Thomas Jefferson has long been seen as one of America’s most important Founders, the very author of American independence, and one of our nation’s great leaders. After he served eight years as president, avowed Jeffersonians held the presidency for 24 of the next 28 years. Cities, counties, schools, universities, have all been named “Jefferson” to honor his contributions and as evidence of his success as a leader.

In recent years, however, his legacy has been seriously questioned in large part because he participated in the foul institution of American slavery, owning over 600 people during his lifetime, including several of his own children. Those concerns need to be taken seriously. We might well ask: What does a wealthy, white, slave-owning aristocrat have to teach us about leadership? And why is Jefferson still seen to be a great American leader?

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.

Other 2026 Jefferson’s Curiosities Series Events:

• Jefferson’s Travels through the Germanies (Travis McDonald): February 19, 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 5 p.m., you must purchase a regular tour ticket here.