|
For Immediate Release
June 6, 2005
Digital images available
Media Contact:
Melissa Wood (703) 799-5203
mwood@mountvernon.org
MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Mount Vernon invites families to explore “science in motion” this Father’s Day at George Washington’s Gristmill from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fathers will enjoy history and science coming together when costumed millers lead tours of the Gristmill featuring gears that measure up to 16 feet! Watch as water from Dogue Creek goes through the mill, setting the massive gears into motion, and see the end result: cornmeal ready to use in the kitchen! Bags of cornmeal are milled on site and available for purchase. George Washington’s Gristmill is located just three miles south of Mount Vernon on the site of Washington’s original mill and distillery. Combination tickets which include a visit to the Gristmill and Estate are sold at Mount Vernon's Main Gate. Admission to the Gristmill is just $2 for adults and $1.50 for children when added to Estate admission. Children under 5 are free to the Estate and Gristmill.
After Washington inherited Mount Vernon, he rebuilt the Gristmill, making it larger and more efficient. The 18th-century mill was one of Washington’s many enterprises, and the first president is considered a farming pioneer for his innovative techniques. Washington ground cornmeal and flour at the mill that was used at Mount Vernon and traded around the world. The Gristmill is an authentic reconstruction of Washington’s 18th-century mill.
Tours of Washington’s Gristmill provide families with the history of the building and the people who lived and worked at this site over 200 years ago. Picnic tables are available for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
###
Events, programs, and activities are subject to change. Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); www.mountvernon.org
| 
