Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home, is located in Fairfax County, Virginia. He lived here for much of his childhood, learning the ins and outs of planting. In 1753, at the age of 21, he began his military career. Six years later, George made Mount Vernon his adult home after he married Martha. At the time, Ann Washington, the widow of George’s half-brother, Lawrence, still owned Mount Vernon, so George leased the estate from her until he inherited it two years later in 1761. He spent the next four decades renovating Mount Vernon, overseeing most of the details himself.
Everything I have read or watched about this man spoke about his intense longing whenever he was separated from his home. Once the American Revolution ended and he resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army, George was thrilled to be able to return to his beloved Mount Vernon.
After defeating the British, he spent over five years as a private citizen managing his plantation before leaving to, once again, serve his country, this time as the first President of the United States. In office for almost eight years, he finally came home to Mount Vernon for good in March of 1797, passing away less than three years later in December 1799. He was 67 years old.
I was excited to visit this iconic mansion on the banks of the Potomac River on a beautiful late October day. This was HIS home, the man I hold in such high regard. Truth be told, this Daughter of the American Revolution is a bit captivated with her Founding Father. The moment I could make out the outline of the main building, perched on top of a hill, knowing what Mount Vernon meant to George, I was enchanted.
Spending some time on the back veranda in the afternoon sun, I sat looking over the Potomac River. What a gorgeous spot to spend one’s life.
And then, a mirage. George appeared from inside the home, walking onto the lawn. The cape, the hat, the way he carried himself. Part of me wanted to call out to him, to shake his hand. But instead, I let him move down the slope towards the water, until he was lost from sight. Had my mind . . . and my heart . . . just played a trick on me?
The thought of George Washington’s repeated sacrifice on behalf of America is astounding, especially when you see Mount Vernon. But as much as he loved his home, he loved this country more.
#SisterRain # ALittleSightALotOfHeart #LegallyBlindWriter #USHistory #AmerianHistory #USA #America #UnitedStates #AmericanRevolution #GeneralWashington #PresidentWashington #GeorgeWashington #GWMountVernon
