Carnton Mansion was built in 1830 by Randall McGavock, a former mayor of Nashville, and a very wealthy and prominent Tennessean. For thirty years, the house was a place of joy and happiness. All that changed during the Civil War. During this time, the estate saw more pain and suffering than anyone should ever have to see.

The Battle of Franklin was a very important battle of the Civil War. Fought in late 1864, it was tragic because of the huge amount of casualties both sides suffered. Many battlefields are said to be haunted, and this one is no exception. As the battles raged on within sight of the house, many of the wounded made their way to the mansion, walking or crawling if able, or being carried. John McGavock was a very kind man, and he and his family did all they could to help those who came wounded. Even so, many soldiers died. It's been said that there were so many dead bodies, they had to be stacked up to four feet high due to lack of room. All in all, it was a very tragic time in Carnton's history, and in the history of this nation.

Today, Carnton Mansion is open to the public to visit with sight seeing tours. Not surprisingly, many ghosts have been seen or heard there. The most prominent seems to be the ghost of Confederate General Patrick Cleburne, who died in the battle. Visitors have reported seeing him marching around the grounds, and even heard the loud marching sounds of his boots. Members of the staff and visitors have both seen him.

In addition to the General, there are also reports of gun fire and cannon fire being heard, as though the battle is still raging, almost 140 years later. Other Civil War soldiers' apparitions have been seen as well. When one visits the mansion, you definitely get the sense that something is there, that it is an important place. Walking through the Confederate Cemetery is a very moving experience, and if you visit, definitely go through the cemetery.

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