Dozens of enslaved people buried at Andrew Jackson's plantation remain unacknowledged
- Archaeologists using ground-penetrating radar have located a cemetery for enslaved people at The Hermitage in Tennessee.
- At least 28 bodies have been confirmed in the cemetery, with indications of potentially more, including graves for children.
- The Andrew Jackson Foundation plans to make this cemetery part of tours to encourage reflection on the lives of enslaved people.
In Nashville, Tennessee, recent archaeological efforts have unveiled a long-lost cemetery of enslaved individuals who lived on the plantation of President Andrew Jackson at The Hermitage. Between 1804 and 1865, at least 26 enslaved individuals are believed to have died on this property. Officials located the burial site roughly 1000 feet northwest of the mansion during physical surveys and through the use of ground-penetrating radar. This method confirmed the presence of at least 28 individuals, with the potential for more, including small graves for children. As many gravestones lie below the surface, only two small markers are currently visible. The cemetery adds a tangible element to ongoing efforts to acknowledge and memorialize the contributions of enslaved people in American history. The Andrew Jackson Foundation plans to incorporate this site into existing tours to foster reflection and contemplation regarding the legacies of slavery. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of inclusive voices in discussions related to the future commemoration of this space, reflecting a broader commitment to telling a more complete history surrounding America's past. An advisory committee will consist of historians and descendants of the enslaved individuals buried at this site, facilitating a community dialogue that honors their lives and sacrifices.