Thomas Jefferson and Eliza Trist—friends in Philadelphia—spoke of exploring the Mississippi River territories two decades before Lewis and Clark's expedition. Keeping a detailed journal (that still exists) of her 1783-1785 journey, his close friend Eliza Trist agreed to document her travels west. She ventured from the East Coast to Pittsburgh, and navigated down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers deep into Spanish-owned Louisiana territory. This presentation explores the Jefferson-Trist partnership behind this early western exploration, the extensive details of her pioneering journey, her descendants'; ties to Jefferson, and her life-long contributions to the development of early America—culminating in her death and burial at Monticello.

About the Series: Thomas Jefferson was a man of many varied interests.  Join us at the house he deemed “the best dwelling house in the state” as we delve into topics he found particularly fascinating: from travel to culinary, leadership to religion. Each talk in the series includes a wine and cheese reception following the presentation. All event attendees will receive a 10% discount in the Museum Shop before or after the event. Tickets are $25/each per talk.

Other 2026 Jefferson's Curiosities Series Events:

• Jefferson and Leadership: March 26, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• Cooking: June 11, 2026 6:30 p.m.
• Jefferson & Religion: September 24, 2026 6:30 p.m.

*Please note, there are no refunds for event tickets for any reason. Event Tickets DO NOT include admission to the property during daytime hours. To tour the house and grounds between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., you must purchase a regular tour ticket here.

*All attendees must bring their ID with them if they are planning on drinking the provided wine