For Immediate Release

July 31, 2007
Digital images available                                                                                                                              

Media Contact:

Melissa Wood (703) 799-5203

mwood@mountvernon.org

MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens joins Black Women United for Action in commemorating the slaves who lived at Mount Vernon with a wreathlaying ceremony and musical presentation, Saturday, September 22 at 11 a.m. The annual event features dramatic readings and uplifting music to reflect, remember and recognize the slaves for their sacrifices, accomplishments and contributions given in the early formation of this nation.

Throughout Washington’s life, slaves lived and worked at Mount Vernon. When he was 11, Washington inherited 10 slaves and the population steadily grew. During the Revolutionary War, Washington vowed never to buy or sell another slave. In 1799 when Washington passed away, his will stated that all slaves under his ownership were to be freed. Of the 123 slaves that were freed after his death, a number of them were provided for while staying on the plantation.

Representatives from both Black Women United for Action and Historic Mount Vernon are available for interviews prior to or at the event. 

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Events, programs, and activities are subject to change.

Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); www.mountvernon.org

Since 1860, over 80 million visitors have made George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens the most popular historic home in America.  Through thought-provoking tours, entertaining events, and stimulating educational programs on the Estate and in classrooms across the nation, Mount Vernon strives to preserve George Washington’s place in history as “First in War, First in Peace, and First in the Hearts of His Countrymen.”  Mount Vernon is owned and operated by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, America’s oldest national preservation organization, founded in 1853.  A picturesque drive to the southern end of the scenic George Washington Memorial Parkway, Mount Vernon is located just 16 miles from the nation’s capital. 

Hours of operation: April-August, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; March, September, October, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; November – February, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Regular admission rates: adults, $13.00; senior citizens, $12.00; children age 6-11, when accompanied by an adult, $6.00; and children under age 5, FREE.  Admission fees, restaurant and retail proceeds, along with private donations, support the operation and restoration of Mount Vernon.