The natural mountain beauty of central Virginia was scenic solace and retreat for several of America’s forefathers who served their nation as president, and today the former homes of Jefferson, Madison and Monroe are inspiring settings for touring and private events.
James Madison’s Montpelier estate is being restored to its 18th century appearance, following about a century of changes brought by its DuPont Family owners.
It was Madison’s lifelong home, and today visitors can visit the mansion and other historic buildings and attendant exhibits. Archaeological sites, gardens, forests, and a new visitor center are also of interest.
Located 90 minutes from Richmond, Va., and 30 minutes from Charlottesville, Va., Montpelier offers several options for receptions, dinners and other gatherings.
The Dupont Gallery has a gilded appearance with blue silk fabric walls and a Grand Salon that’s perfect for up to 250 guests. The Visitor Center at Montpelier accommodates small groups of up to 60 for events that require a theater presentation or an informal setting.
Ash Lawn-Highland in Charlottesville is James Monroe’s home in the mountains. The site is now a 535-acre working farm, historic house museum and performing arts site that welcomes private events for up to 500 people.
Venues include the Pavilion, with a serving kitchen and space for up to 500 for banquets and speaker presentations. The Conference Room has a kitchen and patio for up to 90, and the site’s boxwood gardens are also available. Ash Lawn offers two tents for use on its grounds.
Thomas Jefferson was born in Albemarle County, and sometimes referred to it as a “Garden of Eden.” It’s where he built his magnificent estate, Monticello.
It’s situated on a mountain overlooking another of his legacies, The University of Virginia. Thousands of visitors call annually, and although private events are allowed only by special permission, groups are welcome for special tours outside public hours.
Jefferson’s retreat home near Lynchburg, Va., Poplar Forest, is available for special events and tours. Tented events for up to 300 guests are an option April through November, including after-hours tours of the house. Poplar Forest is currently under restoration, and tour topics range from Jefferson’s design and construction of his retreat, his landscape design and the plantation community, to the rescue of the property and its restoration.
For More Info
Montpelier 540.672.2728
www.montpelier.org
Ash Lawn-Highland 434.293.9539
www.ashlawnhighland.org
Monticello 434.984.9822
www.monticello.org
Poplar Forest 434.525.1806
www.poplarforest.org
