Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

DETAILS

Project: Patriots Path Revolutionary War Encampment at George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Term: Four Years 
Commitment: $1 million

DESCRIPTION

The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, the first national historic preservation organization in the United States, is the oldest women's patriotic society in the country. Its pioneering efforts in the field of preservation have served as a model for many. With the support of Americana Corner, Mount Vernon created its first on-site Revolutionary War encampment using period-appropriate reproduction tents and equipment to immerse visitors in the daily life of soldiers, military officers, and the civilian followers who traveled with the Army. 

Visitors will be able to walk through the encampment and see the differences between the soldiers’ and officers’ quarters. To commemorate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, specific battles will be highlighted and living history interpreters will share the stakes, the emotional and logistical challenges, and the feeling of wartime during the Revolutionary War. Period objects, including clothing and personal hygiene items, as well as reproduction maps and documents from events corresponding with the 250th anniversaries will be on display. Guests will be able to try their hand at washing clothes and hanging them to dry in the laundry yard, and handle the various tools needed for cooking for a large number of people. 

OBJECTIVES 

• Create a functioning Revolutionary War encampment with staff, tents, and activities.   

• Provide guests with a better understanding of life in the 18th century, especially during the Revolutionary War, and an increased appreciation for the sacrifices made for the founding of our country.  

• Engage visitors, especially students on field trips, with hands-on demonstrations and immersive educational experiences with living history interpreters. 

• Inspire and educate the general public during the years commemorating the 250th anniversaries of our nation’s independence and the various battles of the Revolutionary War.   

Learn more about the Preserving America Partners program.