Prepare to step into the illustrious past as you embark on a journey with Nashville Experience Tours. Explore historic gems in like the iconic Hermitage Hotel awaiting to unveil its tales of Music City’s heritage.
The Hermitage Hotel, named after President Andrew Jackson’s estate, has been a landmark in Nashville for over a century. Constructed in 1908 with the guidance of well-known architect James Edwin Ruthven Carpenter, the hotel was an architectural marvel, boasting ten stories of Beaux-Arts grandeur.
Upon its opening on September 17, 1910, the hotel dazzled guests with its opulent amenities, including private bathrooms in every guestroom, Circassian walnut paneling in the dining room, and a magnificent lobby adorned with Tennessee and Italian marble.
The hotel swiftly gained renown as an exclusive destination frequented by politicians and luminaries. It became a political hub, hosting governors and state legislators and witnessing visits from multiple U.S. Presidents, including Taft, Wilson, Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon, Carter, Clinton, and Bush. The pivotal moment in its history was the statewide approval of the 19th Amendment in 1920, with the hotel serving as the battleground for pro- and anti-suffrage forces led by Carrie Chapman Catt and Josephine Pearson.
Beyond politics, The Hermitage Hotel has also been a temporary residence for many celebrities. Military heroes like Sergeant Alvin York and Lieutenant Audie Murphy, sports legends like Babe Ruth, and Hollywood stars like Charlie Chaplin and Vivian Leigh have all graced its halls. Additionally, the hotel played a significant role in Nashville’s music scene, hosting Grand Ole Opry performers and even birthing the Country Music Association.
After declining in the middle of the 20th century, preservationists and Mayor Richard Fulton saved the hotel from potential demolition. Following extensive restoration, it reopened in 1981, marking a new era of prosperity. The hotel changed hands before being acquired by Historic Hotels in the year 2000, leading to further renovations. It has received many awards, including a Five Diamond rating by AAA and a five-star score from Forbes. In 2020, it was designated a National Historic Landmark, recognizing its pivotal role in the women’s suffrage movement.
Famous Historic Events
In 1920, the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to cast their vote, was one state away from becoming federal law. Tennessee and North Carolina were the remaining undecided states. Carrie Chapman Catt, President of the National American Women Suffrage Association, identified Tennessee as the key battleground. Taking up residence in Suite 309 of The Hermitage Hotel, she strategized with local suffragist leaders and allies from the National Women’s Party, including Sue Shelton White. Meanwhile, Josephine Pearson, an anti-suffragist, led a campaign against the Amendment from her suite on the eighth floor of the same hotel. Pearson and her followers argued against suffrage, believing women were unsuited for politics and that the Amendment would disrupt established power dynamics.
The campaigning at The Hermitage Hotel intensified over six weeks, with both pro and anti-suffrage forces vying for support. The hotel became a focal point for Tennessee’s political activities, earning the moniker “third house” of the state’s congress. Pearson’s group even established a “Jack Daniel’s Suite” speakeasy to sway legislators. Tensions rose, leading to confrontations and suspicions of surveillance. When the vote finally took place on August 18, the Tennessee Senate passed the Amendment, but its fate in the House of Representatives was uncertain. In a pivotal moment, Representative Harry T. Burn, initially aligned with the anti-suffragists, changed his vote, securing a narrow victory for suffrage. The 19th Amendment was ratified, granting 27 million women the right to vote, though it primarily benefited white women, with broader inclusivity coming later through the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
A Stand for Equality
One of the most remarkable chapters in the Hermitage Hotel’s history is its role in the civil rights movement. During the 1950s and 1960s, Nashville was at the forefront of the struggle for racial equality. The Hermitage Hotel, under the leadership of its owner, was one of the first establishments in the city to desegregate. This bold move sent a powerful message and marked a turning point in Nashville’s history.
Private Nashville tours often focus on this crucial aspect of the Hermitage Hotel’s past. It’s a reminder of the role that individual businesses can play in shaping the course of history.
The Hermitage Hotel Today
Today, the Hermitage Hotel is a lovingly preserved historical site, offering guests a unique glimpse into Nashville’s past. Its luxurious rooms and suites provide a taste of the city’s classic elegance, while modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay for all visitors.
Why Visit the Hermitage Hotel?
Architectural Marvel
The Beaux-Arts design, ornate detailing, and grand facades are a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts.
Civil Rights Landmark
Explore the very spot where Nashville took a stand for equality and desegregation.
Historical Significance
The Hermitage Hotel has witnessed pivotal moments in Nashville’s history, making it an invaluable part of its heritage.
Luxurious Experience
Even if you’re not staying overnight, a visit to the hotel promises an indulgent experience with its exquisite lobby and renowned Capitol Grille restaurant.
Bathrooms
Tucked away in the heart of downtown Nashville lies a surprising and unique attraction – the famous bathrooms of the Hermitage Hotel. These lavatories have earned a reputation as some of the most luxurious and iconic restrooms in the United States.
The Legendary Oak Bar
No visit to the Hermitage Hotel is complete without stopping by the legendary Oak Bar. This historic watering hole has been serving patrons since the hotel’s inception. With its dark wood paneling, cozy leather chairs, and a vast selection of spirits, the Oak Bar exudes timeless charm. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a classic cocktail and soak in the hotel’s historic ambiance.
Experience the Elegance Up Close
As you embark on our walking tour of Nashville, TN, prepare to be transported back in time. The Hermitage Hotel’s grandeur is evident through its opulent limestone façade and iconic Beaux-Arts architectural details.
Step into the lobby and marvel at the stunning vaulted ceiling adorned with hand-painted Renaissance-style frescoes. The attention to detail is astonishing, reflecting an era when craftsmanship and artistry were paramount. The hotel’s opulent fixtures, including crystal chandeliers and ornate marble accents, are a sight to behold.
Corporate Tours and Outings
If you’re planning a corporate outing in Nashville, consider including the Hermitage Hotel in your itinerary. It offers a unique backdrop for team-building activities and serves as a conversation starter for discussions on Nashville’s history and its role in the Cirmitage hotelvil Rights Movement.
In a city teeming with unique experiences, the Hermitage Hotel stands out as a living testament to Nashville’s vibrant past. Remember to include The Hermitage Hotel in your itinerary as you plan your things to do in Nashville. Its rich history and opulent beauty gracing every corner will leave you with a lasting impression of Music City’s past.
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