Monticello

8th grade East Coast trip
June 1999

Being the huge presidential buff that I am, this place was heaven to me.
I went here i the late 80’s with my first wife.

Yeah, so T-Jeff liked the Enlightenment, Greek rationalism, and gardening. And he helped found the United States. But he kept slaves, and slept with them. Anyways, that dichotomy hits you as you walk around the place: here you have this beautiful house (cleaned I’m sure by slaves) filled with Jefferson’s awesome inventions and writings (which he had time to work on because he had lots of slaves doing the grunt work) and surrounded by beautifully maintained grounds (see above). Nonetheless, the USA owes the man a great debt, and the site is beautiful. Come pay tribute, or have a picnic regardless.

I think I was in 5th grade! So I would defiantely go back! Maybe I would be more intrested in learning more!

the tour is not so hot, but the grounds are amazing.

I was looking out at the orchard when this beautiful reddish creature was sneaking along the rows of trees. I had the deepest connection to Jefferson and his home from his orchards and the view. I can’t describe in words right now how the moment was but something shfited in me then. Followed by a walk to the family plot and I was so emotioanlly enmeshed I remember being just wrecked by the depth of feeling.

I went here a few years ago and it was such a great trip!

I like Thomas Jefferson quite a bit so I was fascinated by his home and all the details of his life.

The grounds are gorgeous.

I live in a very historical town with many lovely places so I am not easily impressed.

I can certainly recommend a trip to Monticello!

The tour I took of Monticello was very, very inspiring. It amped up the dreams I have had since a child of being President someday. It was simply awing. Even though it was about 120 degrees and 99 humidity with bright sunlight, it was one of the most memorable and best days of my life!

don’t forget to visit the garden, orchard and vineyard. there’s lots of fresh vegetables and fruit this time of year.

I visited my husband’s aunt, who has a home on Lake Monticello, for a long weekend.

Made this pilgrimage a couple of years ago. Was disillusioned with the image of George Bush`s America. It is nice to see the world Thomas
Jefferson saw and touched.

They dont show you the upstairs at Monticello, and I havent been able to find pictures. Wonder what it looks like.

Something can be said for a President who`s pasttime is raising flowers, instead of cutting brush.

The highlight for me was his gravestone and what he considered important:

Here was buiried Thomas Jefferson,
Author of the Decleration of Independence,
of the Statuate of Religious Freedom,
and father of the University of Virginia.