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Albemarle County, Charlottesville, fall, fall garden, Fralin Museum, Grounds at the University, landscape design, photography, the University, Thomas Jefferson, University of Virginia, Virginia
Although I have resided near Monticello and UVA on-and-off for more than thirty years, I never took the time to stroll with Mr. Jefferson on his Grounds at the University of Virginia—until yesterday. Even though a slight drizzle was about, the light was simply divine for photography, and my time had come.
Fortunate to find parking near Grounds this holiday weekend, I first visited the Ansel Adams exhibition at the Fralin Museum, then took off towards the majestic landscape and buildings known as “an Academical Village.”

The Rotunda is the focal point of the Academical Village and is modeled after the Pantheon in Rome. The Village is comprised of ten faculty pavilions; the Pavilion Gardens; student rooms along both sides of the East and West Ranges; and six Hotels which served as dining halls. These buildings continue to be used as Jefferson intended.

inside the Rotunda, the former library housed a collection of books initially selected by Jefferson himself.

Jefferson’s favorite view of the South Lawn through the portico’s double inside glass doors. He visited here one last time only days before this death.

Cleverly placed bookcases in the Dome Room disappear behind the room’s columns when viewed from the center of the room

another view of the complex staircase leading to the Dome Room. The restoration took four months to complete.

The East Oval Room, originally a lecture hall, is now the meeting chamber of the governing body, the Board of Visitors.

pine doors are given their inlaid mahogany appearance by a painting process called “graining.” This was a very popular technique used during the 19th century. Inexpensive, local woods could be used, sidestepping the costs of imported versions.

two small ovens were discovered during the 1970’s restoration of the Rotunda. This confirms that the Lower East Oval Room was the site of early chemistry classes.
We must not forget that without the hundreds of laborers, both free and enslaved, neither Monticello nor the University would exist.
To all those unnamed, you are not forgotten.
Copyright © 2013 by Diane LaSauce All Rights Reserved
Really enjoyed your UVA photographs. I am new in town, came here May 1, 2017, and have not yet enjoyed the University, except for its theatre and medical facilities. Janet Beals Orejudos
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thescottishcountrygarden
Thanks Diane. Well, I enjoyed my visit to the University of Virginia – what a splendid place and what marvelous grounds – a real feeling of space. Most interesting contrast to the University of Edinburgh where I spend most of my life when not gardening! Excellent photography too. I think Fall in Virginia and South East Scotland is pretty much tracking at the moment…
sent via comments…
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Thanks so much for that – I’ve never been there and its nice to travel courtesy of the internet. Particularly liked that glorious picture of the tree at the beginning – and, yes, the walls!
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Cathy, thanks for stopping by. Your gardens are indeed a challenge! Great for goats though! 😉
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Audacious tour Diane. I am transported. You can see Jefferson’s influence all over this place. Thanks for the guided tour…
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So glad you enjoyed strolling with TJ, Chris.
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The grounds are absolutely stunning, you did a wonderful job of capturing it all in your photos.
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Wow! Thanks for the fabulous tour, Diane. What a great journey on the campus through your wonderful photographs. I, too, love the undulating brick walls – quite unexpected. I love architecture and you really captured it.
Jeanne
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Thank you so very much for this visit! It is very beautiful and it must be extra delightful to study there!
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I feel I have been on a very sweet vacation as I walked the grounds with you. Lovely photos. Lovely words. I learned so much ….I need to visit there.
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Great photographs! You’re right. The lighting was splendid!
Lucia
~sent via email
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That was indeed a big slice of information. I never knew that this university was on the UNESCO list and now I know why. This place is exceptionally well maintained and has showcased exquisite design at all possible corners. Your pictures and the little notes speak a lot that is undoubtedly interesting. Thank you for sharing!!!!
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Thank you raastha for your kind comments.
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Diane, have not had time to read this UVA blog but it is a spectacular photographic coverage. Excellent reportage and excellent way to enjoy a rainy day. I am saving this for future reference. And thanks for other lovely photos and comments.
Ann
~sent via email
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A wonderful story is told along with beautifully lit photos. The fretwork alone is astounding. TJ surely lives on.
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Indeed the mind of Mr. Jefferson is laudable. And thanks to generations of preservation work, it lives today. Thank you for your kind comments.
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Thanks much for a tour of Jefferson’s creation. Loved it.
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What an awesome post! Great photos and a wonderful history lesson. The architecture is spectacular. Thanks for sharing!
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Thanks for your kind comments! Indeed Mr. Jefferson’s legacy is rich in both thought and deed.
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Very nicely done.
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