Downstairs at the Home of James K. Polk, Columbia, TN (2 of 5)

Behind the green door of the Polk home, lies this welcoming entrance hall.  The thirsty traveler was always greeted with a cool beverage from the sterling service on the right, a Southern tradition.

The top for this table in the front parlor was a gift to the president from an African emissary.  The docent points out the "error" in this portrayal of the Presidential Seal.  Did you notice the brown head of the American Bald Eagle?  Was this an error or a comment on our fledgling democracy?  The Bald Eagle, after all, does not gain his white feathers until adulthood.

Passing through the parlor into this large, well-lit dining room, you can't help being impressed with the restrained opulence expressed by the window treatments.  The magnificent mirror reflects the portraits of James' mother (over the mantle) and wife.

Looking to your right, you find the table is set with Sarah's specially crafted White House china, featuring the Presidential Seal  and decorated with hand-painted wildflowers.

Visit The Polk Home at 301 West 7th Street in historic Columbia, TN.

The Polk Home, Columbia, TN (1 of 5)

The simple facade and lone Tennessee Historical Marker by the front walkway do little to draw you into this wonderfully preserved ancestral home of our eleventh president, James Knox Polk.

The front of this elegant town home is now partially obscured by massive magnolia trees.

James K. Polk lived in his father's home from 1818 to 1824 while he practiced law a few blocks away. This building has become a repository for both his presidential and personal belongings, as well as those of his family, being his only existing residence other than the White House.  It thus serves as his Presidential Library as well as providing a glimpse into the elegant southern lifestyle of the mid-nineteenth century.

The home is accessed through the side door of the adjacent "Sisters' House", built by his father for James' two sisters, which now serves as a museum and gift shop. One item in the museum especially demands your attention-  the vision of First Lady Sarah Polk in her inaugural gown.

The home provides individual or group tours as well as special events and programs.  Visit their website at
http://www.jameskpolk.com/ to plan your visit. You will not be disappointed.