Preservation In Action

Preservation work is always underway at George Washington's estate to ensure that generations to come will be able to enjoy the founding father's home.

The restoration of Mount Vernon is an ongoing process that began in the 19th century and continues today. More than 12 original buildings on the estate are exposed to the extremes of weather and wear put on them by more than one million visitors each year. Mount Vernon's preservation team is made up of experts who are leaders in their field, using cutting-edge tools and technologies to restore and preserve the estate to how it appeared at the time of Washington’s death in 1799.

I have scarcely a room to put a friend into, or to set in myself, without the Music of hammers, or the odoriferous smell of Paint.

George Washington to James McHenry, April 3, 1797

During your visit, you can explore the ongoing efforts to preserve Mount Vernon.

Archaeology

East Lawn and Slave Cemetery

Mount Vernon's archaeology team are working this season on the East Lawn and at the Slave Cemetery. Throughout the early fall archaeologist can often be found working at these sites. Feel free to stop and ask questions.

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North Garden House

Upper Garden

The North Garden House is an original 18th-century structure and a rare example of a surviving octagonal outbuilding. A structural assessment revealed a significant amount of the 18th-century framing still survives, but some of it has pronounced deterioration. Mount Vernon's preservation team is currently restoring the structure.

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Updates

Mount Veron's Preservation team provided a series of up-close updates of their work.

Watch the entire series

Archaeology in Action Tour

Take an inside look at the history of the Mount Vernon archaeology program and the current discovery efforts in progress.

Take the Tour

Preservation Tour

Discover the estate's ongoing preservation work during this 60-minute behind-the-scenes tour. Meet Mount Vernon's architectural historians and venture into areas rarely seen by guests.

Take the Tour

Where to See Preservation Work

Support Mount Vernon

Preservation work never ends. Each year, the Mansion, outbuildings, and grounds are exposed to the extremes of weather and the wear put on them by more than one million visitors.

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