Highland, formerly Ash Lawn–Highland, located near Charlottesville, Virginia, United States, and adjacent to Thomas Jefferson's Monticello, was the estate of James Monroe, a Founding Father and fifth president of the United States.
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My wife and I flew in from Houston, TX to venue-shop in person. While this may speaks to the level of privilege we must have had, bear in mind that this was 60 days before our slated wedding date and we were scrambling. It was surprisingly difficult to secure a stable venue that fit our needs. For the uninitiated, the Muslim wedding we had planned was small and simple - 50 people, a 20 minute ceremony, and a dinner. No alcohol. No music. No dancing. That being said, the mountainous summer hills of central Virginia did not seem willing to accommodate us.
Until we met Jason at James Monroe's Highland. As a fellow UVA-grad, he understood the appeal of an outdoor wedding near the old stomping grounds. Monticello was simply too busy for us, but Jason was wide open! We booked not 1, but 2 outdoor spaces for our separate ceremony and dinner events. The Blue Ridge Terrace was picturesque, with a backdrop of sprawling mountains over a mottled wheat field. The hedged-in space felt cozy and secluded, with towering trees providing ample shade. We were blessed with an overcast day much to the delight of our photographer, who needed no arch to frame us beautifully against the white fence at the edge of the arena. I could go on about the Narnia-like walk from the car to each venue, spiraling through a well-signed labyrinth of flora and fauna, or the vast, sheltered Pavilion upon which we dined, but I think you get the idea.
The point is that Jason was welcoming, accommodating. He understood our circumstance and helped in the ways that he could. He connected us with key vendors, measured spaces at our behest, and trusted us to care for his beloved property the day and night of our event. I could not ask for a better groundskeeper and host. We plan to renew our vows here in the not-too-distant future!
The cost was inconsequential and the value of the experience invaluable. I am glad that they ask for a donation; I feel like I am contributing both to the next happy couple's wedding and to the preservation of central Virginia heritage. We saw some seriously gorgeous venues in the area, but we could not imagine getting married anywhere besides James...
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MAJOR GEM!!! 💎 A MUST SEE! My husband and I have visited Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall, Monticello, Poplar Forest, Patrick Henry’s House, Ferry Farm, Mary Washington’s House, Montpelier, Williamsburg, etc. My credibility is that we have been to a lot of “home sites.”
Confession!!! I actually BYPASSED visiting James Monroe’s Highland two years ago after finding out the house burned down. What a MAJOR MISTAKE! This place is RICH with history. The guides are INCREDIBLE!!!
We are history nerds and learned SO much. The guesthouse is rich with history. The artifacts are excellent. We plan to come back to spend more time here! And we already spent about 2.5 hours here!
I recommend listening to the outdoor speech and engaging with the James Monroe actor (who is a top notch historian and actor). I loved being able to freely move about the property.
I have a toddler, and everyone was so accommodating of her.
The guides did an excellent job of weaving together Monroe’s social/family life as it affects to his work. They addressed the complexities in his relationship with Madison and Washington. The biggest bang for your buck is engaging with the guides. Some folks just buy a ticket, walk through and leave… don’t do that! Listen to the guides!
The trail system is great! We have been on one trail here and loved it! We want to do more!! This is a GEM! 💎
To the folks who still “knock” the site for the house burning down or for the fact Monroe was not always residing here… this site represents the social context that brought Monroe influence. It looks directly at Jefferson’s property. Jefferson mentored Monroe and also wanted him to live next door. Monroe looked upon this land after doubling the size of our country. He chose this plot of land over anything out west! He lived in a modest farm house, was self made, but also carried debt from his work for our country. This place is important and provides an excellent...
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A wonderful place to learn about James Monroe and his grounds The James Monroe House, also known as Highland, is a historic site located near Charlottesville, Virginia. It was the home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, from 1799 to 1823. Monroe was a key figure in American history, known for the Monroe Doctrine and his efforts to establish the United States. Highland offers visitors a glimpse into the life and times of Monroe through unguided and guided tours of the property. The house itself is modest compared to other presidential homes, reflecting Monroe’s preference for simplicity. The original structure burned down in the mid-1800s, but the current house includes parts of the replacement structure, with some original outbuildings still standing. If you take the tour they will show you where the excavations have (and are) occurring on a periodic basis. The estate is set on a beautiful, rolling landscape, and visitors can explore the grounds, gardens, and a museum that showcases Monroe’s contributions to the nation. Exhibits include personal artifacts, period furnishings, and documents related to his presidency. There were docents in (I think) every structure and most rooms that were very knowledgeable about the places, history, and effects that were on display. I found the entire experience wonderful and informative. The tour costs a modest $18/person and is well worth it. Highland provides a unique perspective on Monroe’s life, emphasizing his commitment to public service and his efforts to shape the early republic. I recommend it to all interested in our country's founding fathers and want to learn more about their history...
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