19th Century Cruises on the Potomac River

This 1878 handbill advertised excursions to Mount Vernon on the steamer Mary Washington, provided by one of the local steamboat companies that contracted with the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association to offer exclusive cruise service to Washington's home.

In addition to serving Mount Vernon visitors, the steamboat also transported farmers’ goods to market, with convenient stops at several points along the Potomac River.

Steamer landing at Mount Vernon in 1915 (Detroit Publishing Co.)

Although automobile transportation eventually eclipsed the popularity of Mount Vernon cruises, boat companies continued to provide the service for the throngs of visitors who sought the scenic Potomac route to George Washington's home.

Today, the historic cruise to Mount Vernon continues to delight thousands of visitors to George Washington's home each year, as brand new excursion vessels have replaced the steamboats that once dominated Potomac. As the Spirit of Mount Vernon glides toward the Mount Vernon wharf, the elegant cruiser sails in the wake of the countless steamships, sailboats and pleasure craft that for over two centuries have transported guests to the national’s most popular historic home.