Preserving Time: Capturing Historic Franklin, TN with Tintype Photography

Recently, I embarked on an intriguing journey - one that intertwines the past and present of Franklin, Tennessee through the lens of my large format camera. This adventure was sparked by a historic walking tour of downtown Franklin that I joined with my daughter's fourth grade class earlier this year. The experience left me inspired to delve deeper into the architectural and human stories embedded in Franklin’s oldest buildings.

Photo by Sarah White

The Williamson Herald recently featured this project, discussing how I'm documenting some of Franklin's historic sites using the tintype process. Read the full article here.

Using the historic wet plate collodion process, I capture images that appear as though they were taken in the 1860s, yet they feature the modern-day proprietors and caretakers of these buildings. The first of these sessions was held at the Hiram Masonic Lodge, the oldest public building in Franklin, still serving its original purpose.

A tintype taken recently showcasing the grandeur of the Masonic Hall including
a few of its current members, who breathe life into its storied walls.

Each building I photograph tells a unique story, not just through its bricks and mortar but through the people who inhabit and care for it today. For example, Clouston Hall, built in 1825 and almost lost to time, now thrives as an art gallery. This transformation showcases the delicate balance between preservation and modernization.

This project is more than just a series of photographs; it's a way for me to give back to the community that has given so much to us. By documenting these buildings and their stories, I create a lasting legacy that can be appreciated by generations of Franklinites and beyond.

Photo by Sarah White

Stay tuned as I continue this journey, capturing more of Franklin’s historic sites and their contemporary tales. Thank you for following along and supporting my work.

For those new to the tintype process or interested in my previous projects, feel free to explore earlier posts and galleries at BlakeWylie.com.

Photo by Sarah White