The Hermitage

While Heidi was here, she wanted to take her kids to see The Hermitage. The Hermitage is the home of President and General Andrew Jackson. I remember going to historical sites with my mother when I was younger and this reminded me just how much I really liked it!

The Hermitage consists of the house (not really a country house~ more like a mansion {and I know I didn't get a great picture of it..sorry}), the gardens (where Jackson's tomb is located), a few slave quarters, and the 1,000 acre cotton plantation (which is now fields for cattle and grass). I was a little apprehensive about taking the little ones at first, but they were great as long as we kept moving. It was really interesting to learn about the lives of the people who lived with and worked for Jackson. I can't believe that they considered this (Nashville) the West! Brennan found the farm fascinating, Nolan loved the tour of the mansion by the ladies dressed in period apparel, and Ian was just happy to be outside in the fresh air. Micaela and Jessica read everything they could about all of the pictures and artifacts while Marissa and Brennan followed the tour through the audio headsets we were given. All said, the Hermitage was a great activity for the family. I know that I'm turning into my mother because going to historical sites is something that I really think that I could get into!

Everyone listening to the audio tour.

Jessica learning about the clothes the Andrew Jackson and his wife Rachel wore to to ball thrown in honor of him.

Marissa and Brennan in front of the carriage that was considered the finest form of transportation for that era. Looked really uncomfortable to me!

The tomb of Andrew Jackson and his wife Rachel.

Brennan and Marissa in front of one of the many magnolia trees in bloom.

Nolan and Ian just enjoying the ride.