Defining Moments of Williamson County

In this special edition of YOUR Williamson, as we reflect on the history of Williamson County, we are reminded of the strength, resilience, and spirit that have shaped this community. From humble beginnings in 1799 to the dynamic growth of today, our county has weathered wars, economic hardships, and rapid development while maintaining its unique identity. Towns from every corner within county lines have their own rich narratives that speak to the heart of what it means to live and thrive in middle Tennessee. As we honor Williamson County’s 225th anniversary, we celebrate not only the milestones and historic places, but also the people who have made this community what it is today  —a place where history is not just remembered but revered, and a place where the future looks very bright indeed.

1799

Tennessee General Assembly establishes Williamson County, named after Founding Father Dr. Hugh Williamson

1815

The town of Franklin is incorporated, named after Benjamin Franklin

1820

First county newspaper printed in Franklin

1823

The Masonic Hall, a mix of Gothic Revival and Federal architecture, is built

1830

Meeting of the Chickasaw Treaty Council takes placeat the Masonic Hall

1856

The Tennessee-Alabama railroad comes to Williamson County

1864

Battle of Franklin

1871

First Williamson County school districts are organized

1880

The Hard Bargain neighborhood is established by Harvey McLemore, a former slave

1899

The Civil War Soldier monument is erected in Franklin’s square

1905

A 100-gallon water tower is built near Franklin’s courthouse, providing running water from Leiper's Fork springs to Franklin

1908

Middle Tennessee railroad connects Franklin to Mount Pleasant, providing transportation for residents to work in neighboring phosphate mines

1929

Allen Manufacturing Company builds a complex of ten buildings totaling 310,000 square feet on Franklin Road for the purpose of building coal stoves

1932 

Allen Manufacturing goes into receivership. Dortch Stove Works purchases the plant, providing jobs to locals during the Great Depression

1938

Dan German Hospital becomes the first hospital established in Williamson County

1939

Six years after prohibition is repealed nationally, Franklin finally becomes a “wet” county

1942

Williamson County soldiers dispatch for WWII from Five Points in downtown Franklin

1962

Schools begin to integrate in Franklin, setting the stage for the rest of the South

1972 Historic zoning saves Franklin’s Main Street from developers

1988

City Streetscape Initiative dramatically changes the appearance and function of downtown Franklin

1991

Cool Springs Galleria opens

2020

A worldwide pandemic spawns a relocation boom to Williamson County

2024

Williamson County experiences a century’s worth of growth in four years