CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA. -- U.S. Rep. Tom Perriello will be the featured speaker Saturday, July 4, at Monticello's 47th annual Independence Day Celebration and Naturalization Ceremony.

The event at the home of Thomas Jefferson begins at 10 a.m. and is open to the public free of charge.

Perriello, a Democrat, represents Virginia's 5th District, which includes Monticello. He was elected in November 2008 and currently serves on the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee and the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.

Born and raised in the 5th District, Perriello holds undergraduate and law degrees from Yale University. He previously served as a national security consultant, working in conflict zones such as Afghanistan, Darfur, Kosovo, Sierra Leone, and Liberia, and also founded a number of nonprofit organizations.

Since 1963, approximately 3,000 individuals have been sworn in as American citizens on Independence Day at Monticello in proceedings presided over by the U.S. District Court, Western District of Virginia.

Last year's featured speaker at Monticello on July 4 was President George W. Bush.

This Fourth of July will mark the 233rd anniversary of American independence. Jefferson, author of the Declaration of Independence, died at Monticello on the 50th anniversary, July 4, 1826.