Travellers Rest Plantation & Museum

The 1799 home of John Overton, Nashville’s oldest house museum open to the public.

Travellers Rest remained a central part of the Overton family and their descendants until 1946 when J.M. Dickinson, Judge Overton’s great-grandson, sold the property to Dr. John Youmans. Dr. Youmans retained what was left of Judge Overton’s farm until 1951when the L&N Railroad acquired and occupied the site before granting the 3 acres on which the Overton home and remaining buildings sat to The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Tennessee in 1954. Dr. Youmans, a physician and Dean and Professor of Medicine at Vanderbilt University Hospital, recognized the unique story Travellers Rest had to tell and encouraged the railroad to donate the site to a preservation organization for the benefit of future generations.

Mission Statement:

Travellers Rest Historic House Museum, Inc. is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the Overton home and serving as a gateway for learners of all ages to explore and experience Nashville’s historic past.

Vision Statement:

Travellers Rest Engages a national audience while contributing to Nashville’s future, preserving regional history, and inspiring learners from all backgrounds and of all ages.