“Not a moment should be lost, after the Wool is taken from the Sheeps backs, in having it Spun & wove, that it may be made up in time for the [enslaved] clothing…” -George Washington, 1793
Activities
You'll be Dying to know...
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2 p.m. - 5 p.m.
12-Acre Field
Learn how various spices, herbs, plants, and even insects were used to create colorful clothing in the 18th century. Watch as our Historic Trades team demonstrates the process of dying wool by hand.
A New Suit
9 a.m.- 12 p.m. & 1 p.m.- 5p.m.
Greenhouse
Watch as Mount Vernon's Historic Costumer and Colonial Williamsburg's Master Tailor complete work on a reproduction of George Washington's inaugural suit.
We Might Be Bias
10 a.m.- 11:45 a.m. & 1 p.m.- 4:30 p.m.
Orientation Center
Martha Washington made many quilts, including three known piecework (or patchwork) quilts. Join our Youth Programs team to learn about this quilting style and design your own quilt using scrapbook paper.
She Sews Sea Shells
11 a.m. & 1 p.m., Sunday only
Interpretive Center
In 1766, Martha Washington began cross-stitching a set of 12 chair cushions in a scallop shell design, and spent the next 35 years working on them. Join “Martha Washington” as she discusses the creation of her famous shell cushions and answers your questions.
