The Forgotten Tennessee Gravesite That No One Ever Visits
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Meghan Kraft
Author
A forgotten gravesite? It sounds so scandalous. How does one forget a gravesite, how does a state forget a burial place? Well, when it’s tucked away in the heart of downtown Nashville’s hustle and bustle it’s not too difficult to pass over this historic resting place simply because you’re rushing about your day. This forgotten Tennessee gravesite is located on the grounds of the city’s capitol building, and just exactly who’s there might shock you.
Nashville, Tennessee has exploded in popularity in recent years. It's become a tourist destination as well as an economic powerhouse for the state of Tennessee and the south alike. Still, no matter how the city has rejuvenated and repositioned itself business-wise, it's a city that has a deep tie to American history.
On the grounds of the capitol building, there's a grave that's a bit off the beaten path and honestly quite shockingly placed. Who is entombed at the state capitol, do you wonder?
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It's no one other than the 11th President of the United States, James K. Polk. He's best known for presiding over the very beginning of the Gold Rush and being one of only two presidents that hail from The Volunteer State, and he has been laid to rest with his wife, Sarah, amidst the legislative comings and goings of the state.
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The Polk family has been moved three times, as a matter of fact, and there's a current proposal to relocate the bodies to the Columbia, Tennessee based Polk family mansion. The home operates as a museum nowadays, but it's still up in the air as to whether or not they will be relocated.
Some say it's for the best, that the president be interred in a place that truly honors a life of both military and political service. It's a shock to most folk, that a former president is tucked away on a grassy patch of land right in the heart of downtown.
If you're looking to visit the grave for yourself, one that's much too often overlooked, then head to the Tennessee Capitol grounds in Nashville, Tennessee. We're sure the Polks will appreciate the company.
If you’re hungry after your Nashville adventure, then this is the spot to head to for lunchtime!
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