The Mystery of Elizabeth Hutchinson Jackson

Charleston is no stranger to mysteries due to its riveting and full history that has been taking place since the 17th century. One can imagine that there is an emphasis on burial grounds during this time which is one of the many things that Charleston is known for. Many famous historical people are buried in the Holy City including the mother of a United States president, Elizabeth Hutchinson Jackson. Jackson supposedly died due to an illness while she was helping her nephews and others who were on a British prisoner ship. The mystery that surrounds her is the issue that no one has any idea where she was buried, even today. Her son, Andrew Jackson, tried multiple times to find the final resting place of his mother to no avail.

So the question is, why is the tombstone of Jackson on the College of Charleston campus? Well, during the 1970's former CofC president decided it would be a good idea to move the tombstone onto the campus after it was found to be mistreated and the campus has been it's home ever since. Although her body has never been able to been found, at least her tombstone is well taken care of and walked past by hundreds of people each day. To find the tombstone, simply go to Cougar Mall and in between the Honors College House and the RSS Building, the tombstone rests. Another way that she is commemorated is by a memorial statue in the Old Waxhaw Presbyterian Cemetery.

Elizabeth Hutchinson Jackson
Tombstone

Elizabeth Hutchinson Jackson
Memorial
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