Franklin - Huon Valley

Franklin was known as “The Settlement” (circa 1836) until a name change in 1850 recognised the efforts of the Governor John Franklin and his wife to encourage settlers to the area.

The attractive historic ambience of the town stands out through the buildings and the natural features of the Huon River and surrounding hills with farm orchards.
Throughout the town there are the remains of the 100 jetties in the town from the early 1900 and was one of the largest towns in Tasmania due to river transport.

The Franklin Lockup

This small double cell block is one of several 19th century cells of similar design that existed in the Huon Valley. It is likely that the lockup was built by Alexander Adams in July 1889 and designed as a portable holding sell for short-term use. It was later sold to the local mechanic who kept it as a storage shed at the rear of his garage.

Palais Theatre

Originally a smaller stone building in the 1860’sm, it was rebuilt in 1912 to accommodate the Mechanics Institute Library and expand social functions for the valley. By the 1930’s the film-showing era of talkies led to building improvements.
Hotel and Stables – One of six hotels it also served as a schoolroom and lodging. Post-Federation (1901) renamed The Federal, then The Franklin Tavern.

Franklin Working Waterfront Assoc Inc

a community driven initiative with the concept to develop a traditional port and marine precinct on the Huon river for shipwright activities, education and the construction and operation of a merchant trading shooner.. The construction of a traditional merchant trading schooner, restoration and servicing of classic timber vessels and the provision of ancillary shipwright services are key elements of this dynamic, inspirational social enterprise project.
The schooner, built of traditional methods, will carry passengers and local cargo enabling trade and tourism around Australia whilst retaining and teaching shipwright skills.