The Hermitage is a historical plantation that was once owned by the seventh President of the United States, Andrew Jackson. Located in Davidson County, Tennessee, The Hermitage was owned by President Jackson from 1804 until his death in 1845 and opened to the public in 1889. One of the oldest and largest historic site museums in the country, The Hermitage sprawls over 1,120 acres and is a National Historic Landmark.
Also known as the ‘Home of the People's President,' The Hermitage is run by the Andrew Jackson Foundation whose mission it is to preserve the home of the ex-President, educate the public about the life and heritage of the man and his home and inspire good citizenship. The beautifully preserved mansion is one of the most accurately preserved presidential homes in the country and receives more than a quarter million visitors every year.
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1. History
The Hermitage estate spans 1,120 acres (450 ha), which includes the original 1,050-acre (420 ha) tract of Jackson's plantation. The Hermitage itself was built in a quiet, seclude meadow chosen by Jackson's wife, Rachel and began life as a log cabin, which then developed into the beautiful home it is today. The first brick mansion was originally built in the Federal style, however, was severely damaged by a fire in 1834, and was rebuilt in the current Greek Revival style it is today. The 13-room mansion features distinct architectural details of this style, such as porticos with Corinthian and Doric columns, single fenestration windows, balconies with simple square balusters. The interior of the mansion features exquisite detailing and décor, including a grand elliptical cantilevered staircase with a mahogany handrail, Italian marble mantels, and crystal chandeliers.
The Hermitage mansion and grounds tell their own story Jackson's initial purchase of the estate and the building of the first log cabin on the site to the destruction and subsequent restoration of the mansion after a devastating fire. Each of rooms in the Hermitage mansion has their own tale from the story of slavery and how the Jacksons and their enslaved laborers lived closely together to life after the Civil War when the slaves were freed, and The Hermitage converted from plantation to farm.
2. Exhibits
The Hermitage Museum features several interesting exhibits each year, focusing on various aspects the history and heritage of the estate, the home, and the President and his life. Such exhibitions include the current display called “Andrew Jackson: Born for a Storm,” which provides an in-depth analysis of the life of Andrew Jackson, including his astounding victory at New Orleans. This state-of-the-art presentation showcases the inspiring story of Andrew Jackson's unparalleled rise from his humble beginnings as an orphan though his illustrious career as a General in the army to leadership as a President.
3. Gardens and Grounds
The Hermitage is surrounded by 1,120 acres (450 ha) of natural landscapes, which include beautifully manicured gardens in which Andrew Jackson used to escape to unwind. Designed in the 19th century, an inspiring one-acre garden lay adjacent to the Hermitage and was a favorite spot for both Andrew and Rachel Jackson. Some of the trees and flowering bulbs, such as peonies, old roses and irises were planted in Jackson's time and have been lovingly cared to and continue to flourish today. The tomb of Andrew Jackson also stands on the grounds of the Hermitage and can be visited by the public.
Interesting Facts
The Hermitage has made its debut in some films and books, including the 1955 Disney film Davy Crockett, King of the Wild Frontier, and F. Scott Fitzgerald's unfinished novel, The Love of the Last Tycoon.
4. Plan Your Visit
The Hermitage is located at 4580 Rachel's Lane, just 20 minutes from downtown Nashville and five miles from the Nashville International Airport. The Museum has a designated parking lot at the Andrew Jackson Visitor Center for both motor vehicles and buses. The Hermitage is open every day of the year (except Thanksgiving and Christmas) from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm and visitors can explore the museum and grounds on self-guided walks or enjoy an interpreter-led guided tour for a nominal fee.
The Museum Store offers a wealth of fantastic gifts, trinkets, and mementos, including books, collectibles, home décor, gourmet gifts, ornaments and more. The Hermitage is also home to the Kitchen Cabinet Café, a casual café where visitors can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, homemade sandwiches, salads, decadent desserts and drinks against a backdrop of beautiful views.
4580 Rachel's Lane, Nashville, Tennessee 37076, Phone: 615-889-2941
Plan Your Trip
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