The annual James Monroe Lecture is coming up on Monday, October 3 at 7 p.m. in the Great Hall! This year’s speaker is Susan Kern, professor at the College of William and Mary, and author of the important new book The Jeffersons at Shadwell. Merging archaeology, material culture, and social history, Kern’s talk will reconstruct the fascinating story of Shadwell, the birthplace of Thomas Jefferson. Located in present-day Albemarle County, Shadwell was at the time considered “the frontier.” The Jeffersons’ role in settling Virginia provides a new perspective on Thomas Jefferson and on others – including James Monroe – who extended social and political power across Virginia as they moved west.
The free talk will be followed by a book signing and dessert reception. The annual JM Lecture is sponsored by the Board, Friends and staffs of the following UMW departments: James Monroe Museum; Center for Historic Preservation; Department of Historic Preservation; Department of History and American Studies. Call (540) 654-1043 or e-mail auphaus@umw.edu with questions.
