Two pieces of McGavock family history have returned to Two Rivers Mansion in Donelson, thanks to a donation from the Battle of Franklin Trust. More Local Living News
The Friends of Two Rivers, the nonprofit organization that manages Two Rivers Mansion and nearby Stone Hall, received an 1855 portrait of five-year-old Frank McGavock and an olive spoon that belonged to his parents, David and Willie McGavock. The spoon was given to the couple as a wedding gift from a cousin.
The items were donated from the collection at Carnton, another historic home built by the McGavock family and operated by the Battle of Franklin Trust.
“This generous donation from Battle of Franklin Trust’s Carnton House, also built by the McGavock family, is reflective of the direction we’re headed to become an interpretive house museum,” Friends of Two Rivers President Jeff Syracuse said in a release. “As we continue the historic and cultural preservation work, we are focused on bringing the past to the present and sharing stories about all those that called Two Rivers home.”
Representatives from both organizations participated in the handoff, including Battle of Franklin Trust Director of Historic Sites and Collections Joanna Stephens and Friends of Two Rivers Tour and Education team members Emily Nix and Gail Jo Jansen.
Friends of Two Rivers Founder and President Emeritus Phil Claiborne joined Nix in hanging Frank McGavock’s portrait in the mansion’s Ladies Parlor, where his mother Willie’s 1850 wedding portrait is also displayed.
You can see the new additions through this season’s guided tours, now in full swing. Dubbed “Spirit of Two Rivers Historic Tours,” the expanded guided tour program runs through October 28, 2026. Tours are offered Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and noon. These educational programs are designed to spark curiosity, connect visitors with Nashville’s rich local history, and give guests a hands-on experience with the past.
For tickets, membership information, and full event details, visit www.friendsoftworivers.com.
Two Rivers Mansion is located at 3130 McGavock Pk, Nashville.
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