Hermitage Hotel's History Gallery

Since opening as Nashville’s original million-dollar hotel in 1910, The Hermitage Hotel has long been known as the top hotel in Tennessee and one of the premier hotels in the country. Our tradition of excellence that began in 1910 has remained vibrant and alive throughout the years, serving as the first – and at times the only – five-star hotel in the state.

Crafted in the early 1900s, The Hermitage Hotel is a masterful work credited to Tennessee native James Carpenter, who completed his formal education at the famed Ecole des Beaux Arts in Paris before going on to be one of New York’s premier luxury high-rise designers. To this day, more than 40 of J.E.R. Carpenter’s buildings remain sought-after residences along the coveted Park and 5th Avenues, a testament to the enduring caliber of The Hermitage Hotel.

With a central location just steps from the state capitol, The Hermitage Hotel quickly established itself as a favorite among politicians, but it wasn’t long before this beloved local haunt captured the attention of other travelers as well. Over the years, The Hermitage has played host to American presidents, foreign dignitaries, musical legends, Hollywood icons, business magnates and more.