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Monticello Sights and Sounds

Luca DiCecco

Monticello’s annual observance of Thomas Jefferson’s April 13, 1743, birthday was held on the West Lawn of Monticello. The day included music by the U.S. Army’s Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps and the presentation of wreaths by various organizations.

Courtesy of Thomas Jefferson Foundation/Liesel Nowak

With the Thomas Jefferson Visitor Center and Smith Education Center now fully open for business, a visit to Monticello has become an even richer experience. Built by the Thomas Jefferson Foundation at a cost of $43 million, the 42,000-square-foot facility includes a café, interactive exhibits, an education center, a gift shop and a hands-on activity room for children. Located on the lower slope of Monticello mountain and constructed with natural building materials, the center’s five pavilions and central courtyard were designed by Ayers/Saint/Gross Architects + Planners to blend into the wooded landscape.

Courtesy of Thomas Jefferson Foundation/Stephanie Gross