FOUNDATIONS HELP MAKE HISTORY HAPPEN
Poplar Forest Newsletter, Fall 2005

Several foundations across Virginia and North Carolina have stepped forward to help make it possible to share Mr. Jefferson’s retreat with future generations. 

A $25,000 grant from the Dominion Foundation was received to support developing educational opportunities. Bryant Brooks, Senior Manager of State and Local Affairs for Virginia and North Carolina commented, “Dominion feels that this organization is truly a historical treasure in the Commonwealth of Virginia. We believe it is of fundamental importance for young people to build a foundation on their past, so they may forge a brighter future.” The grant will enable planning for a new day camp for children based on Jefferson’s interest in the sciences, targeted for 2006. 

Support to help achieve 2005 restoration goals was announced by two Virginia foundations. The Beazley Foundation committed $25,000 toward the goal of continuing archaeological investigation of the Jefferson-era site in the archaeologically-rich area southeast of the octagonal house. “We are very grateful to the Beazley Foundation for their help in investigating the evidence of early 19th century outbuildings we have begun to uncover,” said Barbara Heath, director of archaeology and landscapes. 

In addition, the Roy Charles Charitable Trust provided $25,000 to help achieve the next steps in reconstructing Jefferson’s east wing. Travis McDonald, director of architectural restoration said, "We are at an exciting point in constructing the wing’s roof -- the Trust’s gift enables us to start putting the wooden shingles on the hidden part of Jefferson’s ingenious roof design.”

Further support came from the Camp Foundation and the Robert Haywood Morrison Foundation for restoration work in 2005, and the Virginia Foundation for the Humanities for communicating archaeological findings about African American history at Poplar Forest through updated signage and print materials. 

“These gifts join with vitally important annual gifts from Poplar Forest’s supporters to make history happen at Poplar Forest every day,” said Judith Schulz, Chairman of the Board. “Annual contributions translate into daily tours, children’s programs in the Hands-on-History Center, field schools in archaeology and architectural restoration, continued excavation of Jefferson’s plantation landscape, and restoration of the house and wing of offices.” 

“A special challenge grant makes year-end gifts even more important in 2005,” said Schulz. “Your year-end gifts for education, restoration, and archaeology can help us match the conditional $700,000 from the Commonwealth to help secure the preservation of Jefferson’s Lower Field.”