[4] Though early settlers included French, Acadian, German, Danish and Irish, the town's culture and architecture is heavily influenced by the unusually large numbers of English that chose to settle there after the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

This is reflected in the grand plantation homes and mansions they built in Franklin and the surrounding countryside.

Most of these magnificent structures are still standing and well preserved, giving Franklin its unique architectural flavor.

[9] During the Civil War, the Battle of Irish Bend, also known as Nerson's Woods, was fought near Franklin on April 14, 1863.

Four hundred men were killed or wounded in the confrontation, including Confederate Colonel James Reily, a factor in halting the Union drive to invade Texas.