MOUNT VERNON, VA – This Presidents’ Day, thousands of people visited the home of America’s first President, George Washington. Visitors could get a chance to meet with actors impersonating Washington and other key figures from the 18th century as well as viewing other performances. As part of America’s 250th celebrations, visitors get a chance to view never-before-displayed items of Washington’s.
At Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home just south of D.C., visitors traveled back in time.
“Make ready,” yelled one of the military performers. “Take aim! Fire!”
“It was good,” said Noah, John, Norah and Celeste, who were visiting Mount Vernon and watched the military show. “It was cool, it was loud.” They said the cannon firing off was their favorite part of the performance.
For Presidents’ Day, which celebrates Washington’s birthday, Mount Vernon visitors got to experience an 18th century military demonstration, a musical performance, a wreath laying ceremony at Washington’s tomb and a chance to chat with an actor who portrayed Washington and didn’t break character.
Reporter: What does it mean to you having people visit your old home after 250 years?
“My old home madam,” responded the actor portraying Washington. “I still live here; my bedroom is just right over there. It is always gratifying to have guests, I take great pleasure in the affections of my fellow countrymen and the fact that so many wish to visit me on my natal day. It is a joy I cannot fully express in words.”
But that’s not all. In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, Mount Vernon is showcasing three original pieces of clothing worn by Washington. They’re on display together for the first time ever.
“It’s also the largest grouping of Washington’s clothing on exhibit in decades because it is so rare we don’t often get it all out and on display,” said Amanda Isaac, the chief curator at Mount Vernon. “The exhibit shows a collection of his informal wear. It shows his cooler weather wear, the waistcoat and the coat which are both made of wool broad cloth. As well as summer wear which is the cotton waistcoat and breeches that you see.”
As many celebrate Presidents’ Day and the events surrounding America’s 250th anniversary, we’re told the preservation of Mount Vernon and Washington’s legacy are crucial.
“The reality is you can’t have America without his leadership in the revolutionary war, the Constitutional Convention and the first presidency,” said Dr. Doug Bradburn, President and CEO of Mount Vernon. “And we can’t be good citizens of this country if we don’t know our history, don’t understand where we came from. So, you can’t tell that story without him and the best way to understand him is Mount Vernon. This is the place he cared about most.”
