Ben's DC Trip Part 2

The following pictures are mostly of the home of George Washington in Mt. Vernon Virginia. The views were spectacular. The home was beautiful but we weren't allowed to take pictures of the inside. GW himself declared it one of the most desirable pieces of real estate in the country. When he first moved in, the cultivated land totaled about 2000 acres. He worked to expand that to 8000 acres before he died.

As wonderful as his home was he left it and his wife Martha behind for 8 years to fight in the revolutionary war. From 1775-1783 he only returned home to visit a total of 10 days. At the end of the war he had to persuade his officers to abandon plans for a military take over of the country. Then he voluntarily resigned his commission so he could return home and retire. But his work was not through. In 1789 he was unanimously elected to serve as the first President of the United States. After 2 terms and 8 more years he again voluntarily resigned as President. He was determined to let the control of the country be left in the hands of its people.

It was a wonderful privilege to learn about such an inspired man. He was a fearless leader but took no glory for himself. He was completely humble and selfless. During his time as President, Washington considered himself a public servant and he never accepted a single pay check.

This is the detached kitchen where a team of cooks would prepare meals for the Washington's and their guests.

This wind vein sat on top of George Washington's home for centuries, until in 1992 they had to take it down to preserve it.

These were the slave quarters, not the nicest accommodations.

This is the sword that George Washington carried into battle during the revolutionary war.

This is the sight where George and Martha Washington are buried, along with 25 other family members. The grave sight is about a quarter of a mile from the homestead. In his will, Washington requested to be buried here.

After a long day of sightseeing, nothing hits the spot like a couple of fresh Atlantic lobster. (This is actually my very first lobster. It was delicious, but way over priced).