When you live in Virginia, you don’t just read about history: you can experience it by visiting the countless landmarks. Poplar Forest is one such landmark. Thomas Jefferson designed this gorgeous plantation and used it as his personal retreat. The plantation house has undergone a historical restoration on the inside and outside, ensuring it looks exactly as it did when Jefferson lived here.
Tickets are $16 for adults, $8 for kids ages 12–18, and $4 for those 6–11. That’s a small price to pay for the interesting history you will learn.
Speaking of the history you’ll learn, check out some information about this historic site.
A Look Back at Poplar Forest
Thomas Jefferson started working on Poplar Forest way back in 1806. When finished, this house became possibly the best example of Neoclassical architecture in the country. The impractical floor plan and interesting design make this an architectural masterpiece.
It held a special place in his heart, and he visited it as often as possible, many times making it four times a year and staying as long as a month at a time. This house gave him the chance to get away from the pressures he experienced in his public life; he could separate himself from politics and the demands of his life whenever he escaped here.
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Jefferson’s Escape
This plantation was not an escape for everyone, though. Jefferson added a service wing to the home in 1814, and this is where the slaves stayed. More than 90 slaves worked at the plantation, doing everything from field work to blacksmithing. They also provided the service in the house.
While Jefferson escaped to this plantation to get away from the stresses of his life, he still kept a schedule while there. He woke up in the mornings to do some reading, writing, or riding, and he enjoyed strolling through the gardens in the evenings with his family. He was especially happy when his grandchildren were there. He always enjoyed spending time with them.
You’ll get a heavy dose of history when you visit Poplar Forest. Once you’re done, you’ll be ready to get back to modern life, and Berglund Automotive in Roanoke, Virginia, can help. Stop by, pick up a modern set of wheels, and go wherever the day takes you.
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