Sherwood Forest Plantation Foundation — Attraction in Virginia

I took the house tour back in November and it was wonderful. They’re selective of who they let go through the house but I’m a history buff and have an interest in John Tyler’s presidency and it’s fascinating how he has a living grandson. I saw the segment on CBS Sunday Morning about him and the house and seeing the ballroom that was built for the Virginia Reel was what really made what to tour the house. My guide Tim was very very knowledgeable and is a close friend of Mr.. Tyler. I’ve been to many presidents houses but this is one where Tim, me and the other man on our tour spent an hour on the porch talking history before going through the house and closing with getting to see the ballroom. If you’re a history buff or major, this is one of the best tours in Virginia but call over a month in advance and let them know why you’re interested in seeing the house and you’ll be accommodated. The only thing that would have been better was meeting the...

Wow! A hidden gem in the long list of Presidential homes that Virginia has to offer. It is WELL WORTH scheduling a guided tour of the home. It's not just a tour, it's fascinating stories about our 10th President, his family, and his home. Tim (who was our tour guide) is a gifted storyteller in addition to being a wealth of historical information. If you love old homes and history in general, you will love this tour. And, if you love history about our US Presidents and politics specifically like I do, this is an absolute MUST. Thank you to the Tyler family for continuing to make this home available to the public!! Also, note that the home of Harrison, who Tyler served under as VP, is just down the road (Berkley Plantation) and I recommend as a second stop after...

Tim did an amazing job as docent; he had wonderful stories to tell about President Tyler, and he shows you the beautiful antiques in the house, and recommends a book to read about Julia Gardiner Tyler, and he tell you about the offspring (a grandson founded ChemTree is Ashland, VA and made his employees who had been with him longer than a decade into millionaires). Plus I had a chance to talk with Tim a little after the tour - he has his own fascinating story (he and his family lived in Iran for four years during the fall of the Shah and the Revolution aftermath). Totally recommend the tour, and as more are scheduled in late spring, it may be worthwhile to ask when Tim is scheduled...