Independence Day Celebration
July 4, 2011
What better place to celebrate America’s birthday than at the personal getaway of the author of the Declaration of Independence! The grounds will come alive with the music, fun, and crafts of Jefferson’s time from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. At 1:30 a fife and drummer will herald Poplar Forest’s signature event— a reading of the Declaration of Independence from Mr. Jefferson’s porch. And there will be picnic food available for an old-fashioned Fourth of July picnic on the grounds.
· Costumed, living-history interpreters will demonstrate silver-smithing, hearth-cooking, pottery-making, flax-breaking and how to spin and weave with flax strands—and there will be a Jefferson-era “physick-dentist”
· Otto, the Sword-swallower will provide a thrilling show of comedy and courage
· A hilarious 19th century Italian street performer will perform balancing acts, slack-rope walking, and juggling
· Levram the Great, a colonial conjurer, will delight his audience with a magic show
· Children can step back in time and try their hands at stick horse races, rolling hoops, ball in cup, bowling, pony-rides, interactive story-telling
· The Virginia Academy of historic dance will demonstrate dance from Virginia’s early cultural heritage
· Hear traditional music of Jefferson’s time
· There will be period entertainment for all ages— including bell playing, a marionette puppet show, a story-telling curio show, and hobby horses.
· The fife and drummer will recruit young enthusiasts for the militia and teach them standard military drills
Everyone can participate in a Native American game and also try their hand at writing with a quill pen
New Admission Price
In 2011 admission at the gate for adults will be $5.00. All children under 16 will be admitted for free.
House Tours (available for an additional fee):
$9.00 Adult/Senior
$2.00 Youth 6-18
Free 5 & Under
Please call (434) 534-8120 for additional information.
The event is generously sponsored by:
