Jackson built the tomb on the Hermitage grounds for her in 1831 and was buried beside her in 1845. Childless, the Jacksons had adopted Rachel's nephew, Andrew Jackson Jr. Jackson's descendants remained at the mansion until 1887. In 1889 the Ladies' Hermitage Association received a deed of trust from the state of Tennessee to preserve the site. Today, The Hermitage welcomes a quarter-million visitors each year. The association invites memberships, which entitle the members to free admission to The Hermitage and other events at the historic site during the year.
Archaeologists excavate each summer and visitors are welcome to watch.
This year's dates are June 2-August 17. The 1999 digs will focus on the original Hermitage cabins.