Step back in time to Jefferson’s travels through the Germanies. Led by Poplar Forest’s long term and recently retired Director of Architectural Restoration, Travis McDonald, we’ll follow Jefferson’s two-week 1788 solo journey through the Rhine Valley and explore Jefferson’s observations on architecture, agriculture, art and government.

Jefferson and history enthusiasts are sure to enjoy this exploratory time which includes travel notes from Poplar Forest’s 2025 International trip, Thomas Jefferson’s Spring Tour of Germany, to some of the most monumental post-war restoration projects in Europe.

About the Series: Thomas Jefferson was a man of many varied interests. Join us at Jefferson’s “best dwelling house in the state” as we delve into topics he found particularly fascinating from travel to culinary, leadership to religion. Each talk in the series includes a wine and cheese reception following the presentation.

Tickets are $25/each or $100 for all five Curiosities Series talks

Other 2026 Jefferson’s Curiosities Series Events:

• What Made Jefferson a Great Leader? (Dr. John Ragosta): March 26, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• Jefferson and Trist’s Wild Mississippi Scheme (Karen Chase): May 7, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• Jefferson’s Curiosities: Hearth Cooking (Rachel Deddens): June 11, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• Jefferson & Religion (Nathan Taylor): September 24, 2026 6:30 p.m.

*Please note, there are no refunds for event tickets for any reason. Event Tickets DO NOT include admission to the property during daytime hours. To tour the house and grounds between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., you must purchase a regular tour ticket here.