With its intriguing and educational exhibits and tours, a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest is the perfect family activity for a beautiful May afternoon. With that, Poplar Forest is excited to provide the public with a full line up of family friendly activities during the month of May.
May is National Historic Preservation Month, sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. As part of the national celebration, Poplar Forest will join other sites to educate the public about the importance of historic preservation and restoration. For the next two Saturdays, May 11 and May 18, restoration craftsmen will demonstrate historic construction methods in the house from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. The craftsmen will discuss topics such as antique tools, historic lumber and moldings as well as how to make simple tools. Be sure to tour the house and grounds to learn more about Mr. Jefferson’s true architectural masterpiece.
Still searching for ideas for Mother’s Day? Do not fret! Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest is offering free admission for mothers on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12. Explore Mr. Jefferson’s retreat and view the plantation in full bloom for spring. Experience the solitude and relaxation Mr. Jefferson enjoyed at his retreat home. We are sure your mother will appreciate it! There will also be living history interpreters in Jefferson’s kitchen from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. talking about period food preparation and cooking. Tours will be available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
If you are looking for an exciting program sure to please the whole family, sign up for Stargazing on Saturday, May 18 at 8 p.m. Bring your family and experience the night sky Jefferson-style, at his secluded retreat. Talk and stargaze with Dr. Neal Sumerlin, Retired Founding Director of the Belk Observatory at Lynchburg College as well as the Blue Ridge Astronomy Club and the Lynchburg Astronomy Club. Dr. Sumerlin will talk about “Thomas Jefferson’s Universe — and Ours” and look at the state of knowledge of astronomy in Jefferson’s time, and what we have learned since. Also, get an opportunity to peer through a telescope and see for yourself what’s in the night sky! Admission is $5.00. Ages 18 and under are free. Reservations required. Please call the Museum Shop at (434) 534-8120 to reserve a space.
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Poplar Forest is a National Historic Landmark recently added to the United States nominations to become a World Heritage Site. The property is regarded as an important example of historic restoration and archaeological research, and is open for tours, events and school programs daily March 15 through December 30, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. Poplar Forest is also open for “Winter Weekends” mid-January through mid-March. Closed on Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. For more information, visit www.poplarforest.org or call (434) 525-1806.
