Thomas Jefferson owned property in Bedford County called Poplar Forest beginning in 1773. When the British invaded Virginia, they set out to capture Jefferson who was Governor at the time. Jefferson moved the government from Richmond to Charlottesville in 1781, but was in imminent danger of capture. A local man, Jack Jouett overheard British officers discussing their plan at a local tavern and set off in the night to warn Jefferson at Monticello. Upon hearing the British were well on their way to Monticello, he and his family escaped to Poplar Forest in Bedford, staying on the grounds for two months.
Curiosities: Jefferson’s Travel through the GermaniesThomas 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 parti... Read More
Conversations with Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin FranklinThe annual Conversations with Mr. Jefferson program returns to his retreat home in 2026! Join us as three of the most influential men in Colonial A... Read More
Jefferson & Adams: A Stage PlayJoin us as we welcome Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Abigail Adams in a presentation of "Jefferson & Adams" a stage play written by Howard Ginsburg... Read More