Friday Field Days with Poplar Forest Archaeology

Talks every Friday at 1:30 p.m.Join Poplar Forest’s Department of Archaeology and Landscapes every Friday at 1:30 PM through November 21 for an in-depth look into their current excavations and what they are learning about the people who lived in and around the 1857 Slav......More

Talks every Friday at 1:30 p.m.Join Poplar Forest’s Department of Archaeology and Landscapes every Friday at 1:30 PM through November 21 for an in-depth look into their current excavations and what they are learning about the people who lived in and around the 1857 Slave Dwelling. While the 1857 Slave Dwelling was built after Jefferson’s lifetime, it is historically important as it is the only original dwelling built for enslaved people still standing on the property. As part of the 1857 Slave Dwelling Restoration Project’s efforts to stabilize, research, and restore this structure with the community, we invite you to visit our archaeologists to see what they are finding and learning about the people who lived here. Friday Field Days are included with regular admission which can be purchased in advance here. Admission to the property includes either a docent-guided or self-guided tour of Jefferson’s retreat home, access to exhibits in the lower level and wing of offices of the villa retreat, and outdoor exhibits throughout the property.

Jefferson's Curiosities: Shakespeare

Thomas Jefferson was a man of many varied interests.  Join us at the house he deemed “the best dwelling house in the state” as we delve into topics he found particularly fascinating: from the arts to agriculture, literature to wine, philosophy to natural sciences, and m......More

Thomas Jefferson was a man of many varied interests.  Join us at the house he deemed “the best dwelling house in the state” as we delve into topics he found particularly fascinating: from the arts to agriculture, literature to wine, philosophy to natural sciences, and more. Each talk in the series includes a wine and cheese reception following the presentation. Tickets are $25/each or $80 for all four Curiosities Series talks. Jefferson quite literally grew up with the works of William Shakespeare. His father owned a collection of his work and Jefferson continued to study, read, and watch Shakespeare’s works throughout his life. It should come as no surprise that these works of history and drama would be deeply influential to Thomas Jefferson throughout his life. Join us for this fascinating look into Shakespeare’s works and how they may have influenced one of  the most important documents in American history, the Declaration of Independence. Local director and Shakespeare expert, Melora Kordos will join us to highlight some of the scenes that may have influenced Jefferson most. Hear about Jefferson’s love of Shakespeare and watch as some key scenes from Shakespeare’s work acted out on stage. Following the performance and talk, you can interact with Melora and the cast at a wine and cheese reception in the lower level of the house. Botany & Friendship: March 27, 2025 6:30 p.m.Jefferson and the VA Wine Industry: May 5, 2025 6:30 p.m.Music: June 13, 2025 6:30 p.m.

Roots and Reconnection Festival

Join the Poplar Forest’s African American Advisory Group, interpretation and archaeology staff, and the Board of Directors for the Roots and Reconnection Festival, a special event to honor, celebrate, and educate about the life, culture, and history of the enslaved Afri......More

Join the Poplar Forest’s African American Advisory Group, interpretation and archaeology staff, and the Board of Directors for the Roots and Reconnection Festival, a special event to honor, celebrate, and educate about the life, culture, and history of the enslaved Africans who lived and worked on the plantation, as well as the culture and life of African Americans today. This festival highlights the profound connection between the past and the present, providing a unique opportunity to reflect on and celebrate our rich heritage. What to Expect: Music and Dance: Enjoy vibrant musical and dance performances showcasing the talent and creativity of the African American community.Exhibits and Tours: Explore informative exhibits and participate in tours that offer deep insights into plantation life and the evolution of African American culture.Food and Celebration: Savor a variety of food while celebrating the rich culture of African Americans.Conversations: Engage in meaningful conversations that promote understanding and appreciation of our shared history and its impact on the present.  Admission to the Roots and Reconnection Festival is free and open to the public. Food vendors will be onsite selling lunch throughout the day.Vendors Needed: If you’re interested in becoming a vendor, please complete an online vendor application.

Poplar Forest, 1776 Poplar Forest Parkway, Lynchburg, VA, 24502, United States

Naturalization Ceremony

Join Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the Blue Ridge Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) to witness a Naturalization Ceremony welcoming 30 new American citizens in honor of Constitution Day, the day in 1787 the American Const......More

Join Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the Blue Ridge Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) to witness a Naturalization Ceremony welcoming 30 new American citizens in honor of Constitution Day, the day in 1787 the American Constitution was signed into law. Admission to the ceremony is included with general admission to Poplar Forest.

Poplar Forest, 1776 Poplar Forest Parkway, Lynchburg, VA, 24502, United States