Tennessee is known for its deep roots, soulful music, and enduring Southern hospitality. Nowhere are these values better embodied than in the small city of Franklin, just south of Nashville, where historic preservation and modern luxury coexist with rare harmony. At the heart of this storied town stands Historic Oaklawn, located at 1051 W Main Street, an exquisite estate that offers a singular opportunity to own a piece of Franklin’s architectural and cultural legacy.
Built in 1873 by William and Ophelia House—the grandparents of iconic entertainer Minnie Pearl—this property isn’t just a home; it’s a living narrative. Spanning nearly 6,000 square feet, this 4-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence sits on an expansive 1.16-acre lot, one of the largest private parcels in downtown Franklin. Listed at $4,150,000, Oaklawn has been meticulously restored and modernized, offering high design and heritage in equal measure.
Let’s take a tour through this remarkable property and explore why Historic Oaklawn is a one-of-a-kind offering in today’s luxury real estate market.
An Iconic Home with Deep Tennessee Roots
There’s something truly special about a property where history is not only preserved but celebrated. Oaklawn stands as a testament to the enduring elegance of 19th-century architecture—from its classic wrap-around porch to the stately symmetry and handcrafted details that grace every square foot.
Built just eight years after the Civil War ended, the home holds the distinction of having belonged to the family of Minnie Pearl, a Grand Ole Opry legend and trailblazer in American entertainment. It’s a residence where history wasn’t just witnessed—it was made.
Today, under the stewardship of visionary owners, the estate has undergone a complete transformation, blending heritage architecture with elevated contemporary finishes in a way that honors the past while embracing the present.
A First Impression That Lasts
From the moment you arrive at 1051 W Main Street, you’re met with timeless curb appeal. The wraparound porch, a Southern signature, stretches across the front of the home, inviting moments of morning coffee, evening cocktails, and everything in between. The lush landscaping—meticulously curated—frames the home in natural beauty and adds an element of privacy rarely found just five blocks from Historic Franklin Square.
Step through the front door, and you’re greeted with 12-foot ceilings, heart of pine floors, and designer lighting fixtures that create an atmosphere of quiet luxury and warmth. The entrance sets the tone for the rest of the home: rich in detail, expansive in space, and intentional in design.
Living Spaces Crafted for Elegance
The interiors of Historic Oaklawn are breathtaking—not just for their scale but for the thoughtful balance between preservation and progress. Throughout the home, you’ll find original fireplaces anchoring key rooms such as the parlor, living room, music/office room, and the primary suite, each one restored to honor its original craftsmanship.
The formal dining room can comfortably host ten or more guests and is wrapped in bespoke designer wallpaper, creating a space that feels both grand and intimate. Whether hosting holiday dinners or milestone celebrations, this room provides the perfect backdrop for life’s most memorable moments.
A separate music or office space speaks to the home’s adaptability—a room ready to become a library, creative studio, or executive office depending on your vision.
A Kitchen That Inspires Culinary Artistry
The kitchen at Oaklawn is a culinary showpiece and a true reflection of modern luxury. It features:
- Commercial-grade appliances
- Dual ovens
- Dual dishwashers
- A 60” gas cooktop
- Expansive counter space and an oversized island
- Custom cabinetry and lighting
Whether you’re a passionate home cook or prefer to entertain with the help of a private chef, this kitchen is built for both ease and excellence.
Adjacent to the kitchen, a separate butler’s pantry offers additional functionality, equipped with its own refrigerator, ice maker, and abundant storage—a dream for entertainers who value seamless hosting.
The Primary Suite: A Sanctuary of Comfort
The main-floor primary suite is nothing short of a personal retreat. It incorporates many of the home’s original architectural details—like the fireplace and heart pine flooring—while offering completely reimagined bathroom luxury.
The en suite bath includes:
- Heated floors
- An oversized soaking tub
- An enormous walk-in shower
- Separate his and hers closets
- Designer tile and elegant lighting
It’s the kind of space where your morning routine becomes a ritual and your evenings end in indulgent relaxation.
Upstairs: Style Meets Function
The second level includes three spacious bedrooms, two of which feature private, renovated bathrooms, making this home well-suited for families or visiting guests. The layout ensures everyone has their own private haven, complete with natural light, hardwood floors, and upgraded finishes throughout.
From guest rooms to children’s quarters, every inch of the upper level has been designed with comfort, style, and practicality in mind.
Endless Possibilities on 1.16 Acres
One of the most extraordinary features of Historic Oaklawn is the sheer size of the lot. Spanning over 400 feet in depth, this 1.16-acre parcel opens up a world of possibilities:
- Add a custom pool
- Build a detached guest cottage or garage
- Create a formal garden or outdoor event space
In a downtown area where land is at a premium, this property offers room to expand, dream, and create something truly unique.
Modern Enhancements with Timeless Touches
In addition to its luxury aesthetic and preserved history, Oaklawn has been upgraded to meet the highest standards of modern living. The current owners spared no expense in integrating:
- Updated HVAC systems
- Modern plumbing and electrical
- Smart home features
- Energy-efficient windows and insulation
Every system has been reimagined for comfort and performance, ensuring this historic home lives as effortlessly as a new construction property.
An Iconic Location in Historic Franklin
Downtown Franklin is one of the South’s most beloved destinations, known for its charming boutiques, world-class dining, thriving arts scene, and rich Civil War history. Living at 1051 W Main Street means you’re just a short walk from:
- Historic Franklin Square
- Fine dining and shopping
- Live music venues and theaters
- Seasonal festivals and farmers markets
It’s the rare kind of neighborhood where you can live immersed in culture and community without sacrificing privacy or space.
Final Thoughts: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity
Rarely does a home so perfectly embody the soul of a region while offering every comfort imaginable. Historic Oaklawn at 1051 W Main Street is more than a luxury listing—it’s an opportunity to write your own chapter in one of Tennessee’s most iconic homes.
Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast, a history lover, or a discerning buyer in search of a forever home with true distinction, this property will exceed every expectation.
📍 Property Snapshot
- Address: 1051 W Main Street, Franklin, TN 37064
- Year Built: c.1873
- Square Footage: 5,937 sq ft
- Bedrooms: 4
- Bathrooms: 4.5
- Lot Size: 1.16 acres
- Price: $4,150,000
- Listing Agent: Wil Shults, C&S Residential – (615) 604-8239
- Photography: Elizabeth Scott – @615.media
- Staging: @candcdesign_co
- Listing: View on Realtor.com
- Video Tour: Watch Here
Schedule your private showing today, and experience firsthand what it means to live in Southern luxury, surrounded by history, heart, and home.
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