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“Museum in the Entrance of the House”
A look at how Thomas Jefferson used his Entrance Hall as a museum that placed Monticello and the young United States in the world at large for his numerous visitors.
Trumbull's “Declaration”
Trumbull's “Declaration”
An Educational Visit
Several visitors to Monticello remarked on Thomas Jefferson's willingness to tell of his first-hand experiences in shaping the new country. A copy of Asher B. Durand's engraving of John Trumbull's Declaration of Independence of the United States of America, which hung over the fireplace, served this purpose well. Henry C. Thweatt, a student at the University of Virginia who visited the home of its founder, recalled that Jefferson "directed our attention to the different figures in the picture, giving us at the same time a brief outline of the character of each and some very interesting incidents connected with the whole scene."
"Admirable Likenesses"
An interesting connection to the painting itself is Jefferson's role in its creation. Not only did Jefferson draft the title document, but he also suggested to Trumbull that the scene be painted. Trumbull started the work at Jefferson's residence in Paris and claimed that "I began the composition of the Declaration of Independence, with the assistance of his [Jefferson's] information and advice." Jefferson also gave the artist a firsthand description and a rough sketch of the Assembly Room. Following Jefferson's initial encouragement, however, work on the painting slowed, since Trumbull tried to paint as many of the signers from life as possible. He did not finish the painting for thirty-three years, but the work was apparently worth the wait for the author of the Declaration, who declared, "admirable likenesses, they all are."
Declaration Book Club
A three-part reading and discussion tool kit designed for learners of all ages to delve into the enduring principles of the Declaration of Independence.
In this section
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![Portraits of James Madison, the marquis de Lafayette, and the Abbè Correia in a row on a band of deep yellow.]()
PageVisitors to Monticello
Jefferson frequently entertained and hosted expected, unexpected, and famous guests at Monticello, many of whom often stayed for weeks or more.
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![A view of Monticello's Entrance Hall looking up at the room's Great Clock and showing the various pieces of art, natural history specimens, and recreated Native American objects that flank the walls and the spaces between the room's arch-topped windows and glass door.]()
PageGreat Clock
A brief look at Monticello's Great Clock and the prominent role it played in life at Monticello.
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![American moose antlers (Alces alces americana). Antlers and partial skull cap mounted on wooden shield-shaped plaque. Right antler has nine points; left antler has nine points.]()
PageEuropean vs. American Superiority
A look Jefferson's transatlantic argument with French naturalist Comte de Buffon over which continent has the largest, strongest, and healthiest animals and environments.
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A Day in the Life of Thomas Jefferson
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