Mount Vernon's Military History

From July 8, 2024, through 2025, the Education Center will close for an extensive rebuild.

During this interactive experience, come face to face with a leadership challenge that George Washington confronted as commander in chief or president.

Scenarios include the Battle of Second Trenton, the Newburgh Conspiracy, the Genet Affair, and the Whiskey Rebellion.

Listen to advice from his most trusted advisers and decide on your course of action.

From July 8, 2024, through 2025, the 4D Theater will be closed for an extensive rebuild.

Exclusively at Mount Vernon, this unique theater experience highlights Washington's role in the Revolutionary War and features snow, fog, and other 4D effects.

From July 8, 2024, through 2025, the Education Center will be closed for an extensive rebuild.

Learn about George Washington’s military career as you explore the galleries of the Education Center. The galleries focus on his extensive service, from his days as a young officer in the French and Indian War to his heroics during the American Revolution.

Smith Auditorium

Watch short films highlighting the critical moments in the Revolutionary War, including Washington’s triumphs at Trenton, Princeton, and Yorktown.

Listen to our Resident Fifer play different fifes, flutes, and a drum to demonstrate their different sounds and functions. Learn about some of the musicians who played music on the front lines of the American Revolution and examine replicas of 18th-century uniforms, books, and sheet music.

May

Watch hundreds of Continentals, Redcoats, and Hessians in action on the estate during this action-packed weekend event.

Throughout the weekend, learn about life in the 18th century, discuss military techniques, and watch battle re-enactments.

In 1782, George Washington issued an order to create the Badge of Military Merit to recognize meritorious action. Today, the Purple Heart is awarded to service members who are injured or killed in action.

In 1992, the Military Order of the Purple Heart (MOPH) established the Purple Heart Trail, which originates at Mount Vernon. 

The marker is off the traffic circle, northeast of the Texas Gate main entrance to the Mount Vernon estate.