Saturday, August 23, 2025

State of Franklin - August 23, 1784


August 23, 1784 that four counties in northeast Tennessee declared their independence from North Carolina to become the "State of Franklin."  Within a few months, four other counties joined.  All of the settlers in the area did not agree with secession from North Carolina, and even today, many history buffs in the area consider themselves as either "Tiptonites" or "Franklinites."  This new state only lasted around four years and eventually the area became a part of Tennessee. 

We have over 30 documents in our collection here at the archives that bear the heading, "State of Franklin."  These have been digitized and may be viewed on our website at: https://wctnarchives.org/state-of-franklin-documents/

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