We tend to view history from a political lens. We follow the great men and women of the past as they changed the culture and shaped the world we live in today. Now, we love that kind of history, but there are small little pockets of time that seem to be forgotten. There were times long ago when people lived ordinary lives but did extraordinary things – things that have slid under the historical radar. They might not have changed the political structure of the world, but they made an impact nonetheless, and these interesting stories can be just as fascinating. These stories can be seen at many of Tennessee’s coolest historical sites, but for a peek into the past that’s a little closer to home, you can find tales like those in this historic mansion in McMinnville, Tennessee.

The Falcon Rest Mansion started as one man’s attempt to bring his wife closer to his work.
Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens/ Google
In 1896, Clay Faulkner made the audacious claim that he would build "the grandest mansion in Tennessee" if she would move near their woolen mill where he made his famous Gorilla Pants (so named because they were "so strong even a gorilla couldn’t tear them apart" She graciously accepted the offer and he set out to work.
After the Faulkners passed away, the mansion was used as a hospital and nursing home from the 1940s to the 1960s, but then was left vacant for many years. A man named George McGlothin bought the property at an auction.
John Jozsa/GoogleMaps
Like the former owner, McGlothin set out to build a wonderful mansion by restoring it to its original glory. However, McGlothin was a charismatic showman with a dream to show off this amazing piece of history as a tourist attraction.
The dream was completed thanks to the hard work of the McGlothins, and now you can enjoy this piece of history, too.
Management/ Tripadvisor
Tours include seeing what was, at the time, a state-of-the-art house, equipped with lots of modern-day conveniences that were not present in most homes at the time. You'll walk through the opulent rooms decorated as if untouched by time. You will hear stories of the Faulkner family and the history of real, ordinary people doing extraordinary things. You will walk the garden and live a piece of history right here from Tennessee. And the tour guides are fantastic, infusing life and humor into every story.
If you get hungry during this historic home tour in Tennessee, you can take full advantage of the Victorian Tea Room for lunch. You do not even need a tour scheduled for the day to take part in a lovely dining experience. Walk-ins are always welcome, and the tea room is located in the visitor’s center.
Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens/ Google
If you want to make the most of your time at Falcon Rest, then check in to the Falcon Manor Bed and Breakfast. Stay in your own peaceful and historically decorated room. The property is quite relaxing in the overnight accommodations and well worth extending the stay.
Kevin Guenther/GoogleMaps

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The grounds are simply gorgeous.
Eddie's world View/GoogleMaps
Management/TripAdvisor
Charlien McGlothin/GoogleMaps
And the ornate details are incredible.
Phillip Burk/GoogleMaps
There are, however, some chilling tales of ghosts hanging around the mansion...
ldydynardr/ Tripadvisor
Some guests have been said to see a woman in the window peeking out from behind the curtains, and that's not the only creepy occurrence. If you are interested, make sure you tell your tour guide, and they will incorporate some of the ghost stories along your tour.

Touring this historic mansion in McMillville, Tennessee, is perfect for any history buff. Taking in a tour with a charismatic host, seeing the finely decorated property, walking through the garden, and even hearing a ghost story or two make for a great visit. Take a friend and have lunch, or bring the love of your life for an overnight stay – however you choose to enjoy this historical piece it is sure to leave an impression! To learn more about the property, tours, or any other information, please visit the Falcon Rest Mansion and Garden’s website.

Historic places in Tennessee are everywhere you turn, and often hiding in plain sight! Not far from the mansion is a nice little hike with incredible views and a waterfall.

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Historic Mansion In Tennessee

Jennifer | November 15, 2023

What are some of the most interesting historical sites in Tennessee?

Far too many to list, that's for sure! Tennessee sits right in the heart of American history, and with well over 200 years of statehood to its name, it's no surprise that the Volunteer State has a plethora of historical sites to explore as well. These historical sites across Tennessee encompass a wide spectrum of the state's cultural, political, and social history, offering visitors a deep dive into various facets of American (and local) heritage:

  • Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, Nashville: President Andrew Jackson's former estate, offering insights into early American history.
  • The Battle of Shiloh Site, Shiloh: The site of the Civil War's Battle of Shiloh, featuring monuments and preserved battlefield remnants.
  • Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, Chattanooga: Commemorates Civil War battles, with various sites and memorials.
  • Fort Donelson National Battlefield, Dover: Site of a significant Civil War battle, preserving fortifications, trenches, and historic artifacts.
  • Jack Daniel's Distillery, Lynchburg: A historical distillery offering tours detailing the production of Tennessee whiskey.
  • Graceland, Memphis: Elvis Presley's former home turned museum, showcasing his life and legacy.
  • National Civil Rights Museum, Memphis: Located at the Lorraine Motel, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated, it offers exhibits on the civil rights movement.
  • Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge: Site of the Manhattan Project during WWII, significant for its role in atomic history.
  • The Parthenon, Nashville: A full-scale replica of the ancient Greek structure, showcasing art and history.
  • President James K. Polk Home and Museum, Columbia: The ancestral home of President Polk, showcasing his life and political career.
  • Ryman Auditorium, Nashville: Formerly a church, it became the home of the Grand Ole Opry and holds significance in country music history.
  • Tennessee State Capitol, Nashville: An iconic building housing state government and featuring impressive architecture.
  • Tennessee State Museum, Nashville: Offers a comprehensive view of Tennessee's history, including Native American artifacts, Civil War relics, and more.

 

Tennessee's best museums are also a great place to start exploring the history of the region.

 

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Falcon Rest Mansion & Gardens, 2645 Faulkner Springs Rd, McMinnville, TN 37110, USA