Restoring Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest

Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson’s retreat home. In 1806, he began building it according to his own design. This was an opportunity for him to express his mature architectural vision while creating a quiet escape from the noise of Monticello. Jefferson made his last trip to Poplar Forest in 1823 when he settled his grandson Francis Eppes on the property. Ill health prevented further visits. In 1828, two years after Jefferson’s death, Eppes sold Poplar Forest to a local man, William Cobbs. In 1845, a fire led the Cobbs-Hutter family to rebuild Jefferson’s villa retreat into a practical farmhouse.

During this presentation, Austin Englund, Supervisor of Architectural Restoration, will summarize the property’s history of ownership and the changes it has undergone. We will identify the sources that informed the material selection, chronology, techniques, and proportions throughout the 40-year restoration. Additionally, this session will describe the use of traditional technology and materials for historical authenticity and discuss their role in modern preservation.

One (1) AIA HSW Credit is available.

Please note: Video will be recorded.