A small writing desk with two pens joined side-by-side on a bar joined to a pantograph apparatus consisting of hinged arms, rollers, and springs all supported by a wooden frame.

Science and Technology

“ The fact is that one idea leads to another, that to a 3d, and so on thro' a course of time, until some one, with whom no one of these ideas was original, combines all together, and produces what is justly called a new invention”
Thomas Jefferson, 1818

Inventions

Visitors to Monticello often think of Jefferson as an inventor, but he was really more of an innovator. Rather than creating original ideas, Jefferson generally improved upon or adapted items already in existence.

Examples of Jefferson's Inventiveness

“ I am not afraid of new inventions or improvements...”
Thomas Jefferson, 1810

Innovations

Drawing on his experience in Europe, Jefferson's innovative use of windows and skylights flooded the house with light and masked the physical size of the structure

More on Innovations

Benjamin Franklin's lightning rods found a home at Monticello

Science and Exploration

Jefferson's writings reveal his lifelong promotion of invention and innovation, driven by his Age of Enlightenment belief that that the human condition could be continually improved. While Secretary of State, Jefferson granted the first American patent and his basic principles for granting copyrights remain in effect today.

“ Nobody wishes more than I do that ingenuity should receive liberal encouragement.”
Thomas Jefferson, 1807

Promoting Science, Technology, and Exploration

Thomas Jefferson and Robert Fulton were friends who shared many common interests and corresponded about inventions and projects, like the Erie Canal

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