Mount Vernon Brings History to Life

Mount Vernon is a short day trip from Washington DC in Fairfax County, Virginia. The recently renovated visitor's center and the grounds of this country estate are filled with fascinating historical artifacts, giving visitors a glimpse at what life was like for George Washington and other gentlemen farmers in colonial America.
George Washington's father originally built Mount Vernon as a farmhouse and the estate is furnished as it would have been during Washington's presidency (1789 - 1797). The nation's first president called Mount Vernon home for 45 years, so the mansion and the surrounding farmland bear the imprint of Washington's legacy.

The 500 acre estate (which was originally 8,000 acres in Washington's time) offers mansion tours that are best suited for adults and older children who don't mind waiting in line to view historic architecture and furnishings. The circular pioneer barn and gardens help recreate the atmosphere of an 18th century farm, as do the sparse living quarters for Washington's slaves, who were freed upon his death in 1799.

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