Early Sketch of Monticello (Exterior)

An architectural drawing made by Thomas Jefferson sometime between 1769 and 1770 depicts the first plan for his plantation mansion: a two-story house with double porticoes, or porches, and classically inspired columns. This version of the house was finished about 1781 and then completely remodeled beginning in 1796.

Citation: Thomas Jefferson Early Sketch, ca. 1769–1770, of Monticello. Accession #5385-ae. Special Collections, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Va.