Janis J. Martin

Cell (615) 478-6906

Work (615) 778-1818

Janis@JanisJMartin.com

1764 Saundersville Rd.

Hendersonville, TN

Location

"The Golden Era" Estate

The Golden Era Estate in Hendersonville, Tennessee home of William Lee Golden of the legendary Oak Ridge Boys.  Formerly known as “Pilot's Knob” is documented as the oldest brick home in Tennessee.

Historic in structure and full of Tennessee history the Federal-style structure was built in 1786 on a military outpost by Revolutionary War Captain James Franklin. Captain Franklin was awarded the property in gratitude for his military service. Their gravesites are just beyond the present property line in the backyard. Their son, Isaac, later built and lived in the Mansion at Fairvue in nearby Gallatin.

During the Civil War, the plantation became a station camp for the confederate soldiers. When word came that Union soldiers were approaching, the plantation occupants buried their gold and silver before leaving.  During extensive renovations in 1976, over $12,000 of pre-Civil War gold coins were discovered in the basement. Four years later, William Lee Golden purchased the home. He vowed, as its present caretaker to try to put the gold back into the home. He feels he has been faithful to the oath.

Over the years, two tornados have struck the stately home. Rebuilding and renovations by the Golden's took place after a direct hit by the category 4 tornado in 2006. James Wallace was commissioned to restore the home to its original grandeur.  Bricks of the same age and likeness were located and shipped in. While you will see modern updates, the building is faithful to the original architecture and aesthetics.

“This is a peaceful place,” says Golden, the bearded “Mountain Man” of music. It encourages relaxation and creativity. It's full of memories for him but now it's time to pass it on to others to make their memories.  


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