Farm Buildings
Remnants of farm buildings used on Jackson’s plantation lie in the cotton fields just beyond the First Hermitage. These include the cotton gin house and press.
First Hermitage
The First Hermitage comprised the buildings that served as Jackson’s original farmhouse and log kitchen where the family lived until completion of the mansion. Eventually converted to slave quarters, these buildings tell two sides of a story for visitors to The Hermitage.
Garden
This one-acre garden adjacent to the Hermitage and designed in the 19th century was a favorite spot of both Andrew and Rachel Jackson. Today, its beauty has only continued to blossom.
Hermitage Church
Built in 1824 with funds donated by Jackson and others, this neighborhood church is where, in 1838, Jackson fulfilled a promise made to his wife Rachel and became a member. Today, it is still utilized for special events and services.
Landscape
The grassy fields and open skies of his home must have served as Jackson’s inspiration when he aptly named it “hermitage,” meaning “retreat.” Anyone who visits these peaceful surroundings today will certainly agree.
Outbuildings
The original property owner Nathaniel Hays and subsequent owners Andrew Jackson and Andrew Jackson Jr. directed the construction of dozens of outbuildings necessary to operate the 1,000-acre cotton plantation. Remains of several of these, including the yard cabin and ice house can be explored by visitors to The Hermitage.
Slave Sites & Living Quarters
Today, there are still three standing Hermitage cabins that help to both answer and create new mysteries about the lives of Jackson’s enslaved community. Visitors can uncover these while visiting The Hermitage.
Field Quarter
The slaves who toiled in the fields lived with their family units in the more distant Field Quarter. Footprints of these buildings uncovered through archaeology give insights into the lives of its inhabitants.
Tulip Grove
Across Lebanon Pike from The Hermitage stands the beautiful Tulip Grove mansion and property, considered one of the best surviving examples of Greek Revival-style antebellum homes in Tennessee. Originally built for Rachel Jackson’s nephew, Andrew Jackson Donelson and his wife, it is now available for private events.