Monticello Blog

During this special holiday season, Monticello’s online Shop has a gift for every age, style, and budget.

In 1762, Thomas Jefferson described Christmas as the “day of greatest mirth and jollity.” During this special holiday season, share the genius of Jefferson and Monticello with the people on your gift list! Monticello’s online Shop has a gift for every age, style, and budget.

Records rarely mention that the preparation, cooking, serving and cleanup for the meals enjoyed by Jefferson, his family and his guests was made possible by Monticello’s enslaved cooks and their families.

Jefferson was most likely not the first to introduce macaroni and cheese to America, nor did he invent the recipe. But he did write out a recipe for a 'macaroni' pasta dough, and he likely helped popularize the dish by serving what one guest to the President's House described as "a pie called macaroni."

Damaged Copper Cookware Imperils French-Style Cuisine at Monticello, 11 July 1824

In Jefferson’s time apples were especially valued for the making of cider.

From writing the Declaration of Independence to commissioning the Louisiana Purchase, Thomas Jefferson is one of the most influential figures in our presidential history. But strides toward social and political freedom were not the only things he made relevant during his two terms. We have Jefferson's unique taste to thank for popularizing some of the most beloved foods in American culture—think ice cream, mac 'n' cheese and even french fries.

No story illustrates Jefferson’s missionary zeal for plant experimentation or his devotion to American economic success better than his lifelong quest for upland rice.

I feel the tomato is the most generous plant of the summer. It always amazes me at how much product can come from a seed the size of a pencil head!

A classic viniagrette seems a likely staple at Monticello's table. From Dining at Monticello, edited by Damon Lee Fowler.