Yesterday we went to visit
Mount Vernon Estate, the home of George and Martha Washington. The estate is located only 16 miles from Washington D.C.
Touring the main house, you learn of the lives of George and Martha Washington while seeing most rooms in the house, including the bedchamber where Washington died. The remainder of the property has several other spots of note including practical buildings of the plantation, and an impressive view of The Potomac River.
Our day was cool but sunny so we enjoyed the hot apple cider and hotcakes served for breakfast {only this weekend}.
If anything, the tour of Mount Vernon is awe-inspiring just to be where this great man once lived.
Today the Mansion has been restored to its appearance in 1799, the last year of Washington's life. The house and estate is set in 40 acres. It's really worth visiting - it's not only interesting, it's also very beautiful. The home’s high-columned piazza is considered the standout feature of the mansion. It extends the entire length of the house.
The estate has been preserved by the nation’s first womens patriotic organization founded by Miss Pamela Cunningham of South Carolina in 1858 and called the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association.
Mount Vernon is still a working farm, so you will see farm animals and people working in the fields.
the Eastern facade, facing the Potomac
the washing room
spinning wheel in the slave quarters
The cupola, another notable feature of the mansion, was added in 1778.
Washington added his “dove of peace” weathervane in 1787.
Spinning should go forward with all possible dispatch, as we shall have nothing else to depend upon if these disputes {with England} continue…”
-George Washington, letter to his manager Lund Washington, August 20, 1775
spinning room {one of my favorite rooms}
The Blacksmith Shop, located along Mount Vernon’s North Lane, was essential to the operation of the plantation and an important part of George Washington’s business on the plantation and off.
