Episode 2 Itinerary: Explore Lesser-Known History (Agriculture and Outdoor Spaces)
In the second episode of Founding Footprints: Tracing America’s Journey in Charlottesville & Albemarle County, we hear about recent research and exhibits at James Monroe’s Highland. Our understanding of history in Central Virginia is deeply entwined with the physical landscape, whether that’s through archaeology, traditions of agriculture, or ongoing stewardship and discovery of natural spaces.
We’ve put together an itinerary that helps you explore this lesser-known history and how it continues to influence our sense of place and community in Charlottesville and Albemarle County.
Listen to the Founding Footprints podcast HERE or on your favorite audio streaming platform.
Itinerary Length: 2.5 – 3 days
Day 1: James Monroe's Highland
Originally from Virginia’s Northern Neck, James Monroe started purchasing land in Albemarle County just as his political career was reaching greater heights. The Monroe family resided at Highland sporadically between 1799 and 1826. They were often called away. In those 25 years, Monroe served as Governor of Virginia, envoy to France, Minister to England and Spain, Secretary of State, and 5th President of the United States.
Today, James Monroe’s Highland defines itself as “a historic place with an ongoing story.” It interprets the histories of all who lived on the property and acts as a laboratory for uncovering history. Highland is part of William & Mary, James Monroe’s alma mater. 2025 marks its 50th anniversary of being open to the public as a museum.
1. Tour the Property
2. Hike the Trails
Discover the Highland Rustic Trails system. Truly a hidden gem; the trails offer options for novices and experienced hikers. Take a breather at Highland’s Museum Shop where you can find unique gifts in the Virginia Artisans Room and honey from the Highland Bee Project.
3. Attend an Event
Check Highland’s calendar for upcoming talks, journaling workshops, and trail open days for dogs and their owners.
Plan to participate in one of Highland’s popular annual events, such as the July concert with the Heifetz International Music Institute, after-hours tours during the winter holidays, spring sheep shearing, or Descendants Day.
Albemarle County Fair & VA250 Mobile Museum
Expect to see livestock animals, agricultural products and home crafts, and historic demonstrations when Highland plays host to the Albemarle County Fair July 31 – August 2, 2025.The VA250 Mobile Museum Experience: Out of Many, One will also be on site July 31 – August 2!
Monroe & Lafayette: A Reunion
On August 16, 2025, Highland will commemorate the bicentennial of the Marquis de Lafayette’s 1825 return tour to the United States and his lifelong friendship with James Monroe. Read our blog to learn more about Lafayette 200 and ways to enjoy French culture in the Charlottesville area.
Wish Them Happy Birthday
Celebrate Highland’s 50th anniversary by visiting other local organizations founded in 1975, including Heartwood Books, Integral Yoga Natural Foods, Ivy Nursery, and McGuffey Art Center.
Day 2: Farms - Big & Small
Albemarle County remains predominately rural and ranks among the top producers of fruit and cattle, as well as horse farms, in the Commonwealth of Virginia. In addition to traditional farms, backyard and community gardens in both the City and County support a network of small growers and makers.
1. Take in the Farmers Market Scene
Meet the vendors who help keep agriculture a key facet of the community.
Charlottesville City Market and Market Central at Ix are two of the largest gatherings. Combine a scenic drive with visits to seasonal farmers markets in Crozet, North Garden, northern Albemarle, and Scottsville. You can find market details here.
2. Seek Out These Shops
Visit Farmstead Ferments, Feast, and Found for artisanal foods and fun shopping experiences in older, repurposed buildings. Batesville Market, Greenwood Gourmet Grocery, and Polly’s Folly are also great options for finding farm products.
3. Experience Innovative Farms
Devote part of your day to supporting local farms, including
- Chisholm Vineyards at Adventure Farm, where they raise cattle and estate-grown wines;
- Oakencroft Farm & Winery; which serves as a carbon sink model; and
- Thistlerock Mead Company, where they focus on regenerative agriculture and apiculture.
Bellair Farm, Caromont Farm, and Nealand Farm regularly host public days and special activities that encourage visitors to connect with farm life.
Pine Knot was the rustic retreat of Edith and Theodore Roosevelt during Roosevelt's presidency and post-presidency. Purposedly left simple -- no electricity, plumbing, or interior finishes, Pine Knot was a place for the Roosevelts to spend time in nature, with family, and to recharge from hectic political and social life. Today, the cottage, is located on more than 90 acres of wildlife habitat, surrounded by several thousand acres of preserved farmland. It is open by appointment.
4. Reserve a Tour
Make an advance reservation to see Pine Knot for yourself.
Day 3: The Rivanna River
The Rivanna River meanders for 46 miles between the Blue Ridge mountains and the James River. It has fostered farming, fishing, and community development for millennia. It’s the river you see from the mountaintop at Monticello, or as you drive south into Charlottesville on Route 29, or attend a Rivanna Roots concert at the Rivanna River Company. It was designated as a Virginia Scenic River in 1975. What’s in a name? The James and Rivanna Rivers honor the first and last Stuart monarchs. They serve as a reminder: at the time of the Revolutionary War, Virginia had been a British colony for over 160 years.
1. Acknowledge the Monacan Indian Nation
Learn more about the Monacan People, the Indigenous custodians of the land and waters in and around Charlottesville.
2. Visit Ivy Creek Natural Area & Historic River View Farm
3. Get Your Hands On History
Book an appointment at the Lewis & Clark Exploratory Center (LCEC) to learn about the Corps of Discovery through journaling, map-making, photography, crafts, and outdoor activities. The site includes replicas of watercraft used in the expedition. Did you know? Meriwether Lewis was born in Ivy, just west of Charlottesville. William Clark's family once owned the land where the LCEC is today.
Look for future episodes of Founding Footprints and make your travel plans now. Charlottesville and Albemarle County offer a variety of places to stay including resorts, inns, B&Bs, hotels, and vacation rentals – so you can book the lodging that aligns with your travel preferences.