Get To Know Tennessee’s Presidential Homes
Article by Ed Atlas
Photography by Provided
Originally published in Franklin Lifestyle
The Volunteer State is home to three presidential homes and historic sites. Individually and collectively, they provide context to the life and times of the men who lived there and how they helped shape American history. All that, and they’re a lot of fun, too!
The Hermitage
Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is highly regarded as one of the nation’s finest presidential sites. From the mansion to the surrounding grounds, it is opulent in every way. The nation’s seventh president was also a businessman and military leader and The Hermitage was prominent in each of those endeavors. Operated by the Andrew Jackson Foundation, The Hermitage hosts numerous historical and social events throughout the year and there are dedicated exhibits that address The Hermitage’s legacy of slavery.
4580 Rachel’s Lane | Nashville
Thursday – Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
TheHermitage.com
President James K. Polk Home and Museum
The President James K. Polk House is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, mere steps from shops, restaurants and the historic Maury County Courthouse. Polk lived here from 1818 – 1824. Visitors will gain an understanding about how the ambitious young lawyer transitioned to politics and eventually, as the nation’s 11th President, led the greatest expansion in territory in U.S. history. The site also includes a visitor’s center called, “The Sisters’ House.”
301 West Seventh Street | Columbia
Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
JamesKPolk.com
The Andrew Johnson National Historic Site
Planning a road trip to East Tennessee or the Carolinas? Then consider adding Greeneville and the Andrew Johnson National Historic Site to your itinerary. There are actually three buildings, all within walking distance to downtown. The Visitor Center adjoins the presidential museum and Johnson’s original tailor shop. Then you’ll visit The Early Home where he raised his young family, and The Homestead on Main Street where the 17th president lived before and after ascending to office.
101 North College Street | Greeneville
Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m.
nps.gov/anjo/planyourvisit/index.htm
