Mount Vernon is the former residence and plantation of George Washington, a Founding Father, commander of the Continental Army in the Revolutionary War, and the first president of the United States, and his wife, … See more

When George Washington's ancestors acquired the estate, it was known as Little Hunting Creek Plantation, named after the nearby Little Hunting Creek. When Washington's older half-brother, Lawrence Washington, … See more

The estate contained 8,000 acres (3,200 ha) when George Washington lived there. As of 2011, the property consists of 500 acres (200 ha), including the mansion and over 30 other buildings near the riverfront.
Constructio… See more

In 1674, John Washington, the great-grandfather of George Washington, and Nicholas Spencer came into possession of the land from which Mount Vernon plantation would be carved, originally known by its … See more

On December 12, 1799, Washington spent several hours riding over the plantation, in snow, sleet, and freezing rain. He ate his supper later that evening without changing from his wet clothes. The following day, he awoke wit… See more