The Historic McPhail-Cliffe Office

Tucked in the heart of historic Franklin, the McPhail-Cliffe Office is one of the town’s most charming treasures. Built around 1815–1817 by Scottish-born physician Dr. Daniel McPhail, the humble brick building has witnessed more than 200 years of Tennessee history.

Originally a doctor’s office, it welcomed generations of townspeople seeking medical care in Franklin’s early days.

During the Battle of Franklin on November 30, 1864, Union General John M. Schofield established his first headquarters at the Cliffe property as his troops prepared for one of the Civil War’s bloodiest battles.

Decades later, the little building became the law office of Captain Thomas P. Henderson, who added another remarkable chapter to its history. After World War I, Henderson joined a daring group of Tennesseans who traveled to Holland in January 1919 and attempted to kidnap the exiled German Kaiser Wilhelm II, intending to bring him back to Paris to face justice. The extraordinary mission failed, but became one of the more colorful footnotes of World War I.

Today, the little brick building remains a treasured reminder of Franklin’s past. Its weathered bricks have witnessed frontier medicine, Civil War history, and even a plot to capture a Kaiser.

Though modest in size, few buildings capture the enduring charm—and surprising history—of old Franklin quite like the McPhail-Cliffe Office.