Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, the Town of Franklin, North Carolina was founded in 1855 and rests in the heart of Cherokee Indian country. It is the Macon County seat and was named after an eighteenth century political mogul, Jesse Franklin. Strong influences from the mighty Cherokee nation are found throughout the town including streets with names like Wayah, Ulco, Iotla and Watauga reflecting Indian heritage. Mining began here in the 1800's with progress following. Franklin was a rail town of substantial commerce.

Evidence of the bustling community's growth is found in the census figures. In 1890 the population was only 281, now it is over 3,600.  Macon County, with much of its' 516 square miles located in National Forest land, touts a population of just 32,395 residents as of the 2005 census.

The relaxed, friendly atmosphere causes visitors to return and make Macon County a permanent home: a never-ending vacation.

Ideally situated just 90 minutes from Asheville, 2 hours from Atlanta, 2 hours from Knoxville, and 2 hours from Greenville, Franklin is fast-becoming the location of choice for those seeking retirement, recreational or permanent homes. As technology grows, so do the number of people tele-commuting and operating their businesses from their homes in Franklin.

Nestled in the Nantahala National Forest and with the Pisgah National Forest to its east and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to its north, the Town of Franklin is well known for its magnificent beauty, charming accommodations, and limitless shopping opportunities. Famous attractions include numerous gem mines, the Whistle Stop Antique and Artisan Mall and the Scottish Tartan Museum.

The surrounding mountains offer countless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The beauty found in these glorious mountains is indescribable and something that will literally grab a hold of your soul. Dry Falls (left) and Cullasaja Falls (below) are two of the more spectacular tourist destinations in Macon County.

With the abundance of recreational activities available, residents and visitors to Franklin always have much from which to choose. There are championship golf courses, mountain bike and hiking trails, a fabulous Greenway enjoyed by walkers and bikers alike, and rivers and lakes full of fish. Macon County also boasts incredible waterfalls and fall foliage. Every October, Macon County is transformed into a beautiful oasis with annual leaf season at its peak.

Every Saturday evening from Memorial Day through October 31, the town of Franklin hosts "Pickin on the Square", a musical event which is presented at no charge. Just bring a lawn chair and come sit a spell in our quaint, town-square. The event generally begins at 6:30 PM with open mike, followed at 7:30 by a feature band.

Wildlife is a big reason why people come to the mountains to live and vacation. Approximately two-thirds of the land in Macon County is United States Forest Service. The area is home to bear, deer, turkey, coyote, raccoon "coon", countless species of bird and other exotic forest fauna.