Education at Mount Vernon

Help Us Keep History Alive

History matters at Mount Vernon. We preserve Washington's home so that we can share with the world the powerful legacy of George Washington. We deliver accurate, reliable history and civics instruction around the country, and even the world, through our programs, lectures, conferences and online resources.

Our educational responsibility is significant, and we want to ensure that everything we teach will continue to be relevant, impactful, and inspirational. Please consider making a donation below to support education efforts at Mount Vernon.

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George Washington Exhibition

Since its inception in 2006, the exhibit Discovering the Real George Washington at Mount Vernon's Education Center has offered millions of visitors an enlightening journey through the life of George Washington, from his humble beginnings as a surveyor to his crucial role in the founding of our nation.

From July 2024 through 2025, the Education Center exhibit on George Washington’s life will be off display for an extensive rebuild. The revitalization is guided by three overarching goals: updating the scholarship, addressing outdated technology, and transforming the layout to provide better access to the highlights of Washington’s life.

History Comes To Life in the Classroom

What truly excites many students is seeing original George Washington documents right in their classroom. Teachers are using these primary sources as part of their regular lesson plans. Students view these documents on digital devices and computers, read and transcribe them, and then discuss their analysis of Washington’s words.

Without the availability of these resources, students may never see George Washington’s handwriting, or read in his own words his thoughts on farming, the war, or the new nation he was leading.

Digital Access to History

Mount Vernon provides free and unlimited access to digital resources, making the life and legacy of George Washington accessible to students and educators around the globe. We offer dozens of lesson plans, primary source based interactives, and dynamic videos perfect for student engagement.

For example, the virtual tour allows students to explore our most cherished primary source, the Mansion and grounds, even if they cannot get here in person.