Franklin County, Tennessee

Franklin County sits in southern Middle Tennessee, where rolling hills and mountain scenery meet the valleys below. Winchester, the county seat, has a charming downtown that has been enjoying a bit of a revival. The University of the South, better known as Sewanee, is also located here and adds a lively college-town feel to the area.

Two major reservoirs, Tims Ford Lake and Woods Reservoir, give visitors plenty of options for fishing, boating, and enjoying the outdoors. Civil War history can be found throughout the county, including old fortifications and historic sites. Farming remains important, while tourism continues to bring more visitors to the area.

Fall is especially beautiful, when the changing leaves cover the hills in brilliant colors. Locals take pride in their traditions and heritage, while the community continues to welcome newcomers. Franklin County has a relaxed feel, but there’s also a sense that the area is changing and growing. It’s a place where mountain landscapes and valley life come together.

CategoryDetails
County NameFranklin County
County SeatWinchester
PopulationApproximately 44,000
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesWinchester, Cowan, Decherd, Estill Springs, Sewanee, Monteagle
Interstates and HighwaysInterstate 24, U.S. Highway 41A, U.S. Highway 64
FIPS Code47-051
Total Area (Land and Water)576 square miles (554 sq mi land, 22 sq mi water)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Coffee County (North), Grundy County (Northeast), Marion County (East), Jackson County, Alabama (South), Madison County, Alabama (Southwest), Lincoln County (West), Moore County (Northwest)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateTennessee
Coordinates35°10’N, 86°06’W
EtymologyNamed after Benjamin Franklin, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States
Major LandmarksTims Ford Lake, University of the South (Sewanee), Tims Ford State Park
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