Edward Savage, West Front of Mount Vernon, c. 1796

This iconic view of the west front of Mount Vernon is the earliest known pictorial representation of the house and grounds. There is a similar painting of the east front. This view is particularly interesting for its portrayal of domesticity. In the foreground George and Martha Washington walk alongside Nelly Custis. Another of Martha’s grandchildren, George Washington Parke Custis, is nearby, standing alongside a pair of hounds. Washington’s slaves and guests also populate the scene (image courtesy of Mount Vernon Ladies' Association).

Edward Savage

1796

eng

Fry-Jefferson Map

Map of Virginia

One of the most famous maps produced in America before the Revolution, the Fry-Jefferson map was a survey of the Virginia/Maryland border. It was drawn in 1752 by surveyors Joshua Fry annd Peter Jefferson (father of Thomas Jefferson). The area containing the locations where Martha Washington lived is visible on the map: Chestnut Grove on the Pamunkey River in New Kent County (where Martha was born); White House, the Custis plantation downriver from Chestnut Grove; and Mount Vernon (image courtesy of the Library of Virginia).

eng