Tourism on my Rest Day

April 18, 2007

After the big hike I took a rest day and went to visit Thomas Jefferson's country retreat, Poplar Forest. It had a big fire in 1845 after which it was heavily remodeled (in Greek Revival style) so the restoration has been a major undertaking. The interior is in progress, so the tour shows lots of the exposed construction - lots of fun. Like Monticello, there are huge tulip poplar trees each with its own lightning rod.

It has been a somber experience being here so close to Blacksburg during the events surrounding the killings. People are wearing their VT hats, car and mailbox banners, sweatshirts, etc. to show their feelings and support.