Nantahala Ranger Station

About forestry service, 28734, Franklin, NC, US, North Carolina

Franklin is a town in and the county seat of Macon County, North Carolina, United States. It is situated within the Nantahala National Forest. The population was reported to be 4,175 in the 2020 census, an increase from the total of 3,845 tabulated in 2010. The town developed around a 1,000-year-old platform mound, the center of the historic Cherokee town of Nikwasi. Franklin is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, specifically in relation to the Nantahala National Forest, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Appalachian Trail. The town and the surrounding area is rich in gems and minerals, and is known locally as the "Gem Capital of The World." == History == === Cherokee influence === Prior to the arrival of European settlers, the area was home to tribes within the Cherokee Nation. The Cherokee called this area Nikwasi, or "center of activity". Nikwasi was an ancient and important Cherokee town, centered around an ancient platform mound believed to be at least 1000-years-old. The Cherokee built their Council House on top of the mound. In the 21st century, the remains of Nikwasi Mound are still visible in downtown Franklin.