Tours at the Sandford Duncan Inn will begin April 1 in Franklin, Kentucky. The site was once a 300-acre farm home to the Sandford Duncan family and served as a stop for stagecoaches on what now serves as Highway 31-W. Sitting only a few miles from the Tennessee state line, the Inn, which was built in 1819, served as a resting spot for weary travelers.
It was also a popular spot because of the duels which were fought near the property.
Tour guests can visit the Sandford Duncan Inn, see a traditional dueling pistol up close, walk the short distance to the property’s cemetery and stop by the welcome center for more information about the grounds.
Dueling demonstrations are conducted on Fridays at noon.
The Inn’s most famous known visitor was United States President Andrew Jackson. Other famous patrons included Sam Houston – who served as governor of both the state of Tennessee and Texas, and the famous Swedish opera singer, Jenny Lind.
“A tour of the inn is a great opportunity for history buffs,” said Amy Ellis, executive director of Simpson County Tourism – managing agency for the site. “If you are looking for a place to take your children during spring break, this is a fun and educational experience.”
The Inn is located on the Linkumpinch Farm, where duels were fought in the 1800’s. Sam Houston was one of the most prominent individuals to duel at the site.
Nicky Hughes is director of the Inn and serves as the master dueling demonstrator and Inn Keeper.
The grounds of Sandford Duncan Inn are open for public tours beginning April 1 and running through Oct. 31. Operating hours are Monday-Saturday from 10am until 4pm and closed Wednesdays and Sundays. Admission is $5.
The Inn is located one mile south of Exit 2 on I-65 at 5083 Nashville Road. Future community events sponsored by Simpson County Tourism Commission are posted on the official website www.visitfranklinky.com. For more information contact the Simpson County Tourism office at 270-586-3040.
-submitted by Simpson County Tourism Commission
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