The Playful Antiquarian

Monticello

August 1st, 2004

Happily, I made it to Monticello and completed my visit before an early afternoon downpour turned my first full day in Charlottesville into a washout. As the Monticello website and various guidebooks suggest, it is advisable to arrive at Monticello early, especially if you are visiting on a summer weekend. The wait was bearable but slightly uncomfortable in the sun and with the pre-rain humidity. And there was the added unpleasantness (for squeamish folks like me) of trees teeming with spiders.

Inside the house, we were led from room to room at a quick clip by a very knowledgeable and articulate guide. Sadly, it was difficult to listen to the tour guide and observe the displays and items in the room, and no time was given just to look at individual rooms without the guide speaking.

Unsurprisingly, my travel companion and I were disappointed,especially, about being rushed out the library/bookroom. Time constraints also prevented people in our group from asking many questions, which was sad since everyone, including the children, asked intelligent, thoughtful questions.

I took obligatory photos of the famous West Front and of the south pavilion, where Jefferson lived alone and later with his wife, Martha, while the main house was being built. I wanted to upload them to my other weblog, but I cannot seem to access it at the moment. When the server is accessible again, I will share my photos. I am a mediocre (at best) photographer, so please do not expect much.

On a final note, as the RBS travel and housing guide mentions, if you pay for one adult admission ticket with a $20 bill, you will receive a crisp $2 bill as a bit of a souvenir. It was a delightful discovery for me. Nifty and clever.

Entry Filed under: Rare Book School