Today, Montpelier is home to a two-acre
terraced garden, similar to the one that was in place in the 20th
century during the duPont’s ownership of the estate. A restoration
of the duPont garden area took place beginning in 1990 under the
direction of the Garden Club of Virginia. Vibrant colors and intricate
landscaping can now be witnessed when touring the garden.
Along with the lush gardens, a 200-acre
National Natural Landmark Forest is found at Montpelier. The forest
is home to an original Madison era road and has largely been untouched
by man. Much like the woodlands in the time of Madison, the Landmark
Forest is a preservation of the past and gives insight into what
Madison may have seen while living at Montpelier. On April 14,
2000, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, which owns
Montpelier, placed the land under a perpetual easement with The
Nature Conservancy, in an attempt to help protect this unique
forest for future generations. Two miles of hiking trails have
also been opened to the public.
Photographs by Ken Newbold and Mark Sties (James Madison Center)
with permission of Montpelier.
