SALE OF ASH LAWN
As is well known, Monroe’s life was straitened by debt. Under this pressure, he wrote to Jefferson as early as 1814 of a plan to sell either his Loudon estate or that in Albemarle, adding:
“intending however, not to sell that in Albemarle unless the price be such as to indemnify me for the sacrifice I shall make in relinquishing a residence of 26 years’ standing, as mine has been, and near old friends to whom I am greatly attached.” Writings, Vol. V, p. 287.
The sale finally took place, January 1st, 1826, the price being $18,140. The Monroes then resided at Oak Hill in Loudon County. In 1828 Mr. Monroe removed to New York City, where his death occurred, July 4th, 1831. His body was re-interred at Richmond, Virginia, July 5th, 1858.