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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 4, 2005
Contact: Melissa Wood 703.799.5203
mwood@mountvernon.org
Mount Vernon, Va.- Gardeners across the country can now own a replica of a tool used in George Washington’s garden during the 18th century. It’s relatively unknown that our first president had a green thumb, but Washington had a keen interest in gardening and delighted in nurturing the rare and exotic plants which were sent to him from all over the world. Washington held his gardeners in high regard and afforded them the best tools and resources.
The replica is made from hammered copper by Virginia Metalcrafters and can hold up to two and a half gallons of water. Also available is the George Washington Sundial, which has been faithfully reproduced from the original by Virginia Metalcrafters. The watering can and other garden accessories can be purchased through www.mountvernon.org or by calling 703-799-6301. These items are also available anywhere Virginia Metalcrafters products are sold.
Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens holds the two original Washington watering cans in its collections. The two watering cans were listed among the gardener’s tools in an inventory done shortly after Washington’s death in 1799, and were later owned by Martha Washington’s grandson, George Washington Parke Custis. The details of the George Washington Sundial were dictated by Washington to the artist who created it. The original sundial is still at Mount Vernon today.
Visitors with an interest in gardening will want to take part in Gardening Days at Mount Vernon from April 16 to May 7. This is a once-a-year chance to purchase plants, herbs and seeds propagated from historic Mount Vernon plants. Thirty minute tours through the gardens are also offered three times daily through October 1.
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