Andrew Johnson's Grave

US

Andrew Johnson's Grave
Andrew Johnson's Grave
Location
US
Category
heritage historic sites
Coordinates
36.1556109, -82.8377282
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

Andrew Johnson's Grave, located within the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery in Greeneville, Tennessee, serves as the final resting place of the 17th President of the United States. This historic site is a solemn destination for those interested in presidential history and the complex era of American Reconstruction. Visitors to the site encounter a prominent monument featuring a marble shaft, topped by an eagle, which marks the burial plot of Johnson and his wife, Eliza McCardle Johnson. The cemetery is maintained by the National Park Service, ensuring the preservation of this significant memorial. For those planning a trip to the region, exploring the broader Andrew Johnson National Historic Site provides a comprehensive understanding of the life and political career of the former president. As one of the notable local attractions in Greeneville, the gravesite offers a quiet, reflective space to contemplate the challenges faced by the United States following the Civil War. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for educational places to visit, the site provides a tangible connection to 19th-century American leadership. The grounds are typically best experienced during the morning or early afternoon when light is optimal for viewing the monument's inscriptions. It is recommended to check the local weather forecast before visiting to ensure a comfortable walk through the cemetery grounds.

General information

Andrew Johnson's Grave, located within the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery in Greeneville, Tennessee, serves as the final resting place of the 17th President of the United States. This historic site is a solemn destination for those interested in presidential history and the complex era of American Reconstruction. Visitors to the site encounter a prominent monument featuring a marble shaft, topped by an eagle, which marks the burial plot of Johnson and his wife, Eliza McCardle Johnson. The cemetery is maintained by the National Park Service, ensuring the preservation of this significant memorial. For those planning a trip to the region, exploring the broader Andrew Johnson National Historic Site provides a comprehensive understanding of the life and political career of the former president. As one of the notable local attractions in Greeneville, the gravesite offers a quiet, reflective space to contemplate the challenges faced by the United States following the Civil War. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for educational places to visit, the site provides a tangible connection to 19th-century American leadership. The grounds are typically best experienced during the morning or early afternoon when light is optimal for viewing the monument's inscriptions. It is recommended to check the local weather forecast before visiting to ensure a comfortable walk through the cemetery grounds.

Did you know

  • Andrew Johnson requested to be buried wrapped in an American flag with a copy of the U.S. Constitution placed under his head.
  • The monument at the gravesite stands 27 feet tall.
  • The cemetery was designated a National Cemetery in 1906, long after Johnson's death in 1875.

History

Andrew Johnson served as the 17th President of the United States from 1865 to 1869, assuming office following the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. His presidency was marked by intense conflict with Congress over the terms of Reconstruction following the American Civil War. Johnson was the first U.S. president to be impeached by the House of Representatives, though he was acquitted by the Senate by a single vote. After leaving office, he returned to Tennessee and was eventually elected to the U.S. Senate in 1875, becoming the only former president to serve in that body. He died shortly thereafter on July 31, 1875, and was interred at what is now the Andrew Johnson National Cemetery.

Cultural significance

The gravesite acts as a focal point for understanding the turbulent transition of the United States from the Civil War to the Reconstruction era. As the final resting place of a president who navigated one of the most polarizing periods in American history, the site provides a space for historical analysis and reflection. It stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Johnson’s policies and the political controversies that defined his administration. The preservation of the site by the National Park Service emphasizes the importance of maintaining historical landmarks that document the evolution of the American presidency and the complexities of national reconciliation.

Geography and landscape

The Andrew Johnson National Cemetery is situated on a hill known as Monument Hill in Greeneville, Tennessee. The landscape is characterized by well-manicured lawns and mature trees, providing a serene and respectful environment. The central feature, Johnson's monument, is positioned prominently to be visible from various points within the cemetery. The surrounding urban context of Greeneville maintains a historic character, with the cemetery serving as a quiet, elevated enclave that overlooks parts of the town. The terrain is gently sloped, typical of the East Tennessee landscape, offering a peaceful setting for visitors.

More facts

  • Imported from OSM batch