James Madisons Montpelier We The People Spring 2015 | Page 18

WE THE PEOPLE Calendar of Events Dolley Madison Legacy Luncheon The Presidential Detective Story Exhibit Gilmore Cabin and Farm On May 19, tip your hat to First Lady Dolley Madison at this elegant ladies’ luncheon on the mansion’s back lawn in commemoration of the 247th anniversary of Dolley’s birthday. Judy Woodruff, co-anchor and managing editor of PBS NewsHour, will deliver a talk entitled “First Ladies—The Real Power Brokers?” in her keynote address. Proceeds support the mansion refurnishing initiative. Architectural, archaeological, and curatorial objects identified through the Presidential Detective Story are now on display in the mansion’s second floor chambers. This exhibit illustrates the processes that our research teams employ to determine the authenticity and significance of our finds, as well as life at Montpelier in the early 19th century. Explore the home of George Gilmore, born into slavery at Montpelier in 1810, to visualize the life he built for his family after Emancipation. This rare example of an early freedman’s farm sheds light on the continuing struggle for African Americans in the reconstruction era. Special thanks to the Farkus Family Foundation for supporting the Gilmore Cabin and Farm programs this summer. Come see the pigs! For tickets or more information, please contact Karen Costello, 540-672-4370 or [email protected]. Montpelier is open SEVEN DAYS A WEEK! Grounds are free and open to the public during regular business hours. 18