About

Forty years ago, the octagonal villa at Poplar Forest looked quite different than it does today. Since 1989, using Jefferson’s documents and letters as his guide, Poplar Forest’s Restoration Department have worked to restore the villa to its Jefferson-era appearance. See the recently completed frieze in the parlor entablature, the restored fireplaces and the freshly repainted interior, and learn about the meticulous restoration of what Jefferson affectionately called the “Best dwelling house in the state…” on an hour-long tour guided with Austin Englund, Restoration Supervisor.

Tickets for the Architectural Restoration Behind-the-Scenes Talk and Tour are $30 in advance and $35 day-of. Admission also includes self-guided exploration of exhibits in the lower level of the house, the Wing of Offices, the ornamental grounds and the Quarter Site. Reservations are highly recommended as space is limited. Tours offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on both May 17th and May 18th.