Historic Preservation

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

George Washington’s home is owned and maintained by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association, the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States. 

8 Facts about Preservation

Mount Vernon's preservation team is constantly working to restore and preserve George Washington's estate.

Restoring Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is one of the best documented and most complete examples of an estate from early America, but discovering, analyzing, and interpreting the mass of available evidence is an ongoing process.

Historic Structures

There are four different types of standing historic structures at Mount Vernon: Original Structures, Reconstructions, Replicas, and MVLA and Period Support Structures. Each of these structures helps tell the story of life at Mount Vernon.

Paint Analysis

The question of what color to paint each room in the Mansion has been asked since the 1860s. Today we use modern paint analysis to help answer the question.

The Restoration Process

Washington's Red Roof

One of the most recognizable features at Mount Vernon is the iconic red roof of the Mansion, but the shingles were not always red.

Terminology

Preservationists use a wide range of terminology in their work. Explore this list of some of their most commonly used terms and tools.

Preservation Quiz

How much do you know about preservation at George Washington's Mount Vernon?

The First Three Objects in the Collections

When the Mount Vernon Ladies Association purchased the estate in the 19th century, the mansion was almost completely empty... with three priceless exceptions!

Martha Washington's Needlework

An unusual example of Martha Washington’s needlework augmented our preeminent collection and further highlighted her often-overlooked artistic ability and creativity.

Re-Creating Mount Vernon's Harpsichord

John Watson, Conservator of Early Keyboard Instruments, is working to create a replica of George Washington’s 1793 Longman & Broderip 2-Manual Harpsichord.

More than Putting Objects on Display

Adam Erby, an associate curator at Mount Vernon, explores what it means to be a curator.

Archaeology at the Slave Cemetery

Between May 2014 and the fall of 2017, archaeologists excavated a total of 211 5 x 5 ft. test units in the Slave Cemetery, and discovered 63 burial features.

Ask An Archaeologist

Curious when and where you can see Mount Vernon's archaeology team at work? Want to understand what they are looking for?

Native American Occupation

Archaeological investigations show Mount Vernon was an attractive location for Native communities for thousands of years prior to the arrival of the Washington family.

Funding Mount Vernon

Joe Bondi, Senior Vice President of Development, explores how his staff supports Mount Veron's preservation efforts.