Franklin, State of, a part of present-day Tennessee that claimed to be a separate state during 1784–88. Because Congress did not recognize Franklin, it became known as the “lost state.” Franklin occupied what is now the northeastern tip of Tennessee. It extended from North Carolina westward to White's Fort (Knoxville) and southward to about the French Broad River. Legally, it was part of lands owned by North Carolina.
Franklin's organizers were members of the Watauga Association, a settlers' organization named after the Watauga River. In 1784 North Carolina passed an act ceding the region to the federal government. The Watauga group then formed Franklin; John Sevier was chosen governor. Rivals persuaded North Carolina to repeal the act of cession before Congress had accepted it. North Carolina authorities then moved to suppress the “state,” eventually succeeding.
