It was Constitution Day this past week. Did you remember? 225 years ago that document was ratified and we celebrated by attending today's festivities at Montpelier, the home of the Father of the Constitution, James Madison. In fact, he and Dolley arrived by carriage a little bit after noon and formally welcomed us. J caught some good shots on the IPod's camera before we watched the horse parade that followed the carriage.
This presidential home on its rolling green fields has such a farm-like feeling. As a museum, the re-enactors and interactive exhibits made it easier to imagine colonial life.
Isn't it amazing how much more of an appreciation you have for people after you visit their homes? The Madisons seem like such visionaries, James through his intellect and political savvy and Dolley through her courage and social intelligence.
Montpelier's simple beauty leaves an impression. The Madisons' good friend Thomas Jefferson had a strong influence here, and it is observable in the design and decor. When I was young my family lived in Montpelier, Idaho in southeastern Idaho for several years. I had no idea that small-town Idaho could share a name with something so grand.
Giant Madison-era trees
Madison's Temple
Triple hung pocket windows
May we take you when you come to visit? I think you'd love it.
6 comments:
Yes, take us when we come visit! We need to find a time to come visit! And have you watched the Dolley Madison documentary that you can stream in through Netflix? Especially after your visit, you'd love it.
One of our favorite VA stops too. I love that your school-age kids are getting exposure to our rich history. You're making great patriots! You are so lovely Liz.
Sign us up! I love all of the adventures you have with your family!
jj
I accept your invitation. I think Jefferson and Madison collaborated alot on building houses.
It looks amazing!
It looks amazing!
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