James Monroe's Highland

James Monroe’s Highland is a public historic site in Albemarle County. The fifth U.S. president lived at Highland sporadically from 1799 to 1826, and its consistent residents were several dozen enslaved men, women, and children. Today the property encompasses over 500 acres and offers rustic trails as well as historic site visits. Highland is owned and operated by William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Highland's focus is exploring and sharing the diverse stories that come from the events that happened during this time, and the lived experiences of all men and women who lived here. Our work is carried out with input from members of a Descendants Advisory Council whose ancestors were enslaved on the property. There is a great effort now to peel back the layers of history to uncover Highland’s complete past.