Conference Destination 2026

Franklin Hosts Statewide Conference

In 2026, Indiana’s preservation conference heads to Franklin, where the city’s charm and vibrant downtown blend innovation with tradition.

Elks Lodge, Franklin. Photo by Lee Lewellen.

About FRANKLIN

In 2026, Indiana’s preservation conference visits Franklin for the first time! Explore the charm of its vibrant historic downtown and active preservation community during the annual conference from September 29 to October 2, 2026. From adaptively reused buildings like the Garment Factory and Johnson County Museum of History to restored landmarks like the iconic Artcraft Theatre and historic Johnson County Courthouse, the city showcases a blend of innovation and tradition.

Conference Locations & Parking

The Garment Factory at 101 E Wayne Street in downtown Franklin serves as conference headquarters. Details on parking and additional session locations to come.

Conference Schedule

See Conference Agenda.

Lodging

See Hotel Accommodations.

Partners

Three primary partners—Indiana Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, Indiana Landmarks, and Indiana University—stage the annual Preserving Historic Places conference. We’re grateful for the essential support the conference receives from generous sponsors.

Presenting Sponsor

Cornelius O'Brien Lecture Series

Sustaining Sponsors

 

Supporters

Frost Engineering & Consulting
Gray & Pape, Inc.
JQOL
Schmidt Associates, Inc.
Tunnel, Spangler, Walsh, & Associates

 

Friends

Archaeological Research Institute
Indiana Archaeology Council

 

In-Kind Sponsors

Franklin Heritage, Inc.
Johnson County Museum of History
Johnson County Public Library