system, guided by its own elected board and director of schools. 1320 West Main St., Franklin, TN 37064. 615-472-4000; www.wcs.edu. The county is also home to the self-funded Franklin Special School District and several private schools.

Williamson County Animal Center: The county’s Animal Control Officers enforce state laws and local ordinances concerning animals, which include dogs running at large and stray animals.

Though officers cannot remove nuisance wildlife from private property, humane traps are available to rent. The center also serves as the county’s animal shelter where dogs and cats can be adopted. 160 Claude Yates Drive, Franklin, TN 37064; 615-790-5590; www.adoptwcac.org.

Williamson County Highway Department: This department constructs and maintains roads and bridges in unincorporated areas.

This is the place to call to report hazardous road conditions. 302 Beasley Drive, Franklin, TN 37064; 615-790-5596.

Law enforcement: The Williamson County Sheriff’s department is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of the county. The department also sponsors several public safety programs and including women’s self-defense classes, handgun shooting and safety classes and the Sheriff’s Office Citizens Academy. The department also oversees the Williamson County Jail. 408 Century Court, Franklin, TN 37064; 615-7905560. In case of emergency, dial 9-1-1.

WILLIAMSON C O U NT Y 1320 W. Main Street Franklin, TN 37064 www.Williamsoncounty-tn.gov

Solid Waste and Recycling: The Williamson County Solid Waste Department manages 10 convenience centers located throughout Williamson County and two additional recycling drop-off centers. No commercial recycling or waste will be accepted at any convenience center location. Commercial waste must be taken to the county landfill. Proof of residency is required. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays; 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 5750 Pinewood Road, Franklin, TN 37064; 615-7900742. Visit www.williamsoncounty-tn.gov/159/ Convenience-Centers for a list of centers.

County Clerk: The county clerk’s office, located in the Administration Complex, is the place to head for vehicle title and registration services, business permits, marriage licenses and beer permits. 1320 W. Main St., Suite 135, Franklin, TN 37064; 615-790-5712; open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Election Commission: Your go-to spot for county and local election and voting information, voter registration and more. 1320 West Main St., Suite 140, Franklin, TN 37064; 615790-5711; http://www.williamsoncounty-tn. gov/40/Election-Commission.

Driver Services Center (DMV): Services include written and road driving tests and issuing new and renewal driver’s licenses and identification cards. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; Appointments available.

3830 Carothers Parkway, Franklin, TN 37067; 615-790-5515. www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/locations/williamson.html.

Williamson Medical Center: This countyowned hospital, established in 1958, offers comprehensive medical care at its Franklin medical center and walk-in clinics. 4321 Carothers Pkwy. Franklin, TN 37067; 615-4355000; www.williamsonmedicalcenter.org.

Health Department: Medical and dental services; immunizations and help with immunization records; public health education programs. Hours are 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays.

1324 W Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064; 615794-1542; https://www.williamsoncounty-tn. gov/120/Health-Department.

CO MMU N I T Y E V E N T S

The Williamson County Fair returned in 2005 and has grown each year, capturing state and national recognition. The 2019 fair is set Aug. 2-10, 2019. Ag Expo Park, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin, TN 37064; 615-794-4386; williamsoncountyfair.org. Other annual events at Ag Expo Park include the Bloom ‘n’ Garden Expo and the Franklin Rodeo.

TO P 5 EM P LOYE RS

• Williamson County Schools • Community Health Systems • Williamson County Government • HCA Healthcare Inc. • Williamson Medical Center GUIDE TO WILLIAMSON COUNTY

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2019 April 27: Movies in the Park, 6pm, Crockett Park, 1490 Volunteer Pkwy., Brentwood.

“Mary Poppins Returns” will be shown in the Eddy Arnold Amphitheater. Free. www.brentwoodtn.gov; (615) 371-0060.

May 9: 30th annual Steak & Burger Dinner, The Factory at Franklin, 230 Franklin Road, Franklin. Dinner benefitting Boys & Girls Clubs of Middle Tennessee. $125. bgcmt.org; (615) 628-8188.

April 27-28: 36th annual Main Street Festival, sponsored by Main Street Franklin and the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County.

Music, arts & crafts, food, children’s activities.

Draws 100k over 2 days. Free. williamsonheritage.org/mainstreet; (615) 591-8500.

