Grand Homes of Nashville

Southern Living, May 2004

Sure, these beautiful Southern ladies have been around the block, but they still welcome with charm.

If you think you might be bored by a tour of an antebellum home, think again. Middle Tennessee features some of the most beautiful plantation homes in the South, and Nashville boasts some of the oldest and most historic. Here are three grandes dames who have special treats to offer visitors who come calling.

The Hermitage

Home to President Andrew Jackson and his beloved wife, Rachel, this sprawling complex includes the 1821 Greek Revival mansion, several outbuildings, and the tomb that holds both Andrew Jackson's remains and those of his wife. "Calico & Chintz: Early American Quilts From the Smithsonian American Art Museum" is a special exhibit scheduled for display from June 26 to August 29.

Belle Meade Plantation

Named after its surroundings, this "beautiful meadow" was once home to the Harding family and the famous horses that lived on the 5,400-acre farm. "Through the Eyes of the Artist: Interpreting the Thoroughbred in the 19th Century," an exhibit running through June 27, includes more than 20 paintings and a special tour of Belle Meade's own collection.

Travellers Rest

Judge John Overton (close friend and law partner of President Andrew Jackson) lived in what is now the oldest house museum open to the public in Nashville. The 1799 house lies just off I-65. Enjoy the tour, exploring the 100-year-old magnolias in the yard and the bedrooms slept in by famous generals. Afterward you'll find even more to entertain you. A special exhibit, "Travellers Rest: Past, Present, and Future," takes a look at 50 years of preservation efforts at the historic home and will be on display for six months, beginning May 16.

The Hermitage: (615) 889-2941 or www.thehermitage.com. Belle Meade Plantation: (615) 356-0501 or www. bellemeadeplantation.com. Travellers Rest: (615) 832-8197 or www.travel lersrestplantation.org.