For Immediate Release
June 18, 2008
Media Contact:
Melissa Wood (703) 799-5203
mwood@mountvernon.org
MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Historic Mount Vernon, the home of our first commander-in-chief who led American troops to victory in the country’s fight for independence, will celebrate George Washington’s contribution to America’s freedom on July 4th with its annual event An American Celebration. The day will feature military reenactments, a musical performance by the National Concert Band of America, a special wreathlaying ceremony, free birthday cake for all (while supplies last), and a visit from the “first” first couple, “General and Mrs. Washington.” Independence Day weekend is the last opportunity to see a full-sized replica of the original Liberty Bell on display and rung every hour at Mount Vernon! All events are included in regular Estate admission: adults, $13.00; children ages 6-11, $6.00; and children under 5 are admitted free.
All day (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.): “General and Mrs. Washington” will be on hand to greet and take photographs with visitors. In the Donald W. Reynolds Education Center, visitors can cool down in the Revolutionary War Theater where “snow” falls on the audience as Washington is crossing the Delaware River.
Visitors can view a replica Liberty Bell on display and rung every hour at Mount Vernon! The bell was cast in the same London foundry and has the same tone as the original bell. Independence Day weekend will be the final weekend for the replica Liberty Bell at Mount Vernon
9:45 a.m: Re-enactors from the First Virginia Regiment assemble for inspection by “General Washington” on the Bowling Green, where the Declaration of Independence will be read. At this time, Mount Vernon’s all-American birthday cake will be offered to visitors (while supplies last).
10:00 a.m: Visitors are encouraged to join the George Washington Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) in a procession to George Washington’s Tomb at 10:00 a.m. for a special wreathlaying ceremony.
11:00 a.m: The annual Red, White and Blue Concert takes place at 11:00 a.m. on the Bowling Green, featuring patriotic favorites by the Concert Band of America, an 80-member company of retired musicians from each of the United States Armed Services’ bands.
1:00 p.m: Revolutionary War military demonstrations by the First Virginia Regiment take place on the Bowling Green.
Summer Farm Life: July has always been a time of celebration at George Washington’s farm as it marks the beginning of the wheat harvest season. To celebrate Washington the farmer, field hands will kick-off the season on Independence Day with wheat-treading demonstrations at the George Washington: Pioneer Farmer site. Costumed staff will lead Mount Vernon’s horses as they tread wheat in the 16-sided barn at 10:30 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Visitors can witness Washington’s innovative treading process, learning first-hand how Washington separated grain from straw.
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Events, programs, and activities are subject to change.
Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); www.mountvernon.org
