Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Tennessee

Founded in 1807, Franklin County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Franklin County was formed from Rutherford County and Indian lands. The city of Winchester is the county seat. With FIPS code of 51, Franklin County has a population of 43,215 and area of 553 square miles (1,432 km²).

List of all cities in Franklin County, TN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Belvidere, TN	37306	931
Cowan, TN	37318	931
Decherd, TN	37324	931
Estill Springs, TN	37330	931
Huntland, TN	37345	931
Saint Andrews, TN	37375	931
Sewanee, TN	37375	931
	37383	931
Sherwood, TN	37376	931
University of the South, TN	37383	931
Winchester, TN	37398	931

Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Tennessee

Winchester

Overview

• Area: Approximately 11.8 square miles
• Population: 8,724 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37398
• Coordinates: 35.1856° N, 86.1128° W

Location and History

Winchester, the county seat of Franklin County, is located in the heart of southern Middle Tennessee, near Tims Ford Lake. Established in 1810, the city was named after General James Winchester, a Revolutionary War hero. Winchester grew as an agricultural and trade hub, benefiting from its location along major transportation routes. During the Civil War, the city was a strategic point for both Confederate and Union forces due to its proximity to key railroads. In the mid-20th century, the creation of Tims Ford Lake bolstered tourism and recreation, adding to Winchester’s appeal.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Winchester is served by Franklin County Schools, with Franklin County High School located within the city limits. Notable landmarks include the historic Franklin County Courthouse, a centerpiece of the downtown square, and Tims Ford State Park, offering boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities. The Old Jail Museum preserves the city’s history, while the annual Dogwood Festival celebrates local culture with music, crafts, and food. Winchester’s vibrant downtown area features unique shops and restaurants, attracting both residents and visitors.

Cowan

Overview

• Area: Approximately 2.0 square miles
• Population: 1,737 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37318
• Coordinates: 35.1645° N, 86.0100° W

Location and History

Cowan is located in southeastern Franklin County, near the base of the Cumberland Plateau. The town was founded in the mid-19th century as a railroad community, named after a local family influential in its development. The Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad played a pivotal role in Cowan’s growth, turning it into a hub for transporting goods and passengers. During the Civil War, Cowan was an important supply point for Union forces. Today, it is a quiet town known for its historical significance and proximity to the plateau.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cowan Elementary School serves the local community’s educational needs. Landmarks include the Cowan Railroad Museum, which showcases the town’s railroading history with exhibits and restored railcars. Nearby Sewanee Natural Bridge and Fiery Gizzard Trail provide outdoor enthusiasts with scenic hiking opportunities. Cowan also hosts the annual Cowan Fall Heritage Festival, celebrating its cultural and historical roots with live music, crafts, and local food.

Sewanee

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.4 square miles
• Population: 2,311 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37375
• Coordinates: 35.2034° N, 85.9213° W

Location and History

Sewanee, located atop the Cumberland Plateau in Franklin County, is best known as the home of the University of the South. Founded in 1857 by Episcopal bishops, the university, often referred to as Sewanee, has shaped the town’s identity as an academic and cultural center. The Civil War interrupted the university’s operations, but it reopened in 1868 and has since become one of the South’s most prestigious liberal arts institutions. The town of Sewanee has grown around the university, offering a unique blend of academic, cultural, and outdoor opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sewanee Elementary School serves the local community, while the University of the South provides higher education and cultural programming. Landmarks include All Saints’ Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the Sewanee Natural Bridge, a geological marvel. The Perimeter Trail encircles the campus, offering breathtaking views of the plateau. The town is also home to the Sewanee Writers’ Conference, which attracts authors and poets from around the world. Sewanee’s tranquil atmosphere and historic charm make it a unique destination.

Decherd

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.1 square miles
• Population: 2,341 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37324
• Coordinates: 35.2092° N, 86.0705° W

Location and History

Decherd is located near Winchester and serves as a gateway to the Cumberland Plateau. The town was established in the mid-19th century as a railroad community and was named after Peter Decherd, a local landowner who contributed to its founding. The arrival of the Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad transformed Decherd into a center for trade and transportation. Over the years, the town has maintained its small-town charm while adapting to modern development.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Decherd Elementary School serves local students, with older students attending schools in nearby Winchester. Landmarks include the historic Decherd Depot, a testament to the town’s railroading past, and nearby Tims Ford Lake, which offers outdoor recreational opportunities. Decherd’s downtown area features historic buildings and small businesses, contributing to its character. Community events and seasonal festivals foster a sense of togetherness among residents and visitors alike.