May 16-18: 70th annual Franklin Rodeo, presented by Franklin Rotary Club. Kicks off at noon, May 11, with annual parade in downtown Franklin. PRCA pro rodeo events, 7 p.m. each night. Free parking, Williamson County Ag Expo, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin. www. franklinrodeo.com

May 2-5: Nashville Golf Open, Nashville Golf & Athletic Club, Brentwood. This is one of 27 PGA Tour-owned Web.com Tour events and benefits the Snedeker Foundation. Parking at Ravenwood High School, 1724 Wilson Pike, Brentwood. $10-$175. www.ngogolf.com; May 3: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists on display.

May 4, 5, 11, 12, 18, 19, 25, 26, 27: Tennessee Renaissance Festival, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 2124 New Castle Road, Arrington. Travel back to 16th Century England at Castle Gwynn. Free children’s activities. $23-$130. www.tnrenfest. com; (615) 395-9950.

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May 17: Touch-a-Truck, 5-8 p.m., Jim Warren Park, 705 Boyd Mill Ave., Franklin. Trucks, tractors, machines, police cars, fire trucks and more. Food trucks, music. Free. www. franklintn.gov; (615) 794-2103.

June 6-8: Swanky Plank Vintage and Handmade Market at Rippavilla Plantation. Vendors come from all over to showcase their vintage, antique, repurposed, handmade, small-batch and artisan goods. Friday, 4-8 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

June 7: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists on display.

June 9: Summer Concert Series, 7 p.m., Eddy Arnold Amphitheater in Crockett Park, 1490 Volunteer Pkwy., Brentwood. Brentwood’s free summer concert series kicks off with Rubiks Groove; June 23, Six Wire; July 14, South Street Players. Free. www.brentwoodtn.gov; (615) 371-0060.

June 15: Brentfest, 3-10 p.m., Crockett Park, 1490 Volunteer Pkwy., Brentwood. An afternoon and evening celebration of Brentwood’s 50th anniversary. Kid zone, food trucks, beer garden, live music. Free. www.brentwoodtn50.org; (615) 371-0060.

July 3-4: Independence Day festivities take place around the county. Among the largest: Franklin on the Fourth, July 4, 10 a.m.-8 p.m., Downtown Franklin; Red, White and Boom featuring the Kadillacs, July 4, 7 p.m., Crockett Park, 1490 Volunteer Pkwy., Brentwood; July 3rd Celebration, Fairview City Hall, 7100 City Center Circle, Fairview; Nolensville, date TBA, Nolensville Park, 2310 Nolensville Park Road.

July 5: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

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July 13: Experience Spring Hill is 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is hosted by the Spring Hill Chamber of Commerce. Bring out the family and get ready to shop, eat and play at this events which grows larger every year.

July 26-27: Bluegrass Along the Harpeth fiddler’s jamboree, Franklin Square. Friday night bluegrass bands; Saturday bluegrass competitions. Free. www.bluegrassalongtheharpeth. com; (615) 390-3588.

Aug. 2: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Aug. 2-10: Williamson County Fair, daily hours vary, Williamson County Ag Expo Park, 4215 Long Lane, Franklin. Stage shows, midway, 4-H agricultural exhibits, Fair pageants, fireworks, competitive events in culinary arts, livestock, more. www.williamsoncountyfair.org; (615) 794-4FUN (4386).

Aug. 7: First day of school for Franklin Special School District (early dismissal).

Aug. 9: First day of school for Williamson County Schools students (early dismissal).

Aug. 10: Harvest Party at Arrington Vineyards.

This is an all-day event where Kix Brooks will take the stage and you can hear jazz by 9 Volt Romeo. Food trucks and other catering available.

Aug. 16 - Sept. 8: Studio Tenn presents Mamma Mia! This musical tells the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father through ABBA’s timeless songs. Tickets range from $35 to $90.

Sept. 6: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Oct. 5: 8th annual Westhaven Porch Fest, with live music throughout the west Franklin community. 4-8 p.m. Free. westhaventn.com; (615) 791-6740.

Sept. 14, 2019: 35th annual Nature Fest, Bowie Nature Park, 7211 Bowie Lake Road, Fairview. Music and entertainment, kids’ activities, food, games, local vendors. www.fairviewchamber.org; (615) 799-9290.

Oct. 10: Rendezvous at Ravenswood, 6 p.m., Smith Park, 1825 Wilson Pike, Brentwood.

An evening of celebration at Ravenswood Mansion concludes Brentwood’s 50th anniversary events. Ticket price TBA. www.brentwoodtn50.org; (615) 371-0060.

