After years of planning and anticipation, the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding is here!

The Declaration of Independence’s principal author, Thomas Jefferson, is central to our national commemoration of the writing, signing and issuance of the Declaration on July 4, 1776, and 250 years of freedom. At his newly restored private villa retreat, Poplar Forest, we invite Americans to experience Jefferson’s world firsthand, reflect on his tremendous legacy and re-engage with our nation’s founding ideals. These opportunities help deepen our connection to the past and strengthen engagement with our nation’s democracy. As a private nonprofit, our continued ability to share this National Historic Landmark with the public, while offering special programs and events throughout the year, depends on the generous support from individuals, corporations and foundations who have funded our progress over the past 43 years.

Thanks to your support of our 2026 Annual Fund so far this year, we have raised $250,000 to advance our mission to preserve, inspire and tell the emerging story of Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, ensuring our future as a vital learning resource for generations to come.

As a special challenge to commemorate this historic year, we are seeking your help to match the $250,000 raised so far in 2026, and raise an additional $250,000 by September 30, 2026. All gifts will support the Poplar Forest Annual Fund and are vital to the ongoing preservation and maintenance of Jefferson’s personal retreat and the continued exploration of the historic grounds.

Please consider making a special anniversary gift today to help us bridge the distance to $250,000 and protect this irreplaceable piece of American history and National Historic Landmark. All gifts of $40 or more receive the benefits of a Poplar Forest membership, including discounted admission to Poplar Forest events, a subscription to the Poplar Forest biannual newsletter and monthly e-newsletter, and much more.

If you have any questions regarding your tax-deductible gift, please contact the Development Office at 434.534.8116 or development@poplarforest.org

To make your gift to the Poplar Forest Annual Fund online now, please click on our secure online payment button below.

Mailing Address: The Corporation for Jefferson’s Poplar Forest, Post Office Box 419, Forest, Virginia 24551.