All buildings are authentic and were moved from their original Blue Ridge locations. Heirloom vegetables flourish in the gardens, vintage breeds of livestock shelter by the barn, and costumed interpreters work at farm and household chores true to early life in the region. Both historical and contemporary folkways engage the visitor in the Institute's Museum Galleries. Two rotating exhibits showcase the rich texture of Virginia folklife in music, crafts, art and customs. The Museum Galleries are the only facilities in the Commonwealth dedicated exclusively to the presentation of traditional culture.
Admission is free.
It was from this unlikely beginning that Washington achieved international recognition as an educator, orator, unofficial presidential advisor, founder of Tuskegee Institute and African-American leader. Begin your tour of his birthplace by watching the slide show and seeing the exhibits at the visitors center. This is the most famous attraction in Franklin County and with good reason. From the beautiful, restored farm and its animals to the hike up Plantation Trail, this monument offers a scenic, historic sojourn into a time when slavery was a way of life in America. The site is open daily 9 AM to 5 PM, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.