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Thomas Jefferson's hideaway retreat open for tours

Looking for things to do around Independence Day? Head to Lynchburg, Virginia to pay a visit to the retreat of one of our greatest Presidents.

Monticello

Featured on the U.S. nickel and the $2 dollar bill, Monticello is of Palladian architecture, and was designed by Jefferson.
Just 70 miles from Monticello is his hideaway plantation retreat at Poplar Forest, which dates back to 1809. Designed by Thomas Jefferson, the house was built as he left office and was the first octagonal house in America (Longwood in Natchez is the most famous and largest octagonal house, but was never completed due to the Civil War). Recently restored and now open, the property also includes an old smokehouse, kitchen, and cold storage. Admission is charged. Hours are 10 am - 4 pm (closed on Tuesday). Visit the Poplar Forest website for more info.

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As our nation's third President, Thomas Jefferson was also the primary writer of the Declaration of Independence and a strong believer in self reliance and individual rights. What a fitting way to pay tribute to the man who helped make America the great nation it has become (and can be again).

In light of the present financial "crisis", it's interesting to read what Thomas Jefferson said in 1802:

'I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around the banks will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered'.

A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.

- Thomas Jefferson