Sept. 21-22: Pilgrimage Music & Cultural Festival, The Park at Harlinsdale, 239 Franklin Road, Franklin. A diverse lineup of musicians plays on 5 stages. Pilgrimagefestival.com

Oct. 12: Spring Hill Art Walk takes place 12-4 p.m. on Main Street. This family-friendly event is packed with artistic and musical talent.

Sept. 2019: 5th annual Walk in the Park, date TBA, 2-6 p.m., Marcella Vivrette Smith Park, 1825 Wilson Pike, Brentwood. Rain or shine. Hiking, children’s events, music, food, beverages. Benefits Citizens for Brentwood Green Space and Smith Park. www.brentwoodgreenspace.org.

Oct. 25: 15th annual Franklin Wine Festival, 7-10 p.m., The Factory at Franklin, 230 Franklin Rd., Franklin. Popular wine tasting event benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Middle Tennessee. Ticket price TBA. Mentorakid.rallybound.org/franklinwinefestival; (615) 522-5665.

Sept. 28: Public Safety Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Brentwood Place, 330 Franklin Road, Brentwood. Visit with Brentwood’s first responders, check out fire trucks and police cars, fire safety tips. Free. www.brentwoodtn.gov; (615) 371-0060.

Oct. 26: 36th annual Pumpkinfest, downtown Franklin, sponsored by Main Street Franklin and the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. Family oriented fall festival. Costume contests, arts and crafts, food, music, entertainment. Free. williamsonheritage.org/ pumpkinfest; (615) 591-8500.

Oct. 4: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Oct. 5: 46th annual Heritage Ball, Carnton Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin.

Williamson County’s longest-running black -tie event benefits Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. Seated dinner, music, live and silent auction. Tickets on sale in August.

Williamsonheritage.org; (615) 591-8500.

Nov. 1: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Nov. 2: Family Day at Harlinsdale Farm, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 239 Franklin Road, Franklin. Petting zoo, inflatables, hayrides, food trucks, more.

Free. www.franklintn.gov/; 615-794-2103.

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Nov. 2: Wine Down Main Street, downtown Franklin. Wine tasting stations along Main Street, 3rd Avenue and 4th Avenue, food stations, live music. Benefits Boys & Girls Clubs. $75-$200pp. bgcmt.org/wine-down-mainstreet; (615) 628-8188.

Nov. 2019: Franklin Veterans Day Parade, 11 a.m., route begins at W. Main and 5th Ave., travels up Main Street to Second Avenue.

Remembers and honors local veterans. Free. www.franklintn.gov/; (615) 794-1594.

Nov. 7-9: Blue & Gray Days, Carter House, 1140 Columbia Ave., Franklin, and Carnton, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin. Guests will meet Civil War re-enactors and 1800s living histories. $10. Boft.org; (615) 794-0903.

Nov. 30: Battle of Franklin Illumination, Carnton Plantation, 1345 Eastern Flank Circle, Franklin. 10,000 luminaries are lighted at dusk to honor the Battle of Franklin’s casualties.

Free. Boft.org; (615) 794-0903.

Dec. 2: City of Brentwood’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, 5 p.m., John P. Holt Brentwood Library, 8109 Concord Road, Brentwood.

Special music, holiday treats. Free. Readings of “The Polar Express” in the Reading Room (free ticketed event). www.brentwoodtn.gov; (615) 371-0060.

Dec. 6: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

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Dec. 6-29: Studio Tenn presents Rogers + Hammerstein’s Cinderella, a family fun musical that will delight audiences with its contemporary take on the classic tale. Show begins at 7 p.m. Tickets are from $35 to $90.

Dec. 6: Christmas Tree Lighting on the Square, 109 Third Ave. South in downtown Franklin.

Music, free photos with Santa, more. Free. 4:306:30 p.m. www.franklintn.gov; (615) 791-3217.

Dec. 7: Historic Downtown Franklin Christmas Parade, sponsored by the Kiwanis Club of Historic Downtown Franklin. Free.

Dec. 13: Flashlight Candy Cane Hunt, 5-8 p.m., Eastern Flank Battlefield Park, 1368 Eastern Flank Cir., Franklin. Similar to an Easter Egg hunt but at night. Hot chocolate, cookies. Registration opens Nov. 4, entry fee. www.franklintn.gov; (615) 791-3217.

Dec. 14: Leiper’s Fork Christmas Parade, date TBA, Historic Leiper’s Fork, Old Hillsboro Road, Franklin. Described as “almost famous,” this homegrown parade is country and quirky. Free. www.visitfranklin.com.

