2009.09.29
Thomas Jefferson retirement party at Poplar Forest
Only a historical figure as towering as Thomas Jefferson would inspire a 200th anniversary party celebrating the date of his retirement. It does, however, seem like a sensible event for the folks at Poplar Forest, Jefferson's retreat in Bedford County. At Saturday's event, they'll have some help from the Richmond Symphony Orchestra and a visit from the retiree himself, or at least someone portraying him. Here's the full text of the press release.
October 3 Events Spotlight 200 Years at Poplar Forest
Forest, VA - Make sure that you attend the event of the century: celebrate the 200th anniversary of Thomas Jefferson’s retirement! Toast Jefferson’s lifetime of public service and enjoy an afternoon concert by the Richmond Symphony Orchestra on Saturday, October 3rd.
2009 marks the 200th anniversary of Jefferson’s retirement from public service and public life. In November 1809, he stayed for the first time in the architecturally stunning house emerging on his Bedford plantation.
A catered reception will begin at 3 pm, followed by the concert on the lawn at 4 pm.
In addition to the symphony performance, Thomas Jefferson, portrayed by Bill Barker of Colonial Williamsburg, will visit with guests. Mr. Barker has portrayed Jefferson for more than 20 years, appearing in such diverse locations as The White House and the Palace of Versailles.
Tickets are $50.00 in advance or $60.00 at the door. Purchase tickets online at www.poplarforest.org or call the Poplar Forest Museum Shop at (434) 534-8120.
This performance of the Richmond Symphony is partially supported by the Virginia Commission for the Arts. The event is also sponsored by Virginia Living, Progress Printing, the News & Advance, Areva, Ferguson Enterprises, The Summit Assisted Living, and Westminster Canterbury. More information at www.poplarforest.org/event/richmond-symphony.
Also on October 3: Archaeology Open House
On Saturday October 3rd, visitors can also glimpse exciting new archaeological finds at Poplar Forest. Every October, Virginia celebrates Virginia archaeology with events at libraries, museums, historical societies, clubs, and on active archaeological sites.
During Archaeology Open House, Poplar Forest staff archaeologists will share their latest discoveries at the current excavation site. Visitors will also receive a behind-the-scenes guided tour of the archaeology lab, where archaeologists clean, catalogue and study artifacts. The lab is normally closed to the public.
Archaeology Open House is free and open to the public. Tours will begin at 11:15 a.m., 12:15, 1:15 and 2:15 p.m.
Circling the Globe
Visitors on October 3 can also hear the Lynchburg Amateur Radio Club transmit from Poplar Forest in the Hands-on-History Pavilion.
Please call the Museum Shop at (434) 453-8120 for more information about any of these programs.
About Poplar Forest
Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson's secluded plantation and retreat home. Poplar Forest is a National Historic Landmark that recently was added to the U.S. nomination list to become a World Heritage Site. Exhibiting award-winning restoration and archaeology, Poplar Forest offers tours, special events and school outreach programs. Open April through November, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, except Tuesday and Thanksgiving Day (closed). For more information about Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest and the 200th Anniversary, call (434) 525-1806 or visit www.poplarforest.org.
