When I first visited Carnton in Franklin (a suburb 20 minutes south of Nashville) many years ago, I knew I wanted to incorporate the stories of the people who had lived and worked at Carnton and who fought in the Civil War at the Battle of Franklin—both the Union and Confederate Armies. These amazing real men and women shaped their war-torn country in lasting and powerful ways.

I hope you enjoy this new series as much as I'm enjoying bringing it to you. If you ever get to Nashville, please set aside 2-3 hours to visit Carnton Plantation, an important site rich in American history.