419 MURFREESBORO ROAD | FRANKLIN, TN |37064 | $2,975,000 | 5 BEDROOMS | 4.5 BATHS | 6,128 SQ. FT. | 4-CAR DETACHED GARAGE
By Shelly Robertson Birdsong
This incredible, historic home, located just outside the downtown Square in Franklin, was originally built by J.T. Shannon in 1866 and on 400 acres. Now lovingly and beautifully restored and renovated, the home showcases both old and new design and architecture. When Thomas Jefferson traveled in Italy, he was inspired by buildings designed by Andrea Palladio. Palladio’s designs heavily influenced Jefferson’s home, Monticello. Local architect Don Burke based the addition to this house on Palladio’s principles.
After the initial structure was built, over the years the exterior was changed but while researching the history of the property, an old photo of the original house was found by the current owner and builder, Bill Powell. Bill worked with Don Burke, known for restoring historic buildings, and the two worked to restore the original Palladio inspired exterior. While keeping the historic charm and character of this home, they added to the existing home and improved the functionality and livability.
As you enter this historic gem, you are greeted by one of the finest hand-built circular staircases in Tennessee. The original Heart of Pine wood treads staircase, with J.T. Shannon’s original signature in three places, hearken to a time when things were built to last and authenticity was on full display.
The world renowned Andrea Palladio designs include his trademark glass rotundas in his homes. This home includes a replica rotunda and is centrally located in the house, allowing natural light to flood in from the thirty-foot-tall glass structure. The 265 lb. chandelier is the stunning focal point of this space.
As you tour throughout the rest of the home, you will notice many historic details such as handmade brick hearths and fireplaces, Greek Revival trim and mantles from 1835, re-purposed windows and Virgin Poplar and Heart of Pine wood floors. Re-purposed candle holders and gas lighting, mortise and tenon constructed interior doors with antique cast iron rim locks and original porcelain knobs, bring you back to yesteryear.
Although homage has been paid to the historic integrity of the home, it has also been outfitted to accommodate living in today’s modern world. Notable upgrades include taking the home down to the studs and completely rebuilding with a new foundation and footers (per local codes), new HVAC and furnaces, plumbing, electrical, Cat-V wiring, new fixtures and a detached four car garage. Modern bathrooms, laundry, kitchen and tankless water heater with recirculating pump, make your daily routines a breeze.
This home is a wonderful mix of brand new with re-purposed original materials that add the nostalgia of the original historic home.
What a wonderful piece of history, charm and character in the heart of Franklin that you can call your new home and create new memories.
