Franklin, NC the Real Gem of the Smokies

If the beautiful scenery and Southern hospitality aren’t enough, Franklin, NC boasts rich history and unique museums. The Franklin Gem & Mineral Museum is situated in the “old jail”. Among the thousands of specimens of native and foreign stones is the 2 ¼ pound ruby pulled from a local ruby mine in the Cowee Valley. The Ruby City Gem Museum has a unique black light display and also is home to the “World’s Largest Sapphire”, a 385-pound gem as well as a 162-carat ruby found in a local mine. Looking to explore your roots in Franklin? Then head to the Macon County Historical Museum, where you can investigate your ancestors and add to your family tree. If you’re of Scottish ancestry, you must visit the Scottish Tartans Museum that not only displays the Scottish Tartans, but is a wealth of lore about the Scots history, culture, dress and migration.