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Architectural Restoration Guided Talk & Tour, May 15 -

On May 15, 2010 the public is invited to a behind-the-scenes, guided look at the ongoing restoration of Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home. Due to demand in years past, Poplar Forest will present two tours on May 15th, at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Space is limited. Please call (434) 534-8110 for reservations. 

Poplar Forest was an important part of Jefferson’s life. It was his most personal architectural creation and landscape, a place where he came to find rest and leisure, rekindle his creativity, and to enjoy private family time.

Director of Architectural Restoration, Travis McDonald will lead visitors on a guided tour of Jefferson's retreat home. Following the tour, he will present a slide talk that will examine the philosophies, nuances and integrity of museum house restoration. Questions posed include: "Is the research, documentation and physical restoration of Poplar Forest different from other similar projects? What role does physical restoration play when interpreting past events at historical sites?"

“Beginning in 2010, visitors will have the opportunity to watch interior restoration continue at Poplar Forest as craftsmen begin to install the trim and entablature in each room,” said Travis McDonald. “During the restoration tours, I hope to give you a sneak a peek into Jefferson’s architectural genius so that you may marvel as I do at the scope of his imagination at Poplar Forest.”

Travis McDonald was appointed to lead the architectural restoration of Poplar Forest when the nonprofit corporation began restoration in 1989. He has led a team of Architectural Advisory Panel, restoration architect, restoration craftsmen, and specialized consultants. He earned his master’s degree in architectural history at the University of Virginia and his B.A. at the University of Texas.

“Old is the New Green!” – National Preservation Month
May is National Historic Preservation Month, sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and as part of the national celebration, Poplar Forest will use this opportunity to join with other sites to educate the public about the importance of historic preservation and restoration. More information about Preservation Month is available at http://www.preservationnation.org/take-action/preservation-month/. 

May 8-16 is also National Tourism Week, an important time to visit and enjoy a local tourist attraction. Tourism is one of Virginia's most powerful industries, generating $17.7 billion in visitor spending, supporting 208,000 jobs and providing $1.2 billion in state and local taxes to Virginia's communities.

Details
The Restoration Open House is Saturday, May 15th with special guided tours at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Advance tickets are not required but reservations are highly recommended. The talk and tour is included with regular house admission, which also includes a separate tour of the house either before or after the restoration tour, and use of the GPS-handheld devices to explore the landscape.

About Poplar Forest
Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson's secluded plantation and retreat home, now a National Historic Landmark. Undergoing award-winning restoration and archaeology, Poplar Forest offers educational outreach programs, tours and special events. Poplar Forest is open Wednesday through Monday, April through November; except Thanksgiving Day, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Admission for house tours is $10, adults; $9, seniors; $9 active military; $5, youth, ages12-18; $2, youth 6-11; free, children under the age of 6. Call (434) 525-1806 or visit www.poplarforest.org for additional information.

NOTE:  Images of the restoration process are available and interviews may be arranged in advance. Please contact Anna Bentson at (434) 534-8116 or anna@poplarforest.org for additional information.

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Poplar Forest is open to the public seven days a week, March 15 through December 15 (closed Thanksgiving Day). Group tours are available year-round by appointment.