It’s not often that historic locations have their stories rewritten, at least not in a factual way. But Highland - formerly Ashlawn-Highland - is one of Virginia’s most recent examples. For decades this home was interpreted as the official residence of President James Monroe and his family and millions over that time would visit this Charlottesville landmark along with adjoining Monticello. 

But it was discovered recently that this was not the exact home that Monroe lived in, rather being built after the president’s time on the property. It puts the College of William & Mary in a tough interpretive spot as now the home is more of a museum to the life of the former president and not an official presidential home. Still, it’s hard not to be impressed with the grounds - the long and winding country road leading to the property, the maze of fragrant Boxwoods and the vista of the Blue Ridge foothills always in view.