Washington’s dove of peace atop the Mansion symbolized his hope that peace would prevail long into the future, both at Mount Vernon and across the new nation. Follow these step-by-step instructions to make your own dove of peace puppet.
Supplies Needed
Dove Template (use dove and olive branch only)
Scissors
Glue Stick
Popsicle Stick
Step 1: Color and Cut
Color and cut out the dove and olive branch.
Step 2: Cut the Dove and Olive Branch
With an adult’s help, cut out the dove and olive branch.
Step 3: Glue the Olive Branch
Glue the olive branch to the dove’s beak.
Step 4: Finish Your Puppet
Glue the dove to the popsicle stick.
What is the Dove of Peace Weather Vane?
During the summer of 1787, George Washington was attending the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia, working alongside the other Founding Fathers to create a government for the new nation. While there, Washington commissioned Joseph Rakestraw to construct a weathervane, which was to be installed atop the cupola of the Mansion at Mount Vernon. Washington’s instructions for the weathervane’s design were clear. The weathervane would feature a bird holding an olive branch— a dove of peace.
Restoring the Dove of Peace
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