The Hermitage in Nashville: Less Hermits, More History (Unless You Count Jackson's Ghost)
So you're headed to Nashville, buckle up for boots, barbecue, and enough country music to make your head twang. But hold on to your Stetson, because Nashville offers more than just honky-tonks and hot chicken. There's a healthy dose of history too, served up with a side of Southern charm at the Hermitage.
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| What is The Hermitage In Nashville Tn |
But First, Who's This Hermitage Character?
Nope, not some grizzly old dude living in a cave (although Nashville does have its fair share of characters). The Hermitage was the home of Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States. Nicknamed "Old Hickory" for his toughness, Jackson was a real firecracker of a leader. He wasn't afraid of a good brawl (or duel!), and he definitely wasn't afraid to expand the US borders all the way to Florida (sorry, Seminoles).
From Log Cabin to Mansion: Jackson's digs
The Hermitage wasn't always the grand estate it is today. Jackson started out living in a humble log cabin. Think more Davy Crockett than Downton Abbey. But eventually, the president in him craved an upgrade. So, he built a fancy two-story brick mansion that wouldn't be out of place on an episode of MTV Cribs (if MTV Cribs existed in the 1800s).
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Fun Fact: The mansion even saw a bit of reality show drama. A fire ripped through part of it in 1837, forcing some major renovations.
A Look at Life on the Plantation (Minus the Filters)
The Hermitage wasn't just Jackson's crib. It was a sprawling plantation with a whole lot going on. You can tour the mansion and get a glimpse into Jackson's life, from his fancy furniture to his surprisingly large collection of cheese graters (turns out, Old Hickory loved cheese!).
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
But here's the honest truth: The plantation also relied on enslaved people for labor. The Hermitage doesn't shy away from this dark part of history. You can visit the slave quarters and learn about the lives of the people who worked the land.
Beyond the Mansion: Exploring the Hermitage
There's more to the Hermitage than just four walls. Explore the beautiful gardens, wander through the fields, and maybe even pretend you're a Secret Service agent keeping an eye out for rogue squirrels (presidential security is a tough job, folks). You can also visit the Hermitage Church, where Jackson himself used to pray (though we can't guarantee he never dozed off during a particularly long sermon).
Tip: Make mental notes as you go.
Feeling adventurous? Long Hunter State Park is right next door, offering hiking trails, fishing, and a chance to commune with nature (without the threat of encountering any presidential ghosts).
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So You Wanna Be a Hermitage Tourist? How To...
1. How to Get There: The Hermitage is located about 10 miles east of downtown Nashville. You can drive, take a taxi, or hop on a rideshare app.
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2. How Much Does it Cost? Tickets vary depending on the season and what's included, but generally expect to pay around $20 for adults.
3. How Long Does it Take to Tour? Plan on spending 2-3 hours to explore the mansion, grounds, and exhibits.
4. How to Dress? Nashville weather can be unpredictable. Wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for both sunshine and rain.
5. How to Avoid Hauntings? No guarantees here, but maybe skip telling ghost stories in the slave quarters. Just a thought.
So there you have it! The Hermitage: a fascinating glimpse into American history with a healthy dose of Southern charm (and maybe a pinch of the supernatural). Now get out there and explore, y'all!
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