james madison museum

Jjjjam

Montpelier is not as well-known as many Virginia historical sites, but is well worth a day's visit. We took the "Slave Tour" which was a two hour tour as opposed to the regular one hour tour. I don't know that I thought it was that enlightening about the lives of the slaves -- the person who talks about the slaves' life at Monticello is more knowledgeable and this person was too busy being an apologist for the social system rather than a historian. However, the tour of the house and the look into the life, times and mind of James Madison was most interesting. And, information about Dolley Madison is always interesting. Also a stop by the duPont room that was removed from the main house to the museum area during the renovations was worth a look. I appreciate the donation by the Rubinstein's Foundation to continue the work at this site. We all could stand to learn what our founding fathers envisioned for this nation. Nice gift shop. I do wish they would improve the food in the cafeteria, however. It must be the same food service as for Monticello and not very good food or service.

MaryAnneH2

We live in the area & take all our visitors to this attraction! So many things to see & do. Stroll the property, come watch the sheep trials, enjoy the terrier races, soak in the free info about the area, supplement your knowledge of our country's history, have a picnic! This is an ongoing project of restoration & renovation. Very kid friendly! (Should be required trip for every school child.)

enbjay

A bit off the beaten path. Not (nearly) as well-known as semi-nearby Monticello, but interesting in its own right, as home of one of the principal authors of the Constitution. Continuing renovation most interesting. Beautiful grounds.

earthenergy

Documents and actual items of common use by the author of the US Constitution. It's an amazing museum. Don't pass by without stopping in. Good for school aged children. .. So much more interesting than a history book.

1SharronP1

This free museum (donations welcome) provided information about the history of the whole area, and had artifacts from antique teddy bears to farm equipment and a model T Ford. I even got great deals on books to read later.

83RickM

This is a wonderful museum that tells us much about a great couple who were products of their time. Their home has been lovingly restored and the film before you see the house is a helpful summary of James and Dolley's lives. Walk the grounds. They are beautiful. Whatever you do, do not miss the café/restaurant. They offer a ham sandwich concoction that is out of this world.The museum continues to excavate and develop the property to bring it back to its original state.We went in October and the leaves were perfection! Go, enjoy and learn something about our founding fathers and mothers that will astound you.

537LAURAT

This was a very informative museum. We enjoyed it and learn a lot about the Madison's and their presidency.

oprbc

I come here with guests often. The guides are amazing with their knowledge of Pres and Mrs Madison. They give you so many facts, not personal preferences about the Madisons. The articles they display are so interesting to see. From the Campeche chair that Jefferson gave Madison, to Dollie's snuffbox, you will love seeing personal items belonging to the Madisons. This museum owns more actual Madison personal articles than Montpelier (home of James Madison) own. So go to The Madison Museum and meet the Madison family.

CentralVAHarp

I loved looking into Dolley Madison's oval, gilded, full-length mirror and imagined I was the first true U.S. Hostess as First Lady! However, I did not like that this museum will not give their stuff to Montpelier, her home!

Brenita_10

I had not realized the depth of friendship that existed between James Madison and Thomas Jefferson. It would be a good thing if everyone had a friend in their life that brought out the best in them--as these men did for each other. We were privileged to visit on a cool autumn day, coming away with a deep appreciation for Mr. Madison, his wife Dolly, and their desire for our country.

HennR

The package consisting of the visitor's center, the introductory movie and visit to the mansion and grounds left me with a much better understanding of what the "Father of The Constitution" accomplished for our Nation. The combination of wealth, a good woman, studious nature, good education, high principles, an ability to lead 'til it is done, and an unwavering commitment to our Nation produced a document that changed the World. Kudos to the National Trust for Historic Preservation for a well done work that is still in progress. Impressive!

tonic327

Our tour guide was well versed and detailed many interesting facts about the Madison family. It was a wonderful experience. We did the "in Depth tour" I would recommend any of the tours! You'll never get any of this in a history book and you'll go away with new respect for our Founding Fathers.

drtaxsacto84

In one sense this small local museum is misnamed. It has some Madison things but also a lot of history. But we thought it was great fun. The museum guide was wonderful! Go to Montpelier but then go here.

Ruesley

I am sure that Montpelier will appreciate your review. James Madison's Montpelier is the site you should look for.The James Madison Museum was established and opened for the Bicentennial. We have nearly 13,000 square feet of exhibits that include belongings of James and Dolley Madison (which we do share with other museums), a large Hall of Agriculture and Transportation and numerous and varied treasures from the 1700's onward through Orange and rural Virginia history.Admission is only $5.00 (age 6 and over). We are 4 miles from the gates of Montpelier.

z350tom-OK

Montpelier is a beautiful property. The site you want is "James Madison's Montpelier".The James Madison Museum is located in the Town of Orange, 4 miles from the gates of Montpelier. Opened in 1976, the museum holds many treasurers of Orange and rural Virginia history and has a nice collection of personal belongings of James/Dolley Madison; which we share with other museums.It is only $5.00 per person (age 6 and over) and we are open Tuesday - Saturday, 11:00 am - 5:00 pm.