Mount Vernon

I've been to Virginia many, many times but this was my first time to visit Mount Vernon, the home of George and Martha Washington.

I was glad that it was during the Christmas season that I went there since it was more festive.


George Washington was the first president of the United States.

George and Martha with her grandchildren 


me and Erin

This was a scale model of the mansion.






The camel was stinky but very docile.

George Washington's Christmas camel

chocolate making demo

This was the turkey that was 'pardoned' by President Obama from being slaughtered. The tradition started with President Bush in 1989 when he granted a turkey 'presidential pardon'.

The National Thanksgiving Turkey




the mansion

After all the outdoor stuff we proceeded to the mansion tour.

a necessary



The Mount Vernon estate was located on the banks of the Potomac River.


We weren't allowed to take pictures in the well preserved home but I managed to sneak an iPhone shot.


The back of the mansion was a popular place for picture taking.




I found the other parts of the estate fascinating. There were so many areas to see. These are just the ones that I liked best.



overseer's cottage


men's bunk room

The servants who were slaves lived in this room. I thought it was a pretty decent living space.







greenhouse


the gardens


wash house


the old vault



Washington's tomb

from Mount Vernon's website:
George Washington died in the master bedchamber at Mount Vernon on December 14, 1799. In his will, he directed that he be buried on his beloved Mount Vernon estate. He also selected a site for a new brick tomb to replace the original burial vault that was deteriorating. The new tomb was completed in 1831, and Washington's body was moved there along with the remains of Martha Washington and other family members. Special wreathlaying ceremonies take place at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, April through October.

This bull was massive.


Back inside the museum there was this hologram of George Washington that follows you as you walk around. Creepy!



Mount Vernon gingerbread house

I really enjoyed my trip to Mount Vernon. Do not miss this!!!

Historic Mount Vernon3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway, Alexandria, VA 22309

Mount Vernon is open 365 days of the year!
April through August, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
March, September, and October, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
November through February, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

The Historic Area of Mount Vernon is cleared a half-hour after the posted estate closing time. The Donald W. Reynolds Museum & Education Center is cleared one hour after the posted closing time.
Tickets

Adults $15.00
Seniors ages 62+ $14.00
Youth ages 6-11 $7.00
Children under 6 FREE