Forest, VA: Forty years ago the rescue and restoration of Thomas Jefferson’s private retreat was little more than the shared dream of the farseeing individuals who founded the Corporation for Jefferson’s Poplar Forest. One of only two homes Jefferson designed for his personal use, the villa at Poplar Forest became his private sanctuary after he retired from the presidency and public service. By December 1983 when the Corporation for Jefferson’s Poplar Forest was formed, the Palladian-inspired villa had been altered by successive owners and was almost lost to development. Since then, the meticulous architectural restoration of the villa, led by Travis McDonald, has set new precedents in historic preservation. Over 34 years, his team of master craftsmen have recreated Jefferson’s design using the same tools, the same materials and in the same order of construction as originally specified; offering the rare opportunity for visitors to view a historic restoration in progress. The ornamental landscape, which played an integral role in Jefferson’s Palladian-inspired plan, has also been replanted according to his design. Today, for the first time in 200 years, the north face of Poplar Forest looks as it did during the president’s time.

On Friday, April 28, Thomas Jefferson, as portrayed by veteran actor Bill Barker (appearing compliments of Monticello) will welcome guests to the historic property for a day of special activities marking the 40th anniversary of the formation of The Corporation for Jefferson’s Poplar Forest and the completion of the restoration of the octagonal villa after 34 years. The festivities continue at 6:00 p.m. that evening at the 40th Anniversary Gala, with cocktails, dinner, dancing and more in a tent on the south lawn.