Tours and programs focus on Mrs. Washington, enslaved women, and the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association
MOUNT VERNON, VA— Celebrate 250 years of women’s history at Mount Vernon during Women’s History Month. Throughout March, visitors can learn about the incredible women who lived and worked at George Washington’s estate in the 18th century, as well as the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association—the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States that saved Washington’s home from ruin and continues to operate the estate for nearly one million annual visitors.
Herstory: The Women of Mount Vernon Tour
This 60-minute tour covers more than 250 years of history at Mount Vernon, beginning with Martha Washington's life before her marriage to General Washington. Explore more about Martha’s upbringing, her marriage to Daniel Parke Custis, her children, and her life as a wealthy widow. Meet Mrs. Washington and hear intimate stories about her life. As visitors tour the grounds, they uncover the history of the enslaved women who lived and worked at the estate to maintain the Washingtons’ household and plantation.
On the east lawn, discover the history of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association (MVLA) that has preserved the estate and grounds for more than 150 years. Hear the tales of the MVLA's founder, Ann Pamela Cunningham, who banded together women from across the nation to raise money to purchase the estate, protect it from harm during the Civil War, and preserve it for future generations of visitors. Offered daily, March-October at 12 p.m. $10 in addition to general admission. For more information, please visit mountvernon.org/herstory.
Greet Mrs. Washington
Experience the warm Washington hospitality and exchange greetings with one of Mount Vernon’s two Martha Washington interpreters. A character interpreter portraying Mrs. Washington regales visitors with tales of her life as the first First Lady and her life at Mount Vernon. Martha Washington from 1769 is on site Monday through Thursday, and Mrs. Washington from 1798 graces the grounds Friday through Sunday from 12:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Included with general admission. For more information, please visit mountvernon.org/tours.
Mount Vernon in AR
The estate’s new augmented reality tour, invites guests to enjoy lesser-known stories of the first president’s estate revealed by immersive 3D imagery layered over a view of Mount Vernon’s landscape. Holograms of enslaved women share details about their lives and work, and images of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association highlight their efforts to save Washington’s home. This tour is $12.50 in addition to general admission. “Mount Vernon in AR” availability is weather dependent. For more information, please visit mountvernon.org/AR.
###