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January 3, 2014

Mount Vernon, Virginia

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Being a fan of American history,
especially of the American Revolution,
and especially of George Washington,
I had always longed to visit George's Virginia home, Mount Vernon.
It was a real treat to tour the estate and to hear such interesting stories about his life there!

The original one and a half story farmhouse was built in 1735 by George's father. 
Over several decades, George enlarged it to a grand 21 room mansion.



Imagine sitting out on the piazza to enjoy this view of the Potomac River!

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An enormous pecan tree beside the house!
(Plus my hubby waiting patiently while I take my pics.)

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A long distance view of the front of the mansion.

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Closer, showing one of the covered colonnades,
with a glimpse of the river behind it.

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Although I enjoyed seeing the mansion's beautiful interior,
I was disappointed that photography wasn't permitted.

Here's one of the outbuildings - the kitchen house.
The marble cutting board and the mortar & pestle are originals.

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The stone masonry walls of Mount Vernon are actually wood.
A faux treatment called "rustication" was used.
Pine boards are bevelled and painted, and then sand is thrown on the wet paint.
Pretty nifty for that time period, wasn't it?

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George Washington was buried in the original family vault,
just a short walk from the main house.

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In his will, Washington gave instructions to have a new vault built.
George's and Martha's remains, plus those of other family members,
were moved to the new tomb.

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We had the fortunate timing to be present to watch a wreath-laying ceremony.

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"...it is my will and desire that 
all the slaves which I hold in my own right 
shall receive their freedom."
-The Last Will and Testament of George Washington, 1799

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Adjacent to the family tomb is a memorial
to the slaves at Mount Vernon.

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Plan a trip of your own to

1 comment:

  1. I've been there several times and am looking forward to another visit. A definite bucket list item! Great pictures, shame they don't allow inside pics.

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