Mount Vernon's serene 12-Acre Field transforms into a battleground as Continentals, Redcoats, and Hessians conduct military drills, perform cavalry demonstrations, and engage in 18th-century tacticals.
Meet the soldiers who are encamped at Mount Vernon, discuss military techniques, and greet General Washington.
Visit with Camp Followers
Camp followers — mostly women and children — traveled with the army, either because of their relationship to a soldier in the army, or displacement because of the war.
Like the men enlisted in the army, the camp followers were often “on the strength” of the army and were issued wages and rations for their work. Camp followers supported the army in a variety of ways, including as washerwomen, seamstresses, nurses, and petty sutlers selling their wares to the soldiers.
Tour the 18th-century military encampments and see the camp followers go about their daily lives following the army.
Walk Through Washington's War Tent
Walk through the Museum of the American Revolution's replica of General Washington's War Tent, which served as the marquee—or office and sleeping quarters—that he used as the command center of the Continental Army.
The Museum of the American Revolution staff will be onsite to discuss the tent and answer questions.
Virtual Tour of Washington's War Tent
Learn more about the First Oval Office Project
