Declaration House

This reconstructed house is the site where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

7th and Market Streets

Significance:

The site where Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence.

Designation:

National Historical Park

OPEN TO PUBLIC:

No

Amenities

4 listed

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Information - Ranger/Staff Member Present, Restroom, Wheelchair Accessible

The Declaration House is currently closed. However, the wayside signage on the fence provides an interesting glimpse into the development of the property over time, as well as its most-famous occupants, Thomas Jefferson and Robert Hemmings.

Thomas Jefferson resided here with his enslaved servant, Robert Hemmings, while drafting the Declaration of Independence. Working in rooms rented from bricklayer Jacob Graff, Jefferson drafted a declaration espousing the political ideas of enlightenment philosophers. In little more than two weeks, Jefferson finished his timeless defense of, "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Demolished in 1883, the house was reconstructed by the National Park Service in 1975.

While here, explore the exterior public art exhibition "The Descendants of Monticello" curated by Monument Lab in partnership with artist Sonya Clark. The exhibit features the eyes of Robert Hemmings' collateral descendants and others who are related to people enslaved at Jefferson's Monticello.