Monticello - which means "little mountain" and is one of this country's foremost architectural masterpieces - was designed by Thomas Jefferson, a man of extraordinary talents. Jefferson was well-versed not only in government and diplomacy, but also philosophy, music, architecture, and horticulture. His ingenuity extended to the exterior landscaping which included ornamental and vegetable gardens, orchards, vineyards, and over 160 varieties of trees.

Built on 1,000 acres of the 3,000 inherited from his father, Monticello 's design reveals Jefferson 's love of the graceful lines and domed contours of classical architecture. Neoclassism became fashionable in late 18 th century America, influenced by the Italian archaeological excavations at Pompeii and Herculaneum .

To escape the constant stream of visitors, Jefferson also designed and built a small retreat called Poplar Forest . This octagonal house was set in the midst of a 4,812 acre working farm. The living space occupied one floor in a series of elongated octagons surrounding a central cube. Jefferson delighted in Poplar Forest, calling his villa "the best dwelling house in the State."