Blogs

The New Room Renewed

Throughout 2013, visitors can watch as experts undertake Mount Vernon’s most comprehensive preservation project to date: the cleaning and restoration of Washington's New Room, also known as the Large Dining Room. As the first room that today’s visitors see when they enter the Mansion, the New Room makes a bold impression with its vibrant green color and elegant furnishings.  Despite its significance, the room hasn’t undergone a major renovation in more than 30 years.  With this restoration, Mount Vernon staff and visiting experts will clean and restore all the architectural elements as well as reassess the objects that have traditionally furnished the room. Follow along on the blog as work continues on this important project!

National Library Video Blog

As the Fred W. Smith Library for the Study of George Washington is constructed, join us as we document the major milestones and fascinating work that has gone into its creation. Take a look behind the scenes at the historical documents and manuscripts that will be housed here as well as the library's many modern amenities. Updates will be posted as we progress toward the library's summer 2013 opening.

George Washington Wired

We all know George Washington as the first President of the United States and Continental Army soldier, but did you also know he was an innovative business man and avid farmer. Find out more about the man who earned the title of “Father of His Country” and a hallowed place in America’s national psyche. This blog is updated regularly with stories ranging in topic from livestock at the estate to archeology object highlights to "this day in history" events.

Mount Vernon's Mystery Midden

The Mount Vernon Archaeology Department conducted an intensive excavation to explore an artifact-rich area known as the South Groven Midden. Over 75,000 items were unearthed,including ceramics, glass, toys, tobacco pipes, wig curlers, scissors, oyster shells, animal bones, and crab claws, discarded between 1735 and 1765. These artifacts provide valuable information about George Washington and his family and friends during these years and support the historical documents that detail how the South Grove was transformed from an area where trash was deposited into a pleasure grove during Washington’s life.