170: Poplar Grove’s Past and Promise

In this episode of True Tales From Old Houses, Stacy and Daniel answer a listener's question about what to do with an unused chimney. Should it stay or should it go? They weigh the pros and cons, sharing stories from their own restoration projects, and consider how to balance architectural integrity with practical updates, especially when a chimney no longer serves its original purpose.

Later, Stacy and Daniel chat with Olivia Wood, the eleventh-generation steward of Poplar Grove, a historic family home with deep roots. Olivia shares how she's embracing the responsibility of preservation while also making the space her own. From uncovering centuries-old documents, including ones related to the site's history with slavery, to navigating family dynamics and building a design team, Olivia's story is one of patience, creativity, and respect for the past. She also opens up about her growing confidence during the whole house renovation and her dream of turning Poplar Grove into a resource for historical education.

This episode is a reminder that old houses hold stories, decisions, and opportunities to shape the future by honoring the past.

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Mentioned in this Episode

• Enter to win a signed copy of The Case for Historic Windows by Scott Sidler and Stacy Grinsfelder. (The giveaway ends 6/6/25.)
• Follow the Poplar Grove Project on Instagram.
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