9/15/2004

Franklin Battlefield: a defender speaks up

There is a fine new - perhaps even inspiring - letter in defense of Franklin battlefield plans from a "mere" Civil war buff. Note this part, which seems to make discussion moot:

In reference to the current efforts to purchase the Country Club of Franklin, one member has suggested current club owner Ron Heller is bluffing when he says he will sell the land to a developer in two years. People like Heller do not bluff on business deals, even if history is something that is close to their heart.

In failing to adequately defend and explain their plans, by leaving the best public communications to "mere" buffs, the preservationists and their allies in government are sowing the seeds for permanent future discord over what is really a fait accompli.

The public handling of this battlefield acquisition has been a disaster. It is past time for damage control.