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Mount Vernon was passed on to George Washington from his older half-brother, and at one time included 8,000 acres. George Washington built five complete farms and a fishery on the property; each farm had its own buildings, livestock, foremen, and workers. Approximately 150 slaves operated the five farms, and an additional 90 took care of the main house, referred to as the Mansion. The 14 rooms in the mansion that are open for viewing have been restored to their original colors, and contain a number of the original furnishings. You can see the large dining room, where Washington was officially notified that he had been elected the first President of the United States, and see the bed in which he died on December 14, 1799.
Interesting Facts:
- During the Civil War, Mount Vernon was considered neutral ground by both sides.
- In honor, whenever Navy ships sail past Mount Vernon along the Potomac River, flags are lowered to half-mast, and the crew stands to attention.
- Not only is there a family grave site at Mount Vernon where George and his wife Martha are buried, but right next door is a slave burial ground, where 50-100 of Washington’s slaves are laid to rest.
Links:
Mount Vernon
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Timeline
| 1674 |
1754 |
1759 |
1789-1797 |
| John Washington, George’s great-grandfather,is granted the Mount Vernon homesite. |
George Washington leases Mount Vernon from his elder half-brother’s widow. |
George Washington, his wife, and her two children move into Mount Vernon. |
Washington serves as President of the United States. |
| 1799 |
1858 |
| George Washington dies at Mount Vernon at the age of 67, and is buried in the family tomb on the grounds. |
Mount Vernon Ladies' Association purchases the property from the Washington family. |
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