The Mere Distinction of Colour - A More Complete American Story
This provocative, multimedia exhibition offers visitors the opportunity to hear the stories of those enslaved at Montpelier told by their living descendants, and explore how the legacy of slavery impacts today’s conversations about race, identity, and human rights. Visitors will also see Montpelier’s connection to the national story of slavery – and discover the economic, ideological, and political factors that cemented the institution in the newly-created American nation and Constitution.
The permanent exhibition is located in the cellars of the Madison home and in the South Yard, adjacent to the House, where many would have lived. The Mere Distinction of Colour is the culmination of years of archaeological and historical research, culminating in an emotion, fact-based account of slavery's influence on, and the contributions of the enslaved to, the founding of our country.
"We have seen the Mere Distinction of Colour made in the most enlightened period of time, a ground of the most oppressive dominion ever exercised by man over man." - JAMES MADISON, 1787
Included in price of admission for any House tour.
Price Information
- Included in price of admission for House tour
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Last Updated: 10/26/2018
What's Nearby
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11350 Constitution Hwy
Montpelier Station, VA 229570 MI -
11350 Constitution Highway
Montpelier Station, VA 229570.02 MI -
11407 Constitution Hwy
Montpelier Station, VA 229570.19 MI
