The Domestic Life of Thomas Jefferson

by Sarah Nicholas Randolph

Book Overview

Jefferson's life at Monticello compiled from family letters and reminiscences by his great-granddaughter, Sarah N. Randolph.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0813907187
• ISBN13: 9780813907185
• Release Date: January 1978
• Publisher: University of Virginia Press
• Length: 452 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 8.3" x 11.2"
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

An extraordinary life through his letters and others

Jefferson was a giant, and this book chronicles his extraordinary life through his letters and the letters of others, lovingly assembled and edited by his great-granddaughter. At various points, it is moving and tearful; elsewhere it is joyous and humorous. At all times, Jefferson's seemingly-unlimited talents and brilliance, as well as his qualities as a decent human being and his erudition, shine forth. The greats of American history come alive through their correspondence and Jefferson's letters to others: Washington, Franklin, Adams, Madison, Monroe, Henry and Hamilton, to name just a few. Also, Lafayette and Bonaparte of France. We witness firsthand the American Revolution, this nation's founding, Jefferson's years in Paris, the French Revolution, and his presidency. However, perhaps three things stand out most of all: the depth of his love for his family and the meticulous care with which he nurtured each family member; his love for Monticello and his desire to return there and be rid of the burdens of public office; and his relationship with John Adams that, once breached, is finally restored at the end of their lives. Remarkably, both presidents died on the 4th of July, 1826. To paraphrase the words of Jefferson, two "Argonauts" sailed on, leaving this country forever changed and better because they had passed here. "I steer my bark with Hope in the head, leaving Fear astern," Jefferson wrote to Adams in 1816. From being Secretary of State and Vice President to two terms in the presidency, involving the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Jefferson never lost his love for or his belief in this great country. He was a farmer; he was a scholar; he was a scientist; he was a diplomat; he was a leader and a politician; he was an accomplished horseman who was faithful to his belief in the need for at least two hours of exercise each day; he was a husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather; and he loved music, birds and his gardens in Albemarle County, Virginia. And he was an American.

A picture of Jefferson through his letters

This biography was written by Jefferson's grandaughter to show "the beauties and charms of his domestic character." It is primarily through using his letters, which include over the years, those to his daughters, grandchildren, his sons-in-law, Layfayette, John Adams, Madison, lady friends in France, and others. The circumstances under which these were written are described.Interesting to me were new insights into why Jefferson continued to serve in politics when he found it repugnant, his observations about the the French Revolution and Napolean, and his great affection and fatherly advice on health, education, and character building found in the letters to his daughters, and some grandchildren. In one instance, he discusses raising chickens. He also describes the pain of losing his wife and child, and a grandchild, to Abigail Adams. Puts a little more flesh on the events, and on a giant of the 19th century. Good book to read in spirts.