The Campaign to Purchase Montalto
A Preservation Effort
As part of its ongoing efforts to safeguard the historic and scenic nature of the views from Monticello, the Thomas Jefferson Foundation, Inc., has purchased a prime 330-acre adjacent parcel, which Jefferson called Montalto ("high mountain"). Acquired by Jefferson in the 1770s, Montalto, which is commonly known as Brown's Mountain, arises approximately 400 feet above Monticello across Route 53. At $15 million, this purchase is the largest single acquisition in the history of the Thomas Jefferson Foundation. Coincidentally, Jefferson championed another significant land acquisition for the exact same price in 1803: the Louisiana Purchase.
The Thomas Jefferson Foundation's purchase of Montalto is not a commercial transaction but rather an attempt to preserve Montalto's historic and natural viewshed from development. The preservation of Montalto is an encouraging step toward Monticello's long-term master plan: to bring the appearance of the eighteenth century back onto the mountaintop. By purchasing Montalto, the Foundation can ensure that Jefferson's "high mountain" can be saved.
A Delicate Balance
This plan requires a delicate balance between maintaining historical accuracy and natural beauty while accommodating modern conveniences and accessibility. Jefferson's vision for Montalto included using its natural landscape as a park. By allowing pedestrians access to Montalto, the Foundation would not only be fulfilling Jefferson's dream but would also be coming full circle with the Thomas Jefferson Parkway, which includes the Saunders-Monticello Trail, a two-mile path leading up the mountaintop to Monticello, and Saunders Bridge, which provides a safe entrance to Monticello from Route 53. Pedestrians will soon be able to continue up and onto Montalto.
The Thomas Jefferson Foundation's goal is to raise $15 million for the acquisition of Montalto. If fulfilled, this objective will protect a natural setting, celebrate history, accommodate the present, set a precedent for the future, and preserve Jefferson's view and legacy.