Travelrific® Travel Journal

Old Hickory’s Homestead

March 16, 2015 8:00 am

By Linda Tancs

U.S. President Andrew Jackson (you know, the one on the 20 dollar bill) gained the nickname Old Hickory as a result of his toughness on the battlefield during the War of 1812, a battle that ultimately won him the White House. Following the presidency, he retired to his much loved estate in Tennessee, The Hermitage. The main house, considered one of the best preserved early presidential homes, is a Greek Revival brick mansion, chock-full of original furnishings, including very scenic and stunning wallpaper depicting the tale of Homer’s Odyssey. The pastoral surroundings are punctuated with a small herd of Belted Galloways (sometimes referred to as the Oreo-cookie cow due to its appearance). In the southeast corner of the garden you’ll find the tomb of the president and his beloved wife, Rachel. Visited by millions annually, the property is located just miles outside downtown Nashville.