Constitution Day at Montpelier

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Updated: 7:35 PM Sep 18, 2008 Constitution Day at Montpelier Wednesday was Constitution Day and what better way to spend the day than at the home of James Madison, the father of the constitution. Posted: 7:07 PM Sep 17, 2008 Reporter: Stephanie Satchell Email Address: stephanie.satchell@wcav.tv

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September 17, 2008

Wednesday was Constitution Day and what better way to spend the day than at the home of James Madison, the father of the constitution.

There was even more going on at Montpelier on Wednesday. Many were there to take a peak inside Madison’s home and see the results of the five year restoration project.

“This was a very troubled place when we first came here. It had all kinds of needs and very little money to do it,” said Richard Moe, President of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

After five years of hard work, the Montpelier Foundation has finally transformed the once 55 room mansion.

Today, it resembles the 26 room estate James Madison lived in many years ago.

“Montpelier restored is certainly beautiful, but it is in no sense the most fitting memorial to James Madison. If you're looking for Madison’s memorial look around. Look around at a free country governed by the rule of law,” said John Roberts, Jr., U.S. Chief Justice.

U.S. Representative Eric Cantor spoke at Tuesday’s event and says he's excited about the project's completion.

“I'm very humbled everyday, having the privilege to serve in the seat that was held by James Madison in Congress. Those are mighty big shoes to fill, but again, a real inspiration for all of us and a real honor to be here,” said Eric Cantor, Representative, U.S. Congress, 7th District.

The celebration was a chance to help visitors pay tribute to Madison’s lasting legacy.

“I've always loved history and I especially became interested in James Madison when I did come to Montpelier. It didn't look like it did today; it had pink stucco. I've been coming back ever since. I've just been so interested in the father of our constitution,” said Hadley Nagel, who attended Constitution Day.

Speakers at the program included Governor Tim Kaine, Chief Justice John Roberts, Jr. and Representative Eric Cantor.

Latest Comments

Posted by: Tim Location: Tampa, FL on Sep 17, 2008 at 09:04 PM

Tuesday (September 16th) was not Constitution Day. Constitution Day is September 17th, the date in 1787 on which the constitution was signed in Philadelphia.

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