Forest, VA - Poplar Forest will host husband and wife writing/photography team, Pat and Chuck Blackley, on Saturday, April 18, 2009 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Museum Shop. The Blackleys will be signing copies of their new book, Virginia's Historic Homes and Gardens.

Virginia's Historic Homes and Gardens provides a photographic look at the legendary gardens and houses of the Old Dominion. From historic dwellings in the tidewater region to plantations in the Blue Ridge foothills, Virginia is home to an abundance of residences and landscapes that reflect the evolving architecture and changing lifestyles of a growing nation. Including such national landmarks as Mount Vernon and Monticello, authors Pat and Chuck Blackley introduce the people and families "presidents and pioneers, nobility and entrepreneurs" that helped to build Virginia's rich architectural legacy. Color photographs bring to life the homes' exteriors and interiors as well as a look at their gardens as they appear today. Historical details on expansions, updates, and restoration projects undertaken over the years, along with useful information on each site's location, make it a great guide for anyone interested in the architecture, gardens and history of Virginia.

Pat and Chuck Blackley, a full-time photographic and writing team, whose home base is in Staunton, Virginia, have done extensive and diverse photographic coverage of Virginia. Their previous works include Our Virginia, Backroads from the Beltway, Shenandoah Valley Impressions, Blue Ridge Parkway Impressions, and Outer Banks Impressions.

About Poplar Forest:
Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson's secluded plantation and retreat home, now a National Historic Landmark. Undergoing award-winning restoration and archaeology, Poplar Forest offers tours and special events. Poplar Forest is open April through November, Wednesday through Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Call (434) 525-1806 or visit www.poplarforest.org for additional information.