Macon County, North Carolina
Franklin Real Estate and Local Guide
County seat of Macon County set in the Nantahala Mountains of far western North Carolina, on the site of the historic Cherokee town of Nikwasi and long known for gem mining.
Living in Franklin
Promoted as the "Gem Capital of the World," with nearby ruby and sapphire mines and the twice-yearly Macon County Gemboree. Source: en.wikipedia.org
Homes in Franklin
Source: ACS 2023
What makes Franklin home
Nikwasi Mound
Ancient Cherokee platform mound believed to be at least 1,000 years old
Scottish Tartans Museum
Museum of Scottish tartans and Highland dress that has operated in Franklin since 1994
Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum
Free museum of gems and minerals housed in the old Macon County jail
Nantahala National Forest
National forest surrounding the town, with hiking, fishing, and the Appalachian and Bartram Trails nearby
Cullasaja Gorge waterfalls
Dry Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Cullasaja Falls line the Cullasaja River gorge along US 64