Explore the Estate with an 18th-Century Character
This 60-minute tour showcases George Washington’s Mount Vernon as it may have been seen through the eyes of one of the men or women employed or enslaved at Mount Vernon.
Please note:
- Any of the character interpreters portraying a real 18th-century resident of Mount Vernon may lead the tour and may change without notice.
- The tour begins at Mansion circle; please allow at least 10-15 minutes to walk from the main entrance to the tour’s starting point.
- Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Character interpreters reserve the right to end the program if the Guest Code of Conduct policy is violated.
James Anderson, Whiskey Distiller & Farm Manager
James Anderson was born in 1745, near Edinburgh, Scotland. His family, including his wife and seven children, emigrated to America about 1791. Anderson began working for Washington as a farm manager and whiskey distiller in 1797. In a 1798 letter, Washington wrote that he believed Anderson to be “a man of strict integrity; sobriety; industry & zeal."
- Learn about George Washington’s innovative farming practices.
- See heritage breed animals, and hear about their uses in the 18th-century.
- Discuss Washington’s whiskey enterprise and the construction of his distillery.
Christopher Sheels, Enslaved Valet to Washington
Christopher Sheels worked as George Washington’s personal attendant, or valet, from around the age of 20. Sheels was born into slavery, circa 1776, and his grandmother ‘Old Doll’ had been among the original ‘dower’ slaves who were brought to Mount Vernon in 1759. Despite a foiled escape attempt, Sheels was present at Washington's death in 1799.
- Get insight into the duties of an 18th-century valet and Washington’s high expectations.
- Hear about Sheels' attempted flight for freedom in 1799 and how he was caught.
- Explore Washington’s gardens and estate, and learn about the lives of Sheels’ family and community.
Ona Judge, Enslaved Maid to Mrs. Washington
Ona Judge worked as Martha Washington’s personal maid from about the age of 10, circa 1783, until her escape from the presidential residence in 1796. Judge was born into slavery; her mother, Betty, was enslaved by the estate of Martha Washington’s first husband.
- Tour the Washingtons’ gardens and estate, and learn about the lives of Judge’s family and community.
- Understand what life was like as a member of the president’s household in Philadelphia.
- Hear the story of Ona’s successful escape to freedom.
Tobias Lear, Washington's Secretary
Tobias Lear, born in 1762, was employed by George Washington in 1786 to manage his expense reports and correspondence. Later, Lear was hired to tutor Martha Washington's grandchildren and developed close connections with the Washington family. Lear recorded Washington’s final hours before his death in 1799.
As you explore the estate, your tour guide will discuss:
- The Revolutionary War’s impact on the expansion of Mount Vernon
- The ideas and concepts encapsulated in Washington’s design
- The duties of a private secretary and the work he carried out for Washington during the Presidency
Eleanor "Nelly" Parke Custis
Eleanor “Nelly” Parke Custis was the youngest of Martha Washington’s three granddaughters. She was born on March 31, 1779, at the mid-point of the American Revolution. Following the death of her father in November of 1781, Nelly and her brother George Washington Parke Custis “Washy” came to live at Mount Vernon with the Washingtons.
- Tour the Washingtons’ estate as she shows you her favorite places on the grounds.
- Learn what life was like growing up in the 18th century for the granddaughter of one of the most famous men in the world.
- Hear stories of the presidency in New York and Philadelphia from the young lady who was called America’s Princess.
Peter Hardiman, Enslaved Groom
Peter Hardiman, worked as an enslaved groom whom Washington rented from a relative. He oversaw the stable’s operations for George Washington and was instrumental in breeding mules for the General. Hardiman married Caroline Branham, a housemaid and seamstress, and together they had six children.
- Tour the Washingtons’ estate and the enslaved people’s quarters, and learn about the lives of Hardiman’s family and community.
- Understand Hardiman's work done in the stables and his role in directing other enslaved individuals.
- Learn about Hardiman’s skill with horses and mules.
