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Mount Vernon welcomes author Flora Fraser to the David M. Rubenstein Leadership Hall at The Fred W. Smith National Library to discuss her book The Washingtons: George and Martha, “Join’d by Friendship, Crown’d by Love” , on November 4, 2015.

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Date and Time

Cost

Free

Location

David M. Rubenstein Leadership Hall, Fred W. Smith National Library, 3600 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Mount Vernon, Virginia 22121

About the Book

A major work of American history: a full-scale portrait of the marriage of the father and mother of our country–and of the struggle for independence that he led.

Here are the socially awkward young soldier and the charming and very rich young widow he wooed and won; the early years of their marriage at Mount Vernon; his inflexible determination and iron will throughout the long war; she, joining him every year in Valley Forge and the army’s other winter quarters, essential to his personal well-being but also a commanding and admired figure in her own right; and, finally, the eight years of America’s first presidency: he, the reluctant president, and she, the faultless first lady, both longing to return to their beloved Mount Vernon. Here, too, are the domestic Washingtons–Martha presiding over dinners for foreign dignitaries, keeping careful control of her children and her inheritance; George, even while commanding the revolutionary army, always concerned about her welfare and safety, worrying about his stepchildren, and when the rare occasion arose, dancing the night away with any pretty woman he could find. A major, and vastly appealing, contribution to the literature of our founding fathers … and founding mother.

About the Author

Flora Fraser grew up in London and Scotland, and studied classics at Oxford University before becoming a professional writer. She is the daughter of bestselling biographer Lady Antonia Fraser, is the author of Princesses: The Six Daughters of George III, Beloved Emma: The Life of Emma, Lady Hamilton, and Pauline Bonaparte: Venus of Empire. She lives in London.

Parking

Attendees should park in Mount Vernon visitor parking lots and enter the library campus via the pedestrian gate near the 4-way stop.

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Mount Vernon has enjoyed a very special relationship with the Ford Motor Company dating back more than 90 years. We are grateful for their generous support and we applaud their abiding respect for American heritage.