Milky Way Farm: A Sweet Treat in the South
Milky Way Farm, founded by the creator of Mars Inc. and the Milky Way candy bar, Frank C. Mars, is a breathtaking piece of history located just off Highway 31 in Lynnville, TN. A grand archway bearing the farm’s name invites visitors to tour the grounds. Frank Mars fell in love with the charming South after establishing an office for Mars Candies in Nashville. He then purchased the fertile land on which Milky Way Farm was erected. Mars’ original Clubhouse burned to the ground months after its debut; however, a new and improved 20-bedroom, 14-bath Manor House was constructed which still stands today. Like the Milky Way candy bar, covered in chocolate with a nougat center, the Manor House, or Clubhouse, is alluring on the outside and even more delightful on the inside.
A winding white picket fence leads to the Manor House. When crossing the threshold, wooden floors creak underfoot resurrecting the manor’s past residents. The immediate ballroom evokes Gatsby-like imagery in the imaginations of guests. One can easily picture the elaborate events that have taken place in this magnificent mansion and feel connected to those who partook. Directly adjacent to the ballroom is the dining room. The dining room sports a massive table that was built indoors because it was too big to move through door frames; the 40-seat table measures 28’ X 12’. Hovering above this table on the ceiling are beams made of American Chestnut. This is particularly special because there are no American Chestnuts today due to the blight that wiped out the species at the beginning of the 20th century. Through his craftsmanship, Frank Mars unknowingly preserved history.
Visitors can investigate the regal bedrooms and contemplate possible scenarios that have occurred over time. Secret doors and passageways fascinate tourists; a mysterious air swaddles the Manor House making it even more seductive. When inside, there is a disconnect from reality because the mansion is that magical. Hours can quickly evaporate while exploring, but the Manor House is not the only reason Milky Way Farm is a special attraction.
At one time, the farm hosted approximately 30 barns; these facilities were used for breeding prize-winning thoroughbred horses and Hereford cattle. Most of the barns have become merely a memory, but some glorious barns still stand. Visitors can tour these barns or book them for weddings.
Cut and run off 31 and connect with history and nature by visiting Milky Way Farm. It is just one of many tourist attractions Pulaski has to offer.
More information on their website: https://milkywayfarm.org/
