In 2025, the City re-opened the rehabilitated the 1935 Tennessee Walking Horse show barn for use as a special events facility. The 1889 Hayes House (NRHP 2006) within the park’s boundary has undergone a $750,000 rehabilitation, funded by the Friends of Franklin Parks, for use as an educational center, art gallery, and non-profit offices. Preservation of Harlinsdale Farm also benefited from contributions from the Land Trust for Tennessee and others.55 The last remaining power house is located at Harlinsdale next to the Main Barn. The building has experienced significant damage due to strong storms. The building is included within the Parks Department Master Plan for rehabilitation and reconstruction. 55 Bibb 2025; Franklin Parks 2006; Shands 2025; West 2018b. THE HARLINSDALE TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE SHOW BARN REOPENED AFTER A MULTI-YEAR RESTORATION EFFORT, 2025 (SOURCE: MASTERS 2025) THE THOMAS SHUTE HOUSE IS PRESERVED AND A PARK IS ENVISIONED Established in the 1840s and home to several prominent residents over the years, Creekside is centered on the Greek Revival-style Thomas Shute House (NRHP 1988) on Franklin Road (U.S. 31). In 2022, developers planned to construct more than 100 dwelling units on the 4.8-acre property surrounding the historic home, located between Franklin and Cool Springs. In 2024, a newly formed preservation non-profit, Preservation Partners, partnered with the City to purchase the 45-acre property to prevent inappropriate development and preserve the scenic gateway along Franklin Road into the historic downtown. In 2024, the City’s Parks Department developed a master plan to utilize the property for open spaces and greenways connecting to the trails and other historic sites in the city.56 Trail Expansions that Connect Historic Sites and Parks The friend of Franklin Parks Trails Committee works to expand trail connections throughout the City. Efforts of the group include many projects that enhance the existing trails system and the addition of new trails and connections to the system. Continuous efforts toward expanding the sidewalk and multi-use network throughout the city has made key connections to historic sites and parks. A pedestrian bridge over the Harpeth River connects neighborhoods to Harlinsdale Park while a sidewalk was added along Franklin Road between downtown and the Factory and Harlinsdale Park. Work continues in this area through the City and Friends of Franklin Parks. 56 Bibb 2025; Franklin Parks 2024. 93
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