Photo by: Hellodavey1902 / Cropped by: Richerman / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Source: Wikipedia – Mount Vernon
The history of Virginia is rich, and the state has several monuments dating back hundreds of years. Many historic homes in Virginia have withstood the test of time, and a reasonable number of them are still standing erect to date, including several presidential homes.
Some of these homes are open to the public, allowing visitors to see where our nation’s leaders once lived. Each of these homes has its unique story and provides a glimpse into America’s past!
A Glance at Virginia Presidential Historic Homes
Virginia, also known as the Mother of Presidents, is indeed a unique place. This is not just because of her rich historical antecedents but precisely because of the uniqueness of her people.
Virginia has produced eight presidents in America, making it the only state with the highest number of presidents in American history. From Monticello to Montpelier, Virginia Presidential Historic Homes offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience the homes and lives of America’s presidents.
These homes are more than just buildings; they are living history museums that provide insight into the people who have occupied the nation’s highest office. Located in some of Virginia’s most scenic regions, these homes offer visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Virginia countryside while learning about the country’s rich Presidential history.
Whether you’re interested in presidential history or simply looking for a unique and beautiful place to visit, Virginia Presidential Historic Homes are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Goerge Washington (1732-1799)
Photo by: Otherspice / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Source: Wikipedia – Mount Vernon
The first U.S. President, George Washington, was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He lived most of his life in Virginia, including at his Mount Vernon estate overlooking the Potomac River. He was president of the United States of America between the years 1789 to 1797.
Washington initially leased Mount Vernon from Anne, his half-brother Lawrence’s wife. But inherited it when she died in 1761. Though he spent more time in his Alexandria home, his Mount Vernon home was more famous and is open to guided tourists year-round.
Mount Vernon is open 365 days between 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, with guided and unguided tours available daily.
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826)
Photo by: Martin Falbisoner / CC BY-SA 3.0 / Source: Wikipedia – Monticello
The third U.S. President, Thomas Jefferson, was born in Albemarle County, Virginia. He is best known for his role in drafting the Declaration of Independence and as the primary author of the Jefferson Bible. He ruled between the years 1801 to 1809. He also founded the University of Virginia.
Jefferson’s Monticello estate is a masterpiece that reflects his personality and taste for art. The house has been redesigned many times and is now open to the public for a guided tour. The building features original furnishings, artwork, and personal items belonging to Jefferson and his family.
There are plenty of items to shop at Monticello if you visit. It is located on Route 53, Thomas Jefferson Parkway. Albemarle County.
James Madison (1751-1836)
Photo by: Pthomaskmadigan / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Source: Wikipedia – Montpelier (Orange, Virginia)
The fourth U.S. President, James Madison, was born in Orange County, Virginia. He is best known as the “Father of the Constitution” for his leading role in drafting the U.S. Constitution.
Madison lived most of his life at his Montpelier estate. Though the building had initially lost its original shape and structure due to age, it has since been revisited and restructured to look even better than its original form when it was first built. It now hosts a museum shop, garden, and trails.
Tourists are guided to explore the gardens and grounds of Montpelier 5 days a week. It opens from Thursdays to Mondays year-round.
James Monroe (1758-1831)
Photo by: RebelAt / Public domain / Source: Wikipedia – Highland (James Monroe house)
The fifth U.S. President, James Monroe, was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. He is best known for his “Monroe Doctrine” foreign policy. He was president between the years 1817 to 1825.
Monroe lived most of his life at his Ash Lawn-Highland estate, now a museum offering various engaging programs such as slavery at highlands, working blacksmith, plantation-style agriculture, and art exhibitions.
You can explore the Highland with private guides daily between 9:30 and 4:30 am.
William Henry Harrison (1773-1841)
Photo by: Jet Lowe / Public Domain / Source: Wikipedia – Berkeley Plantation
The ninth U.S. President, William Henry Harrison, was born in Charles City County, Virginia. He is best known for being the first president to die in office after serving only 31 days.
Harrison grew up in Berkeley Plantation, which belonged to his parents, Benjamin and Elizabeth Harrison. The home is now open to the public for tours led by knowledgeable guides. The estate includes Harrison’s original furniture, paintings, exhibition, and museum.
Berkeley Plantation is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Guided tours are available on the hour.
John Tyler (1790-1862)
Photo by: Pi3.124 / CC BY-SA 4.0 / Source: Wikipedia – Sherwood Forest Plantation
The tenth U.S. President, John Tyler, was born in Charles City County, Virginia. He is best known for being the first vice president to take office after the death of a sitting president. He served as president between 1841 and 1845.
Tyler’s Sherwood Forest Plantation is a historic site that includes the main house, outbuildings, grounds, and cemetery. The plantation was passed down through Tyler’s family for generations and is now open to the public for tours led by knowledgeable guides.
Sherwood Forest Plantation is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with guided tours on the ground to show you around.
Zachary Taylor (1784-1850)
The 12th U.S. President, Zachary Taylor, was born in Orange County, Virginia. He is best known for being a Mexican-American War hero and the only president who had slaves while in office. He served as president between 1849 and 1850.
Taylor’s boyhood home, Montebello, is now a state historic site that includes the main house, outbuildings, grounds, and cemetery. Visitors can take self-guided or guided tours of the property led by knowledgeable guides.
There are speculations that Zachary Taylor was born in Hare Forest Farm, orange county, Virginia, which belongs to her maternal grandfather.
Woodrow Wilson (1856-1924)
Photo by: David Brossard / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Source: Wikimedia Commons
The 28th U.S. President, Woodrow Wilson, was born in Staunton, Virginia. He is best known for leading the United States during World War I and creating the League of Nations. He served as president between 1913 and 1921.
Woodrow Wilson’s boyhood home, now called the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, is a state historic site that includes the main house, Pierce-arrow limousine, and a Museum.
The Woodrow Wilson Birthplace is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Monday – Saturday and 12:00 noon to 5:00 pm on Sunday. The facility is closed on holidays.
Final Thought
In addition to providing a fascinating glimpse into the past, these Virginia Presidential homes offer a unique opportunity to reflect on the present.
After all, as we walk through the same halls that served as the backdrop for momentous historical events, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our heritage.
These homes are a tangible reminder of the vital role that Virginia has played in shaping our nation’s history – and they will continue to engage and educate visitors for generations to come.
These homes and many others are available for tourists and buyers. You can get in touch with me for further information.
