Wednesday, May 17, 2006

Jefferson's Mountain


On Wednesday, we spent the day near Charlottesville, VA at Monticello. It was a beautiful day to take an hour ride from our RV park to the area. We had lunch at the historic Michie Tavern that was established in 1784 and is a prime example of the Colonial Revival period. The photo above is of the Meadow Run Grist Mill, which houses the General Store that contains the mechanisms of the Mill and, of course, oodles of souvenir items.
Finally, we reached the prize, Thomas Jefferson's Monticello that took over 20 years build. I was interested in the fact that his beloved wife, Martha, who bore him six children over ten years of marriage, never lived in the house. Instead, they lived in a small one room brick house to the side of the mansion. Sounds familiar and made me reassess my affection for Tom.
Actually, I was quite impressed with Jefferson, who truly was a Renaissance man, having knowledge and interest in so many areas. It amazes me that so many wise and honorable men were at the right place and time in our history. Yes, I am aware of the revisionist history on Jefferson, but he was a brilliant thinker and I continue to admire him.

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This is a view of Jefferson's garden, still tended today by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation. Mel wanted me to send along this photo. Please note the house up on the hill and the road leading to it. Bet they don't leave in the winter, when it is snowy.

Mel, also, wanted me to write that Jefferson died heavily in debt, owing $100,000 to his creditors. His heirs had to sell off the property, including his slaves, thereby losing beautiful Monticello. I don't know why Mel wanted you to know, but there it is. Oh yes, now I remember, something about living beyond one's means.

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