The Mysterious Lost State of Franklin
Trace the creation and demise of the State of Franklin, a pivotal yet oft-forgotten post-Revolutionary War rebellion and attempted secession. When North Carolina ceded its western land to the U.S. government, some of the citizens of this ceded territory began their own government, calling themselves the State of Franklin. Even after North Carolina rescinded the cession, the State of Franklin continued to struggle for four chaotic years, finally ending in violence and a failed bid to become the country’s 14th state.
Two men would decide the fate of the State of Franklin. John Sevier, the Governor of Franklin, was a charismatic hero of the Revolution. He was also a ruthless land-speculator, obsessed with Westward expansion, who would see his dream realized at any cost. John Tipton, a wealthy land-owner himself, originally supported Franklin’s independence. But as the new government led to chaos, he vowed to bring an end to the fledgling state and rejoin North Carolina. Opposing Sevier at every turn, Tipton began a feud that would tear the region apart.
Filmed at several historic locations in East Tennessee, this story is told through scholarly interviews and re-enactments.
Tune in July 6 at 10:30 p.m. on WCVE PBS/WHTJ PBS
Hi Mark,
Thank you for your interest in our film. Two skilled artisans in this film are Mike Dahl and Steve Ricker (both on Facebook).
Mike Dahl was also our consultant on wardrobe. Ron Melton, Jr. (also on Facebook) was our consultant on guns.
National PBS just rebroadcast the film in mid-September and mid-November. I hope you had a chance to see it!
Best~
Debra Dylan
Associate Producer
Nolichucky Pictures
Oops, I missed it. Actually I just found out about it today, a week late. It looks like a great show. I'm becoming a Revolutionary period fan and try to find out as much as I can. I am a sculptor and working on pieces of the workers of the period. America was built on the labors of the workers. I look for anything that might shed light on the variety of skilled artisians for additional pieces. Is there a chance that it will be rebroadcast? If so when? Thank you for whatever information you can give me on this or any other period shows that may be shown. Mark J. Shively
Hello Mark,
Sorry you missed the program. It will air again down the road most likely, but I don't have any dates at this time. I don't see the full program online either. You could purchase the DVD from PBS here. Best regards.
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