Ash Lawn-Highland, home of President James Monroe, will host a two-day event Presidents’ Day weekend, February 17 and 18 from 1-5pm.  On this special day, Ash Lawn-Highland will celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Abolition of the Slave Trade; and offer a new program, Middle Passage, especially designed for children. 

Middle Passage, abolitionist name for the ship crossing from Africa, will be presented by Ash Lawn-Highland interpreter Alison Gay, who will discuss the economic motivations behind the “traffic of men” and the impact on the lives of those who were forced to embark for the new world.  Emphasis will be placed on James Monroe’s involvement in the politics of the trade’s demise.

In addition, visitors will be greeted by President James Monroe, as interpreted by Dennis Bigelow, who will share his favorite memories as fifth President.  James Monroe’s presidency marked the end of the revolutionary era and the emergence of a generation of Americans with a new vision for the country.

Ash Lawn-Highland is open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM April-October, and 11AM to 5PM November-March.  Tours are $10 for adults ($9 for seniors and AAA members) and $5 for children (ages 6 to 11) and local residents (Albemarle, Augusta, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Nelson, Orange, and Rockingham counties).  Ash Lawn-Highland is located off I-64, exit 121, past Jefferson’s Monticello at 1000 James Monroe Parkway.  For information, contact Ash Lawn - Highland at 434-293-9539 or visit www.ashlawnhighland.org.