Poplar Forest

This property was the tranquil escape of Thomas Jefferson, one of the United States Founding Fathers. Today, it is a museum used to educate the public about the history behind it.

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest is a museum located in Forest, Virginia. It’s a plantation and plantation house that was conceptualized by Thomas Jefferson after inheriting the grounds in 1773. The Poplar Forest today has the mission to understand and help educate the public about the history of this land and the role it played in our country. The Poplar Forest is an ideal place to visit for those that are fascinated by things like architecture, archaeology, and history. There are also educational programs for all ages that are offered here, such as Hands on History, which has a variety of activities for students in grades 2-12.

Thomas Jefferson undoubtedly played a major role in the foundation of the United States and uncovering the history that exists at the Poplar Forest has helped us with understanding this era in history on a deeper level as well as by sharing the truth and stories about the enslaved individuals Jefferson kept. Jefferson wanted somewhere peaceful and quiet that he could retreat to during retirement. Poplar Forest is open every day from 10 to 5 from mid-March through December and during the weekends in the winter. Both guided and self-guided tours are offered here and there is a museum gift shop that sells custom items that are aimed to help further the education about Thomas Jefferson, his plantation, and the enslaved community. The proceeds from the gift shop help finance the restoration and educational efforts of the museum.