The Forgotten Tennessee Gravesite That No One Ever Visits

A forgotten gravesite that no one visits – or, perhaps, everyone visits without knowing. It sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? A forgotten gravesite in a highly public place, a body buried just beyond the consistent tread of congresspeople and tourists alike. Here in Tennessee, you’ll find a very important human buried in a highly important place: right on the grounds of the state capitol. If you’re looking for the grave of the former president of the United States, James K. Polk, it’s much closer than you think.

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The Tennessee State Capital is located in the heart of Middle Tennesse, a gorgeous feat of southern architecture that presides over the city of Nashville on Capital Hill.

Rough Tough, Real Stuff - Flickr

Sure, we know that it's the home of Tennessee's state congress and our ever-important legislative branch, but did you know that a famed president is also buried on the grounds?

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Brent Moore - Flickr

President James K. Polk served as the 11th president of the United States, from 1845 to 1849. He was originally buried with his wife at Polk Place, his Nashville mansion, but the bodies were later moved to the state capitol building.

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Snapshots of the Past - Flickr

Here you can see a historic shot of the building from 1864, almost twenty years after Polk's death. He and his wife were moved to the grounds of the State Capitol building on September 19th, 1893.

J. Stephen Conn - Flickr

President Polk was known for the annex of Oregon Country and the procurement of New Mexico, California and Texas after the Mexican War. He died of cholera contracted in New Orleans, Louisiana, just 103 days after the end of his term.

Jason Mrachina - Flickr

Have you visited the hidden presidential gravesite in Nashville? Did you know President Polk was interred on the capitol building grounds? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

If you’re looking for something delicious after your visit, you should check out this nearby coffee shop. Their donuts are delicious!