Learn about life at Mount Vernon from a character portraying someone who lived and worked here in Washington's time.
Guests have the opportunity to learn from a person who lived in Washington's world with a character tour specially designed for groups.
Contact the group reservations office for dates and times at 703.799.8688 or groups@mountvernon.org. Advance registration and an additional fee are required. Groups can choose from the characters listed below; availability is subject to change.
Martha Washington
Recommended for grades K-12
Listen to stories from the woman who knew George Washington best - his wife, Martha. Martha Washington will regale you with tales of what it was like being married to our first president, hosting guests at Mount Vernon, living in the 18th century, and much more.
Learn More about Mrs. Washington
Ona Judge
Recommended for grades K-12
Meet Ona Judge and listen to the stories of her life at Mount Vernon as an enslaved personal maid to the Washingtons, her plans to escape to freedom, and her struggles to keep it.
Tobias Lear
Recommended for grades 4-12
Tour the estate with Tobias Lear, George Washington's personal secretary and tutor to Mrs. Washington's grandchildren. While learning about Lear's work for General Washington, you may also acquire knowledge about 18th-century manners and customs.
Learn More about Tobias Lear
Christopher Sheels
Recommended for grades K-12
Speak with Christopher Sheels, the enslaved valet to the General. Learn about his life at Mount Vernon and the struggles and dreams of this man in the 18th century.
Learn More About Christopher Sheels
Eleanor Calvert Custis Stuart
Recommended for grades K-12
Listen to Eleanor Calvert Custis Stuart as she answers your questions about her life and what it is like to be daughter-in-law to the Washingtons.
Learn More About Eleanor Calvert Custis Stuart
Dr. James Craik
Recommended for grades K-12
Listen to Dr. James Craik, Physician General of the United States and George Washington's friend, discuss the medical practice of the Revolutionary War and the tools used by doctors in the 18th century.
Learn More About Dr. James Craik
Eleanor "Nelly" Parke Custis
Recommended for grades K-12
Meet Eleanor “Nelly” Parke Custis, Martha Washington’s granddaughter, as she shares vivid stories from her childhood—tales of growing up at Mount Vernon and watching her step-grandfather rise to become the nation’s first president.
Learn More about Nelly Custis
Peter Hardiman
Recommended for grades K-12
Peter Hardiman is the enslaved head groom of the Washington’s stables. Walk around the estate and learn more about his work with the horses and mules, and hear stories of his family.
James Anderson
Recommended for grades K-12
Spend time with George Washington’s farm manager, James Anderson, as he discusses his everyday duties in the historic area of the estate. His insights highlight the farm animals and the farming practices used by Washington along the south lane.
Learn More About James Anderson
"Washy" Custis
Recommended for grades K-12
Martha Washington's grandson, George Washington Parke Custis, invites you to enjoy some of his favorite spots at Mount Vernon, where he grew up. Tour the historic area, including the gardens, greenhouse, and stables, and finish your tour on the piazza overlooking the Potomac River.
Learn more about "Washy" Custis