“Furnishing a New Nation” Specialty Tour

Conjectural Monroe house floorplan

The new Highland specialty tour, Furnishing a New Nation, examines the historical significance of the Monroes’ original furnishings and explores the use of style in early American politics. The rich collection of family pieces tells a compelling story of James and Elizabeth Monroe’s role in shaping the new nation for Americans, both free and enslaved. The 40-minute tour features pieces of an original collection that remained with Monroe’s descendants. It allows visitors to share the travels and experiences of the Monroe family, particularly diplomatic postings in Europe that began the path to the presidency. The Furnishing a New Nation tour will be offered on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, at 2:00 and 4:00 p.m.