Civil War Tour with Lotz House, Carter House & Carnton Admission from Nashville

Key Points

• Full-day, 7-hour tour from Nashville designed for history enthusiasts
• Visit three historic sites: Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation
• Learn about the Battle of Franklin, known as the five bloodiest hours of the Civil War
• Admission included for all three homes, each with battle scars still visible
• Transport is round-trip, air-conditioned, with a maximum group size of 24
• Tour cost is $101.90 per person, with most bookings made about 28 days in advance

Historic Sites with Battle Scars: Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation

This tour offers a comprehensive look at the Battle of Franklin, fought on November 30, 1864, one of the most brutal episodes of the Civil War. Starting in downtown Nashville, it departs at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 7 hours, making it ideal for those with a full day to explore history in a meaningful way.

You’ll visit three key sites in Franklin: the Lotz House, Carter House, and Carnton Plantation. Admission to each site is included, and all three still visibly display damage from the battle, including bullet holes, cannonball impacts, and bloodstains. The guide leads you through their stories, highlighting their roles during and after the fighting.

The Role of the Carter House During the Battle

The Carter House holds a central position in the story of the Battle of Franklin. Located at the heart of the Union line, it served as the Federal headquarters during the fighting. The house and its outbuildings bear the marks of combat, with hundreds of bullet holes still visible on the walls.

The guide shares how the Carter House was used as a shelter and a command post during the battle, giving visitors a vivid sense of the chaos experienced nearby. After the fighting, it also functioned as a makeshift hospital, adding to its historical significance.

Exploring the Lotz House and Its Battle Wounds

The Lotz House stands out for its well-preserved battle scars. After the battle, it became a field hospital, and its floors and walls still show cannonball holes and bloodstains. These details vividly convey the brutality of the five-hour fight.

This site provides insight into the residents’ experience, especially considering the shock of emerging to find more than 9,500 casualties. The house has been refurbished but maintains the injuries inflicted by the battle, offering an authentic, sobering view of the conflict’s aftermath.

The Significance of Carnton Plantation and Its Confederate Cemetery

The Carnton Plantation is a 48-acre farm that served as a Confederate field hospital during the battle. It is now home to the largest private Confederate cemetery in the United States, where many soldiers perished.

Visitors learn about the plantation’s role in saving wounded soldiers and how it became a lasting monument. The guide describes the brutal conditions and the efforts of those who cared for the wounded, making it a site of deep remembrance.

Franklin’s Historic Town Center and Personal Time

Following visits to the historic homes, the tour provides free time in the town of Franklin. This is an opportunity to shop, eat (on your own), and see additional historic sites. Franklin’s charming streets offer a chance to reflect on the history while enjoying the local atmosphere.

The downtown area is close to the homes, making it convenient to explore at your own pace before returning to Nashville. This break adds a relaxed element to the otherwise structured day.

The Experience on the Coach and the Guides

The tour departs from 108 1st Ave S, Nashville, on a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The group size is limited to 24, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

Throughout the day, the guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling ability. They provide detailed narratives about the battle, the homes, and the families affected, making the history accessible and vivid. Reviewers highlight guide Jeff’s storytelling, noting his ability to set the scene and keep interest high.

Accessibility and Physical Considerations

The tour involves walking through historic houses, with some sites featuring stairs and uneven terrain**, which could be a consideration for those with mobility challenges. The guide recommends being prepared for some standing and walking, especially at the homes. Service animals are allowed, and ADA-compliant vehicles can be arranged if notified 48 hours in advance.

Logistics, Booking, and Cost

The full-day tour costs $101.90 per person, which includes all admissions and round-trip transportation. It starts at 9:00 am and returns to the same meeting point in Nashville. Most bookings are made about 28 days in advance, suggesting strong demand.

Cancellation is free if canceled at least 24 hours before the start, providing flexibility for change of plans. Weather considerations are also addressed, with the possibility of rescheduling or full refunds if the tour is canceled due to poor weather.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Civil War Experiences

This tour stands out for its comprehensive access to three historic homes with battle damage still visible, combined with a well-paced day of sightseeing and storytelling. The inclusion of Franklin’s town center allows personal exploration, adding a relaxed element to the more intense historical sites.

Compared to other Nashville attractions, this tour offers an immersive look at a pivotal Civil War event, emphasizing preserved battle scars and personal stories. The small group size and dedicated guides ensure an engaging and informative experience, appreciated by many reviewers.

Final Thoughts on the Civil War Tour with Lotz House, Carter House & Carnton Admission

This 7-hour guided tour from Nashville delivers a detailed, authentic view of the Battle of Franklin and its aftermath. The admissions included to three historic homes with visible battle damage make it a compelling experience for history buffs and Civil War enthusiasts alike.

While the physical demands may be a consideration for some, the knowledgeable guides and well-preserved sites compensate with powerful storytelling and visually impactful history. The cost of $101.90 offers good value, especially for those interested in in-depth historical exploration.

This tour is best suited for those who want to see key historic sites, learn about the battle’s significance, and appreciate the personal stories behind the conflict. With high praise for the guides and the sites’ authenticity, it promises a memorable, educational day in Franklin.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included; you have time to eat in downtown Franklin at your own expense.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 24 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are the sites suitable for visitors with mobility issues?
Some stops involve stairs and walking; those with mobility challenges should be prepared. ADA-compliant vehicles are available if notified 48 hours in advance.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the start time, with full refunds offered.

What makes this tour specially valuable?
The tour offers visits to three historic houses with battle scars, detailed guidance, and personal time in Franklin, making it an engaging way to explore Civil War history firsthand.