Thomas Jefferson left his home at Monticello for Philadelphia to become Vice President of the United States in 1794. Ironically, this was after Jefferson had “retired” and shared his desire to remain politically ignorant and content at Monticello. He would become President in 1801.
Jefferson claimed that for fifty years he rose with the sun, as soon as he could see the hands of the clock mounting facing his bed. Part of his morning routine for sixty years was a cold footbath that Jefferson gave credit for his good health.
Thomas Jefferson: Recording the Weather
Each morning and again in the afternoon, Jefferson recorded the temperature, the direction of the wind, the speed of the wind and the amount of rain. He also noted seasonal signs like the migration of birds and the appearance of flowers. Jefferson wanted to create a national meteorological database.
Thomas Jefferson: Farming & More
Prior to coming out of his retirement to serve these political offices, Jefferson spent busy days at Monticello where he farmed and experimented with crop rotation. He also experimented with the use of dung as fertilizer, “one pint of which would manure an acre,” her wrote. Jefferson also managed a nail factory that he built that “employed” dozen of slaves. Another of Jefferson’s many pursuits at Monticello included beer brewing for “family use.
Thomas Jefferson: Inventor
Thomas Jefferson had many gifts and interests. He spent much of his time outdoors and that is reflected in his many inventions. Did you know that Thomas Jefferson invented a wall-mounted ladder? Jefferson believed that stairs were wasted space and used them sparingly in the homes he designed at Monticello and Poplar Forest.
Jefferson also made improvements to the working plow and invented a collapsible camp stool, an inflatable life preserver, a dumbwaiter and the swivel chair. What Jefferson never did on a typical day, was get a patent for any of his inventions.
Thomas Jefferson: Book Collector
Jefferson was an avid reader. His use of windows and mirrors in his homes was crucial to provide as much reading light as possible. Thomas Jefferson owned the largest private book collection in North America in his time. Jefferson collected books on history, philosophy and fine arts.
Thomas Jefferson: Food and Drink
Dinner was served at four o’clock and announced by a ringing bell. Records of Jefferson’s dinners mention beef, turkey, mutton and veal, all at one dinner. There is also mention of “a pie called macaroni” and ice cream. A recipe for “blanc mange” or almond cream, written in Jefferson’s own hand has survived. Jefferson was an importer of condiments such as Italian olive oil and French mustard. Wine and beer, considered a “table liquor” were also served.
