Franklin has not been forgotten. Formerly known as the “sister town” of Black Diamond, Franklin’s town history is alive and thriving in memories that will be revisited with two upcoming Saturday tours.
On March 7 and April 4 at 10:00 a.m., those who register for guided trips to the former town site of Franklin will gather at the initial meeting place, Black Diamond Museum on Railroad Avenue. A caravan and/or carpool from the museum can then be organized. The day’s agenda includes a 31/2 mile car trip plus walks totaling two to five miles. The walks depend upon options selected independently by those in the group. They all walk from a parking area to the town site of Franklin. They can then take additional short walks to the Franklin Mine and Franklin Cemetery.
Franklin was a town that in its coal-mining hey-day was about the same in population as Black Diamond. It is one of several towns that disappeared as coal ran out or mining shut down. Franklin’s site and its surroundings include foundations of former town buildings and an old but very observable Franklin Cemetery. Within walking distance, the curious can also see evidence of where the Franklin Mine entrance was located, they can view a huge mine hoist, and they are able to peer down inside the mine because it is uniquely unusual for a mine shaft. It is vertical.
At various stops with the group, this unique Franklin Tour is brought to life with large photo displays and personal stories: What happened in this town where the group is currently standing? When did the town exist? Why did the mine shut down? What was women’s history in respect to their role in the town and the coal mining industry? A tour guide, speakers and helpers assist with the walks, displays and narration at various stops.
Top on the agenda is narrator Don Mason. For decades he has been called the mayor of Franklin. A Franklin aficionado, Mason’s curiosity was stoked years ago in Kent when he read a cemetery headstone that referred to the deceased as having died in Franklin. He wondered, “Where is Franklin?” After years of research and personal conversation, he is now Franklin’s most knowledgeable resource. Mayor Mason currently lives in Franklin’s sister city of Black Diamond where he is keeping memories of its sister intact.
Those interested in taking the Franklin tours can call 360-886-2142 for additional information or they can email museum@blackdiamondmuseum.org. There is no fee for the trip; donations are very welcome. Children, adults and history buffs are encouraged to attend. They should dress for cold, rainy and other winter weather conditions and wear sturdy shoes for muddy pathways. Unless it snows, the tours are a go. Restroom facilities are available at the museum, before and after the trip.
Franklin photos , property of Washington State Historical Society, were submitted by Sherrie Evans.
