George Washington Birthplace National Monument, National monument and plantation in Westmoreland County, Virginia, United States
George Washington Birthplace National Monument is a working plantation in Westmoreland County along the Potomac River where the first president was born in 1732. The grounds include a colonial-style memorial house, a farm with animals and gardens, and several trails along the shoreline.
The original Washington family residence burned down in 1779, and the current memorial house was built during the 1930s. The plantation remained in the family for generations and became a monument in 1930.
Staff dressed in period clothing show how families worked and lived on a tobacco plantation during the 18th century. Visitors watch wool being spun, fields being tended, and meals prepared using old recipes.
The main area with the memorial house and farm sits close to the parking lot and works well for families with children. The shoreline paths offer shaded sections and take about 20 to 30 minutes.
A small family burial ground on the property holds the graves of 32 Washington relatives from the 18th century. Among them rest the father and grandfather of the future president.
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