In this session, join Rachel Deddens, author of Cooking at the Hearth, as she discusses Eliza Smith’s historic 1753 cookbook, as well as “Bill of Fare” which highlights Thomas Jefferson’s love of peas, ham, French cuisine and more. Learn about the three-burner stove constructed at Poplar Forest’s wing of offices and the traditional methods once used for cooking there.

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:

• Jefferson’s Travels through the Germanies (Travis McDonald): February 19, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• What Made Jefferson a Great Leader?: March 26, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• Jefferson and Trist’s Wild Mississippi Scheme (Karen Chase): May 7, 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.