The late Hank Williams’ historic Beechwood Hall home is in jeopardy of being demolished.
The home which was suspected to have inspired Hank’s “Mansion on a Hill” was originally built in the 1860s.
Constructed in 1856 in Franklin, Tennessee, the incredible structure is one of the only residences of its size and stature to survive the Civil War era; it was also in the area of the Battle of Franklin.
The main home dons over 3,000 square feet including three bedrooms, four bathrooms and a master suite, not to mention a massive sweeping spiral staircase. The property also includes a 12-stall stable, barn, caretaker homes, and other secondary cabins that have all been preserved for over 160 years.
Not only does the property contain Civil War significance, it’s also a key part of country music’s history.
In addition to being owned and cared for by Hank Williams in the final years before his death, the manor and its 700-odd acres was also purchased by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill.
The two used the property as the backdrop for the “My Little Girl” and “I Need You” music videos in 2006-2007.
Earlier this year, the McGraws sold the property including the Beechwood Hall structure to investment brokers who stated that they were focused on perseveration projects.
However, recent photos of the property show that it is slowly being de-constructed. Locals have even stated that in addition to being dismantled, the property is being neglected, with windows and doors leaving the home “open to the elements with zero protection.”
According to the Lovely Franklin webpage, the new owners are now making plans to have the home deemed “unsalvageable” with a proposal for a new house on the site.
And although the original is listed on the National Register of Historic Properties, local laws do not prevent the new plan from happening or fully protect the original structure.
Franklin residents and those who prioritize preservation have asked anyone who is willing to sign a petition to prevent the further deterioration of the property as well as its possible demolition, as well as forcing the new owners to honor preservation attempts or sell the property to an entity that will.
That being said, WZTV has contacted the new owners who have said that as of right now, they have no plans to immediately tear down the home, adding that they’re native Tennesseans who “fell in love” with the property.
But… that doesn’t necessary mean they want to spend the time and money to restore the crumbling Civil War-era home.
Stay tuned…
