The Hermitage Enslaved: A Wagon Tour

Wintertime on the Farm 

Dress warmly and join us for a brisk wagon tour on the grounds of Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage. Snuggle under blankets provided and learn how the enslaved people’s lives changed on this cotton plantation during the wintertime. 

Powered by draft horses and driven by an experienced guide, this 30 minute horse-drawn wagon tour takes you back in time as you travel beyond the mansion and into the fields where your guide will showcase the daily lives of Jackson’s enslaved men, women and children. You will hear about how those lives were intertwined not only with the various archaeological sites you will see along the way but also how their lives were closely intertwined with the Jacksons.

Although the cotton gin house is no longer standing, your guide will highlight the importance of the gin and where it once stood. You will hear about Ben and Squire, two enslaved men who were entrusted with the gin and press and how they and others were vital to the cotton operation and the lifestyle of the Jackson family.

In addition to the cotton gin site, you will see other archaeological sites associated with the enslaved community and learn about how these people carved out portions of their lives for themselves despite the chains that bound them to the institution of slavery.

This tour offers a glimpse of The Hermitage enslaved community from a truly unique perspective.

To secure a seat on the wagon, be sure to purchase your ticket at the ticket office upon your arrival. Tickets sell out quickly. Tour tickets are $15 per person in addition to regular admission. Children aged 5 and under ride for free.

Due to the nature of the wagon ride, inclement weather can affect tour availability.

Winter wagon tour runs as the weather allows through February 28. Wagon tour runs regularly from March 1 through November 30.

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