Cemetery Tour

            There's a story behind every tombstone . . . .

Franklin’s two old city cemeteries have stories to tell, and visitors now have an opportunity to hear them on Franklin on Foot's new City and Rest Haven cemeteries tour.

Your Franklin on Foot guide will tell stories about some of the people buried in the cemeteries and explain the meanings behind the symbolism found in funerary art. You will gain a new appreciation for some of those who have gone before.

 Visitors will hear about :

• Anarchy Cowles, whose husband purchased her freedom from slavery;

•  George Cuppett, who oversaw the reburials at the McGavock Confederate Cemetery, and whose body was returned to Franklin from his home in Kentucky for burial 35 years later; and 

• Tod Carter, who his men into the Battle of Franklin with the shout, “Follow me boys, I’m almost home!” 

Funerary art reached its peak in the 19^th century, as elaborate markers were erected to commemorate deaths of loved ones. Many of the symbols seen on gravestones have obvious meanings, like the cross and the Masonic crest.  Then there are the unusual ones, like ferns, veils, stars, ivy and tree trunks, as well as these pictured above. We think you will find the meanings of these symbols fascinating!

The cemeteries are located at Fourth Avenue North and North Margin Street. Daily tours are at 3:00 p.m. and last about 90 minutes. The tour cost is $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 6-12. Ages 5 and under are free. 

                                Reservations are required for all tours. Call 615-400-3808.