Profile of the Day: James Madison

On this day in 1751, James Madison, the fourth President of the United States, was born at Belle Grove Plantation near Port Conway, Virginia.

Image: James Madison / Wikimedia Commons

Madison was the oldest of twelve children born to James Madison, Sr. and Eleanor “Nelly” Conway. His father served as a colonel in the militia during the American Revolutionary War. After reaching adulthood, Madison inherited Mount Pleasant, the largest tobacco plantation in the area. As he continued to acquire property over the years, he became the largest land owner in the county.

Named the “Father of the Constitution,” Madison was instrumental in drafting the historic document and laid the foundation for the Bill of Rights. In 1809, he was elected the fourth President of the United States and served two terms. After leaving office, Madison returned home to his family’s plantation. He died on June 28, 1836 at the age of 85.

Explore James Madison’s family tree on Geni and share your connection to the Founding Father.