George Washington's Mount Vernon

Welcome back! In the first post, I highlighted Shiloh Battlefield, today I am writing about another favorite place to visit.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

In 2015, I was blessed with the opportunity to join a select group of teachers from around the country for the Mount Vernon Teacher Institute. This visit allowed me to study Washington’s life, leadership, and legacy. It was a changing experience that I continue to share with my students.

George Washington was a general, our first president, but always a Virginian farmer who loved Mount Vernon. His leadership, willingness to release power, and ability to rally troops are a few of the reasons why he is one of my favorite founders.

One of my favorite quotes from George Washington comes from a letter to Alexander Hamilton in 1788, "Still I hope I shall always possess firmness and virtue enough to maintain (what I consider the most enviable of all titles) the character of an honest man."

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​Mount Vernon dates back to 1735, when the core original structure was built. The structure was expanded over the years during Washington’s life to what we know today with 21 rooms and 11,028 square feet. While at Mount Vernon, three areas stood out and I fully recommend you to see them on your visit. 

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​First, the Mansion. This is the key focal point of Mount Vernon. On your tour make sure to check out the key to the Bastille. The view from the piazza seeing the Potomac River is worth the trip! You are seeing the view George and Martha Washington saw. ​If you can’t visit in person, take the virtual tour online. 

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​Second, make sure you visit the final resting place of George and Martha Washington. While here, you are standing where many have stood to pay respects.
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You can find out more about the tombs online here. 

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​Last but not least, the slave cemetery and memorial is a remarkable area to visit. In 2014, Mount Vernon begin studying the cemetery. At the end of 2015, 46 burial plots have been mapped out. You can learn more about slavery at Mount Vernon online. I truly commend Mount Vernon for their work to remember the enslaved population at Mount Vernon. ​


It was a remarkable honor to visit Mount Vernon and I look forward to returning. In future posts, I hope to share more about my trip. However, you can learn more about the history by going online.  


​A special thank you to the Mount Vernon Education Team for a lifetime of memories and knowledge. 

Until next time,
Jason

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