The 50th Annual Heritage Ball Shines a Light on History

Founded in 1967, the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County has worked tirelessly “to preserve and share regional history, local historic places and signature events that carry on our community traditions and cultural heritage through fundraising, research, advocacy, education, preservation and community engagement.” This work has included divisions such as: preservation of historic Main Street in Franklin, acquisition and restoration of the historic Franklin Theatre, development of the Franklin Grove Estate & Gardens — formerly O’More College of Design — and ongoing work on the History & Culture Center of Williamson County.

In the early days of the Heritage Foundation, it was determined that the nonprofit was in need of more funds to amplify its work in the community. Leaders agreed to create an event to raise crucial money for the still-new organization. Ruth Anne (Garrett) Hancock and Mark Garrett agreed to host the event at their historic Magnolia Hall home — making the location a big draw for close to 400 guests. Each couple was asked to donate $50 to the Heritage Foundation. The evening was deemed such a success that it stood to reason that the event would indeed return as an annual event. The following year, Marty Parish Ligon held a ball that was equally successful. While there was a brief two-year hiatus — with funds still being raised for the organization — the ball returned in 1976 and now holds the title of the largest black-tie event in Williamson County.

On a crisp October evening, the preservation-minded once again gathered together for an evening dedicated to raising funds for the Heritage Foundation of Williamson County. Entering the reception tent of the 50th annual Heritage Ball brought into sharp relief the elegance of what was to come. After the red carpet welcome, guests were awed by a decor palette of crisp white broken by floor-to-ceiling golden draperies. Within the dinner tent were crystalline chandeliers, beautifully adorned tables and at the center of the room, a white baby grand piano. The event decor and operation was orchestrated by Amos Gott with catering by Cater615.

Co-chairs Marilyn and Calvin LeHew and Sondra Morris — prominent leaders in the community and staunch preservationists — were on hand as guests filtered into the stunning space. Honorary Chairs Teresa and Danny Anderson and Marty Parish Ligon mingled with revelers and shared their passion for preservation. Once guests were seated, the magic of the evening continued as piano music wafted through the air. Dinner included a salad course of grilled zucchini and squash, an entrée featuring grilled beef tenderloin filet, a crispy onion garnish and a dessert course of celebration cake. As dinner was served, guests chatted brightly and speculated about the surprise guest entertainment for the evening. The crowd did not have to wait long before none other than chart-topping, award-winning Wynonna Judd took the stage with her husband Cactus Moser. Wynonna wowed the audience with a top-notch performance of incredible hits. 

“We pulled out all the stops at this year’s Heritage Ball as we celebrated 50 years as Williamson County’s top fundraiser,” said Bari Beasley, president and CEO of the Heritage Foundation. “It was a magical night celebrating the Foundation’s patrons, sponsors, volunteers and even our own homegrown country music legend Wynonna. This will be a hard year to beat!”