Open Everyday at 11am Bar 317-738-9668 Carry Out 317-738-9991
99 N. Main St., Franklin, IN 46131
Menu
Open Everyday at 11am Bar 317-738-9668 Carry Out 317-738-9991
99 N. Main St., Franklin, IN 46131
We know that every dish on our menu sounds tempting, so if you are having trouble choosing which dish to order, we highly recommend that you try our specialty chicken wings, sandwiches, and pizzas. You can never go wrong with our food! After all, many of our customers regularly claim we have the best chicken wings, sandwiches, and pizza in Franklin. Once you’ve decided which dish to order, be sure to check out our extensive Beer and Wine List to choose a beverage that perfectly matches your meal.
We also offer Daily Specials, so there is always a reason to keep coming back for more. Drop by The Willard today and enjoy what one of the best and most well known restaurants in Franklin has to offer!
The story of The Willard begins with the original brick house, constructed in 1860 by William and Cynthia King McCaslin. At the time, the land was part of a 160-acre grant awarded to Cynthia’s father, George King, on October 17, 1822—making this site one of the earliest settled properties in the region.
The McCaslin home stood out for its sturdy brick construction, an uncommon and durable choice in a time when most homes in the area were built of wood. Designed with elegance and craftsmanship, the house featured a curved staircase and a marble fireplace mantle—fixtures that still greet guests today as part of The Willard’s historic charm.
This original structure serves as the architectural heart of The Willard, anchoring the modern building with deep roots in Franklin’s past. It remains a symbol of the area’s early settlement and the McCaslin family’s legacy.
After the passing of Cynthia King McCaslin, the original lady of the house, William McCaslin remarried Marguerite Mullen. This marked the beginning of a new era for the home, as the couple continued to live in the stately brick residence. Marguerite, along with her niece Marguerite McCullough, maintained the household after William’s death in 1883. For nearly four decades, the women preserved the home’s integrity, maintaining the architectural beauty and family heritage within its walls.
In 1922, the property was sold to Eliza Patterson Willard and her niece and nephew, Mr. and Mrs. Will Judah, for the sum of $11,000—a significant investment at the time. But the new owners saw more than an old home; they saw potential for something bigger. They undertook extensive renovations, reimagining the historic McCaslin residence as a full-scale hotel. Rather than demolish the original brick structure, they built around it, integrating its character and craftsmanship into the new design.
With its expanded layout and upgraded interior, the property officially became known as The Willard Hotel. This transformation not only honored the new owners' name but also signaled a shift in purpose—from private family home to public gathering space. Though updated for hospitality, care was taken to preserve key architectural features like the curved staircase and marble fireplace that still define the space today.
With its expanded layout and upgraded interior, the property officially became known as The Willard Hotel. This transformation not only honored the new owners' name but also signaled a shift in purpose—from private family home to public gathering space. Though updated for hospitality, care was taken to preserve key architectural features like the curved staircase and marble fireplace that still define the space today.
In a fascinating twist of fate, both Mrs. Willard and Mrs. Judah were known supporters of the Prohibition Movement, which aimed to ban the production and sale of alcohol across the United States. Their commitment to this cause adds a curious layer to The Willard’s story—especially considering the building’s later life as a bar and restaurant known for its wide selection of beers and spirits.
With each new owner, The Willard was more than preserved—it was reimagined with care and respect for its past. From its beginnings as a quiet homestead in 1822 to its transformation into a vibrant hotel and now a cherished community hub, The Willard has remained a living part of Franklin’s story.
After years of dormancy, The Willard underwent a much-needed revival in the late 20th century. In the 1980s, it was purchased by John Limp and John Wright, who saw the potential to restore the historic property as a pub and eatery. They focused on preserving the building’s original charm while making it a vibrant space for the community.
During the refurbishment, great care was taken to maintain the historical fixtures that defined the home’s character. The original curved staircase in the foyer and the stunning marble fireplace mantle in the main dining area were preserved as key features, retaining the rich legacy of the McCaslin family home. The result was a successful blend of history and modern comfort, creating an atmosphere that honors the past while offering a welcoming place for dining and gathering.
From 1990 to 2014, The Willard was under the ownership of Bob Schofield and his partner, the late Don Henry. During their tenure, Bob and Don further solidified the restaurant’s place as a beloved local institution. They continued to honor the building’s rich history while ensuring it remained a vibrant and welcoming spot for the community.
In 2014, Bob and his wife, Alexa, took full stewardship of the property, preserving its historical charm while continuing to offer the exceptional food and atmosphere that had made The Willard a Franklin favorite.
In 2015, Bob and Alexa passed the torch to their son, Tony Priola, and his wife, Emily. The Priolas, committed to upholding the legacy of great food, good drinks, and a welcoming environment, continue to uphold the tradition of The Willard as a cherished local gathering place. The Schofield legacy lives on through their stewardship, ensuring that The Willard remains a historic landmark for generations to come.
Today, The Willard remains a cornerstone of Franklin’s social scene, known for its exceptional food, warm atmosphere, and historic charm. Whether you’re dining with family, meeting friends, or enjoying a night out, The Willard offers a welcoming environment where history and hospitality come together.
Indulge in our signature pizzas, crispy hot wings, and delicious sandwiches—favorites that keep guests coming back time and time again.
Indulge in our signature pizzas, crispy hot wings, and delicious sandwiches—favorites that keep guests coming back time and time again.
Relax with a beautiful view of the Johnson County Courthouse, adding a picturesque backdrop to your dining experience.
We’re proud to be a family-friendly, smoke-free establishment, making it the perfect place for all ages to gather and enjoy.
The Willard isn’t just a place to dine; it’s a destination where friends, families, and neighbors gather to share good food, great drinks, and lasting memories. Whether you’re visiting for a casual meal, a night out with friends, or a special occasion, we invite you to experience the warmth and charm of this historic landmark.
99 N. Main St., Franklin,
IN 46131
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