Roots and Reconnection: Celebrating our Story

Join Poplar Forest’s African American Advisory Group, interpretation and archaeology staff, and the Board of Directors to celebrate, recognize and remember the men, women and children of the enslaved community at Poplar Forest. The free, family-oriented event features musical performances, historic interpreters, and more on the grounds of Poplar Forest. Enjoy a catered lunch by Bistro Brothers BBQ for $5 per person.

Schedule of Events (*schedule subject to change)

10:00 a.m. Property Opens

10:30 a.m. Welcome and performance by Kuumba Dance Ensemble

11:00 a.m. Quarter Site living history demonstrations by Dylan Pritchett and Robert Watson

11:30 a.m. Concurrent Sessions:

• Restoration Supervisor Austin Englund gives a talk and tour about enslaved master craftsman John Hemmings and his contributions to the building of Poplar Forest
• Director of Archaeology and Landscapes, Dr. Eric Proebsting gives a presentation about the ongoing archaeology surrounding the 1857 Slave Dwelling

12:00 p.m.- Kuumba drumming and dance demonstrations

12:15 p.m.- Lunch provided by Bistro Bros BBQ (a $5 reservation is required) and Live music by Lew Taylor

1:00 p.m. Concurrent Sessions:

• Restoration Supervisor Austin Englund gives a talk and tour about enslaved master craftsman John Hemmings and his contributions to the building of Poplar Forest
• Director of Archaeology and Landscapes, Dr. Eric Proebsting gives a presentation about the ongoing archaeology surrounding the 1857 Slave Dwelling

2:00 p.m. – Interpreting Histories, Honoring Lives: A Dialogue with Poplar Forest’s African American Advisory Group

• Join us for a panel discussion featuring African American Advisory Group members as they share insights from their work at Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. Their role has been instrumental in interpreting and representing enslaved histories and actively engaging with diverse communities and descendants of the enslaved at Poplar Forest. “Roots and Reconnection” symbolizes a journey of rediscovering histories, mending narratives, and forging bonds while committing to historical accuracy and honoring the humanity and lives of the enslaved. Engage with our panelists as they discuss their work’s significance, challenges, and rewards.

Ongoing Activities throughout the Day

• Public Archaeology Day- learn about the current archaeology work on site and join in the process of discovery by trying your hand at archeology
• Living History Presentations at the Quarter Site including African American Folk Tales and Basket Weaving
• Woodworking demonstrations with Austin Englund, Restoration Supervisor
• House Tours available at 10:30, 12:00, 1:00 and 2:30
• House open for self-guided tours

Lunch Menu

Pulled Pork BBQ and buns

Cole Slaw

Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Beans

REGISTRATION

If you are planning to attend this free event, please use the form below to register.

If you would like to purchase lunch tickets for $5 a person, please purchase here.