In November of 1864 the Civil War is close to its end. But a fierce battle is about to take place in Franklin, Tennessee, pitting loyal Confederate soldiers against a staunch Union Army that greatly outnumbers them. An outlaying plantation named Carnton belongs to John and Carrie McGavock. General Nathan Bedford Forrest orders the house and grounds to become a hospital for the anticipated wounded and dying. Mrs. McGavock is reclusive because she grieves for her three children, dead in the recent past. She is unwilling to turn her home into a respite for any army, but the General is firm in his demand.