Lives Bound Together: Enslavement at George Washington's Mount Vernon
Lives Bound Together is an interactive, virtual exhibit that tells the stories of the people who were enslaved at George Washington's Mount Vernon. It covers extensive information, from global trade to daily life on Washington's five farms, living conditions, freed communities, and more.
Slavery at Mount Vernon
Want to learn more? Watch a short introductory video.
Explore the Exhibit
Click the link to explore the Lives Bound Together Exhibit
Washington and Slavery
George Washington first inherited enslaved people when he was eleven years old, and relied on their labor to run his house and farms throughout the duration of his life.
Daily Life
Daily life for those who were enslaved varied, dependent on skills, location, and job assignments. People still managed to find joy in their daily lives, despite their situation.
Style and Culture
Despite conditions, many people were able to establish families, traditions, and individuality while enslaved at Mount Vernon.
Books and Manuscripts
Information about the enslaved community at Mount Vernon comes from a variety of sources, like farming reports, archaeological artifacts, or newspaper clippings. The Database of the Enslaved Community puts all of these sources together, resulting in an extensive collection for people to read about and research people enslaved at Mount Vernon.
Slavery and Freedom in the 19th Century
What happened to the enslaved population at Mount Vernon after the Washingtons' deaths? Some were freed through George Washington's will, but many were given to grandchildren and relatives, ultimately separating friends and families.
The People of Lives Bound Together
Lives Bound Together explores the stories of individuals who were enslaved at Mount Vernon. These individuals are represented in silhouettes based on archaeological and archival evidence. You can learn more about their stories by clicking the link.
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Teaching with Lives Bound Together
Click the link to access inquiry questions, graphic organizers, lesson plans, and much more to assist in teaching with Lives Bound Together
Need Help?
This page contains helpful instructions on how to navigate the virtual exhibit.
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