For Immediate Release
October 5, 2006
Digital images available
Media Contact:
Melissa Wood (703) 799-5203
mwood@mountvernon.org
MOUNT VERNON, Va. – Mount Vernon welcomes the autumn season with Fall Harvest Family Days, October 21 and 22 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at George Washington’s Gristmill, just three miles from the estate. The entire family will enjoy the FREE harvest celebration that includes outdoor cooking, flax to linen demonstrations, colonial music, and a bake sale. See the water-powered mill in action, make a corn husk doll and assist the candle maker. Admission is FREE to the Gristmill this weekend only.
Three miles from the Gristmill on the Estate, visit the Pioneer Farmer site for half-price sightseeing cruises, hayrides, and self-guided farm tours. The farm is included in regular Estate admission: adults, $13; children, 6-11 $6; children 5 and under, free.
At the Gristmill, visitors can see an 18th-century water-powered mill in operation, discover how it works, and learn how this particular mill played an important role in George Washington’s vision for America’s future as “granary to the world”. Costumed millers share stories of the history of the mill and the people who lived and worked there during Washington’s time.
“Mount Vernon’s fall festival is fun and educational,” said Stephanie Brown, Mount Vernon’s Associate Director for Public Affairs. “George Washington’s Gristmill provides a lively glimpse of Early-American Life.”
###