Dec. 14: Spring Hill Christmas Parade begins at 5:30 p.m. Pre-parade festivities are held on the lawn of Tennessee Children’s Home.

Dec. 14-15: Dickens of a Christmas, 10 a.m.4 p.m., downtown Franklin. Victorian holiday celebration featuring characters from Charles Dickens’ works, food, music, arts & crafts, more. Free. williamsonheritage.org/events; (615) 591-8500.

Jan. 3: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Feb. 7-16: Studio Tenn presents Steel Magnolias, the quintessentially Southern classic beloved play about the hope, healing and humor possible in the midst of heartache.

Shows at 7 p.m. Tickets are available from $35 to $90.

Feb. 7: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Feb. 8: Mardi Gras Ball & Krewe Party benefitting My Friend’s House. Enjoy a fourcourse dinner and dancing into the night at this special evening will be an opportunity to celebrate with those in our community who share the same vision and heart for the special youth served by My Friend’s House.

Mar. 6: Franklin Art Scene. Join hundreds of art lovers the first Friday of every month as you stroll through local shops and restaurants and celebrate local artists.

Mar. 26: Studio Tenn presents their Legacy Series which brings you an eclectic variety of best-selling music and medleys from the most beloved artists. Tickets $35 to $90.

COURTESY OF VISIT FRANKLIN

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S PON S OR E D PROFIL E COMPA N Y PROFIL E 219 Granny White Pike, Brentwood, TN 37027 (615) 523-0611 admission@brentwoodacademy.com brentwoodacademy.com FACTS Average class size: 17 students Faculty/ student ratio: 10:7 Average grade size: 115 College acceptance rate: 100%

S PE C I A LT IE S

Brentwood Academy Brentwood Academy is a collegepreparatory school committed to fostering academic excellence and a growing faith in God. Serving students in grades 6 through 12, BA strives to inspire students to pursue truth and create a strong work ethic that will last throughout their lives.

BA is celebrating its 50th year with continued excellence in education, athletics and extracurricular programs such as Robotics, Speech and Debate, Student Leadership, and off-campus service projects.

Brentwood Academy incorporates block scheduling to help prepare students for college. While students may have six or seven courses a semester, their daily schedules include only three core classes with longer periods that alternate every other day. BA offers standard courses in English, mathematics, history, world languages and science and also offers 21 Advanced Placement courses and 24 honors courses in the upper school (grades 9-12).

Athletics are a vital part of Brentwood Academy; developing athletic skill and teaching discipline, commitment, hard work and team spirit. All students participate in either a sport or physical education class as a part of BA’s mission to educate

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each student—“body, mind, and spirit—to the glory of God.” The athletic program has seen records broken and huge achievements over the past 50 years including 82 state championships in 12 different boys’ and girls’ varsity sports.

Most importantly, BA is committed to providing an environment centered around Christ. Each educator has a growing relationship with God and a passion to share their knowledge of Christ with students. Each individual student’s religious beliefs are respected at BA, fostering an open and safe place to grow spiritually for all.

Students participate in a variety of faith-based activities including daily chapel attendance, service projects, retreats, family fellowship opportunities and Spiritual Emphasis Week. Spiritual Emphasis Week is a full week of devotions from special guests and ends with a special day for students and their grandparents.

Brentwood Academy’s overall purpose is to help each student flourish in all areas of life.

Through support in academic, spiritual, and physical growth by way of Biblical truths and values, BA aims to give every student a solid foundation for college and beyond.

Academic Support Evening Education Empowerment (E3) is designed to empower students to dig deeper in their academic excellence. No matter the subject, all students’ needs are met at no cost to parents.

Tutors and teachers are available to help students on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays after school in the junior hallway.

Athletics Baseball · Basketballl · Cheerleading · Cross Country Football · Golf · Hockey · Soccer Softball · Swimming · Tennis Track · Volleyball · Wrestling Winterim Students enrolled in the upper school participate in off-campus learning opportunities every January. These opportunities help expand students’ world views, deepen relationships between teachers and students and take learning to a new level outside of the classroom.

Extracurriculars · Youth Legislature · Model United Nations · Governors’ School · Robotics · Girls’ and Boys’ State · National Merit Scholar Program · National Exams in Latin, French, · Spanish, Mathematics · Speech and Debate · Student publications · Fine arts opportunities: theater, choral and instrumental performances, dance programs · Math team

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4/18/19 1:43 PM