Interpreting Jefferson and Monticello: New Perspectives for a New Century

FAIN: GM-50203-04

Monticello (Charlottesville, VA 22902-0316)
Susan R. Stein (Project Director: September 2003 to February 2007)

Planning for an exhibition in a new visitor center emphasizing Jefferson’s public contributions to the nation as well as interpretation of Mulberry Row, a site of slave activity at Monticello.

The Thomas Jefferson Foundation (TJF) wants Monticello’s visitors to learn more about Jefferson and to come away understanding more about slavery and the diverse community of whites and blacks who lived and worked at Monticello. Building upon an existing interpretive program, this grant will bring TJF staff together with humanities scholars to determine the content of key parts of this plan: the themes and content of a new exhibition, brochure, audio tour, and film; and the restoration and interpretation of Mulberry Row, a principal area of slave activity. These additions to the interpretation will convey to visitors a richer understanding of Jefferson’s accomplishments, placing these in the context of his historical moment.