A burial site was recently uncovered at Andrew Jackson’s plantation, The Hermitage. Andrew Jackson was the seventh president of the United States from 1829 to 1937. The 28 remains found are believed to have been those who worked on the plantation during their lives.
Historical Context
After Andrew Jackson rose to power, his ownership of enslaved individuals grew rapidly, and it’s believed that he had over 300 enslaved people working for him. His plantation was established in 1804, and many were put to harsh work in the fields. These new burials have been found undiscovered for centuries.
The Search for Burial Sites
The first sign of unmarked burials was brought to attention in the 1930s with an area of unchecked trees and ground that hadn’t been used for agriculture. This land that wasn’t used for anything suggested it held a more sinister purpose. Archaeologists used radar to scan underneath the ground until they found what seemed like a mass grave.
Archaeological Techniques Used
The radar detected depressions in the ground, suggesting that people had been buried there. The graves weren’t disturbed during the radar scanning, ensuring that the remains of those buried weren’t disturbed and disrespected.
Findings from the Excavation
An excavation started later, revealing that 28 people had been buried just 1,000 feet from Andrew Jackson’s manor house. Limestone stones were also found, suggesting that they may have been marked graves at one point, but over the years, they sank into the ground.
Significance of the Discovery
These findings link these people to slavery at Andrew Jackson’s plantation, giving possible insight into what life could have been like on the property. These graves are also a poignant reminder of the real humans who were tragically affected by slavery in America.
Community Involvement and Memorialization
The Andrew Jackson Foundation stepped in and included community ideas to figure out exactly how they should memorialize those found on the property. Descendants can be found to ensure that the best steps are taken going forward.
Educational Impact
The cemetery, instead of being covered up, is going to be included as part of the guided tours at The Hermitage. This will allow those to see the real-life impact of slavery and the realities that people unfortunate enough to be targeted would have to face.
Broader Implications
The findings at The Hermitage aren’t the first among presidential states. Burial sites have been found at other estates, such as Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello and George Washington’s Mount Vernon. These crucial findings need to be approached correctly so as not to disrespect those found while still conducting scientific research.
Challenges Faced by Researchers
In addition to the burial sites already found, it may take some time before others are found. Researchers have faced challenges due to land development and erosion over the centuries. Another complication is that historical records aren’t always accurate.
Future Research Opportunities
This discovery opens up new avenues for research into the lives of enslaved people at The Hermitage and beyond. Further studies could explore burial practices, health conditions, and daily lives through artifacts found alongside remains or within historical records. Such research can enrich our understanding of this dark chapter in American history.
Reflection on Slavery’s Legacy
The cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of slavery’s legacy in America. It prompts reflection on how society remembers and honors those who suffered under oppressive systems. Acknowledging this past is vital for fostering healing and understanding within communities today.
Honoring While Researching
The uncovering of the mass burial site at Andrew Jackson’s plantation and others marks an important step toward recognizing and honoring the lives of enslaved individuals who contributed significantly to American history. As more discoveries are made, it becomes increasingly clear that understanding this past is essential for shaping a more inclusive future narrative about America’s history.
Sources:
Cemetery for Enslaved People Found at The Hermitage
Archaeologists Discover Lost Burial Site of Enslaved People on President Andrew Jackson’s Tennessee Plantation
