Located on Old Hickory Lake in Hendersonville, Rock Castle is two miles south of Gallatin Road (Highway 31E) off Indian Lake Road. It remains one of Tennessee’s most important structures of the early Republic. Its noteworthy architectural character reflects the taste of a man of culture and education who chose to build a new life for himself and his family on the frontier.

The once 3,140 acre plantation now consists of 18 acres, the house, a smokehouse and cemetery. The creation of Old Hickory Lake in the 1950’s claimed other existing outbuildings. The architectural style is a simple and pleasing blend of Georgian and Federal periods. It has its origins in the colonial homes of Virginia, Daniel Smith’s birthplace.

The original unit, built in the mid 1780’s, consisted of two rooms. The family lived in these while other rooms were added. By 1796 the multi-level stone dwelling was complete; it is comprised of seven rooms–four downstairs and three upstairs–along with a usable basement and attic.

Rock Castle was raised from the land itself. The great limestone blocks were quarried nearby. The wood for the house came from virgin walnut, ash, cedar, cherry and poplar trees on the property. The front features beautifully flat hewn limestone block layed in level rows with ridge point mortar.

The height of luxury for for a frontier home in its day, its 22” thick stone walls have stood the test of time preserving this treasure for all to enjoy today.

This site is owned by the State of Tennessee. It is managed and interpreted by the “Friends of Rock Castle”, a private, non-profit organization employing a professional museum staff aided by volunteers.