Facts About the Stables
Jefferson was said to be "passionately fond of a good horse." The stables—once much larger—housed his finest riding and carriage horses.
Jefferson owned two horses descended from Diomed, an early Thoroughbred horse, pictured here in a painting after George Stubbs. (Courtesy, Clark Art Institute)
Enslaved stablehands cared for the animals, mucked the stalls, and maintained saddles, harnesses, carts, and carriages. (Pictured: horse shoe uncovered on Mulberry Row)
Before his daily ride, Jefferson inspected his horse with a white handkerchief, demanding immaculate cleanliness. (Pictured: stirrups, horseshoes, and snaffle bit uncovered on Mulberry Row)
People to Know: Jupiter Evans
Jupiter Evans and Thomas Jefferson grew up together, but Evans was also Jefferson’s property. (Pictured: Shadwell, birthplace of Jupiter Evans and Thomas Jefferson, by Russell Smith, 1844)
Evans served as Jefferson’s valet. They traveled across Virginia and found wives on the same plantation. (Pictured: "View from Monticello Looking Toward Charlottesville" by Jane Braddick Peticolas, 1825)
Later, Evans cared for Jefferson’s fine horses and drove his carriage. He died suddenly at age 57. (Pictured: Detail from "Sketchbook of Landscapes in the State of Virginia" by Lewis Miller, ca. 1850, Colonial Williamsburg Foundation)
Monticello guide Justin Bates on Jupiter Evans, Jefferson's enslaved personal attendant and hostler.
Jefferson's Daily Ride
Running time: 5:36
How the Stables Changed Over Time
Digital recreation of the Stable as it would have looked in 1793. (Created by RenderSphere, LLC for Monticello)
In 1808, the wood buildings were replaced with stone structures and an L-shaped addition was made. (Created by RenderSphere, LLC for Monticello)
The Stables in the early 20th century prior to damage from a cyclone in 1927.
The Stable just prior to restoration in 2014.
The Stone Stables' original roofline being recreated.
The reconstruction Stone Stables in 2017.
Archaeology at the Stables Prior to Restoration
Installing Animal Silhouettes at the Stone Stables
Running time: 2:43