This small museum houses and interprets a collection of historical documents and archives on James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States. Visitors to the museum, for a small fee, can tour exhibits relating to the life and impact of James Monroe. This museum is built upon the site where James Monroe maintained a law office between the years of 1786 and 1789.
In the rolling green fields of Montpelier, Virginia, just north of Richmond, sits the historic home of Patrick Henry. Scotchtown is attractive for history buffs, gardeners, patriots, and families with children looking for a fun and educational afternoon trip. The grounds are ideal for a country picnic, and as no food is served on the premises, it is appropriate to pack a lunch.
Parking and Public Transportation to Scotchtown
Scotchtown offers ample parking in their own lot, but as the location is not near the city of Richmond or the town of Ashland, there is no public transportation available. The drive through the countryside is part of the appeal of a visit to Scotchtown.
Best and Worst Times to Visit Scotchtown
Scotchtown is only open to visitors Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and during special events. Appointments can be made ahead of time, and this is likely the best option if you plan to visit in a group. Otherwise, Friday mornings between 10:00 AM and Noon are often the best times to visit because there are few visitors and the summer weather is nicest earlier in the day. It is advisable to call ahead and check for special events, as Scotchtown sometimes hosts stargazing evenings or other family friendly activities outside of their normal hours.
Admission to Scotchtown
Members of Preservation Virginia do not pay for tours. General admission is $8 per person, though many discounts are offered. Senior citizens pay $6, AAA members $7, Students $5, and children under 6 are free. Group pricing is available at $5 per person when arrangements are made at least one week in advance, and a group may make an appointment to visit outside of normal hours if the total is more than $100.
Must See at Scotchtown
The tour is informative and entertaining, including the house and outbuildings. The vegetable garden is outstanding, and the Scotchtown grounds are stunning in their pastoral beauty. During the spring and summer, with the trees and flowers blooming and the garden at its best, it is worth the visit to see the greenery alone.
Other Places to Visit Near Scotchtown
The nearest town to Scotchtown is Ashland, Virginia. Downtown Ashland is a charming strip of boutique shops and restaurants that runs along the railroad tracks. A stroll down the historic streets is a fitting accompaniment to a Scotchtown visit.
Insider Tip for Visitors to Scotchtown
Wear bug spray. You're going to spend a lot of time outside, and ticks and mosquitoes both live in the grass and gardens. Also, no photography is allowed inside the buildings due to insurance concerns, but you're free to take as many pictures as you'd like outside.
Author's bio: Kitty Lusby is an author and self proclaimed adventurer from the Richmond, Virginia area. She believes that travel is a necessity and does it as often as possible.
This historic estate was the final residence of Gari Melchers, an obscure, but decorated, naturalist painter who enjoyed his heyday in the late 19th and early 20th century. This estate, overlooking the Rappahannock River in Falmouth, today hosts a museum covering the history of the estate and displays a gallery of paintings. The property also hosts walking paths.
The Rising Sun Tavern was originally built in the mid-1700s and became a bustling tavern in the late 1700s. Its original owner was Charles Washington, George Washington's brother. These days, the building serves as an interpretation of what a colonial tavern looked like back in the 18th century. Visitors can mingle with "tavern wenches" to a backdrop of colonial antiques, all while learning more about the history of Fredericksburg.
