

Franklin Antique Mall: A 12,000-Square-Foot Journey Through Time
In the heart of historic downtown Franklin, Tennessee, the Franklin Antique Mall isn’t just a retail space—it’s a living archive of the region’s history. Housed in a massive, 12,000-square-foot building that once served as the town’s flour mill and ice house, this landmark has been a cornerstone of the local community for over 45 years.
Whether you are a seasoned collector or a curious traveler, a walk through these doors is a walk through decades of Southern heritage.
A Legacy of Preservation
The mall was founded in 1979 by Joan and Archie Glenn, who saw potential in the then-dilapidated historic ice house. Today, the family legacy continues under the leadership of their daughter, Amanda Pitts. This continuity of ownership has preserved a “small-town” feel despite the mall’s impressive scale.
“The workmanship in these pieces is so beautiful. They just don’t put the time and detail into things like they used to. Each piece relates to an era in time and tells a story.” — Amanda Pitts, Owner
What to Expect Inside
With over 60 independent dealers, the inventory is constantly rotating, ensuring that no two visits are ever quite the same. The layout is famously labyrinthine, encouraging a slow, deliberate “treasure hunt.”
The Collection Highlights:
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Period Furniture: From 18th-century English tables to mid-century modern accents and rustic farmhouse decor.
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Unique Memorabilia: Civil War-era currency and artifacts, vintage vinyl records, and rare advertising signs.
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Curated Decor: High-end glassware (Waterford and Wedgwood), vintage chandeliers, and hand-painted Japanese kimonos.
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Novelty & Contemporary: A unique blend of true antiques and modern home goods to help bridge the gap between “museum quality” and “daily living.”
Planning Your Visit
Located just two blocks off the iconic Main Street, the mall is a perfect anchor for a day of exploring downtown Franklin.
| Information | Details |
| Address | 251 2nd Ave South, Franklin, TN 37064 |
| Phone | (615) 790-8593 |
| Mon – Sat | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Parking | Free street parking and nearby public garages on 2nd and 4th Avenue. |
Pro-Tips for Shoppers:
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Give Yourself Time: Most visitors recommend at least 60–90 minutes to see every nook and cranny.
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Check the Corners: Some of the best finds (and the mall’s original hand-painted sign) are tucked away in the back rooms.
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Celebrity Sightings: Keep your eyes peeled; locals and country music stars like Taylor Swift and Miley Cyrus have been known to browse the aisles here.
The Franklin Antique Mall remains a testament to the town’s commitment to its past while providing a vibrant, eclectic shopping experience for the present. It’s more than a store—it’s a piece of Franklin’s soul.

