Lotz House

In 1855, Johann Albert Lotz and his family arrived in Franklin from eastern Germany, seeking peace after years of conflict in their homeland. They purchased five acres from Moscow Carter and built their home by 1858. However, the Civil War shattered their hopes, and during the Battle of Franklin in 1864, the Lotzes took refuge in the Carters' basement. Their home then served as a field hospital for wounded Union and Confederate soldiers until the following summer. After the war, economic hardships from Reconstruction forced the Lotz family to leave Franklin in 1869. They moved to San Jose to join their son Paul, who was already working as an artist in the area.

In commemoration of the 160th Anniversary of the Battle of Franklin held on November 30th, the Lotz House will host a Walking Battlefield Tour at 10:30am led by Thomas Cartwright and an Illumination Ceremony on the front lawn of the home, ground zero of the Battle of Franklin, at 4:30pm - the time the battle ensued. The public is invited to join in the lighting of a luminary on the front steps of the Lotz House, along with a special tribute by instrumentalist Cody Engdahl and reenactor Bill Radcliff. On November 29th, the Lotz House will also offer a special Walking Battlefield Tour of Spring Hill, led by historian Jamie Gillum, to commemorate the historic battle that led to the Battle of Franklin. Gillum wrote “Twenty-Five Hours to Tragedy” about the battle that was the prelude to the Battle of Franklin, which ensued the following day. In addition, on November 29th, the Lotz House will offer guests cookies and cider to celebrate what would be Matilda Lotz’s 166th birthday. Reservations are required. For more information and to reserve your spot, call 615.790.7190 or visit lotzhouse.com.