Made of purple and yellow silk, these shoes are believed to have been worn by Martha Dandridge Custis during her wedding to George Washington. They not only reflect Martha’s status as a wealthy widow but also her youthful exuberance. She may have…

This bureau dressing table was made by Williamsburg cabinetmaker Peter Scott, and is the only known documented piece of furniture made by him. It was purchased by Daniel Parke Custis in 1754. Martha Custis brought it to Mount Vernon after her…

Imported Chinese luxury goods had long been popular in the American colonies. Such goods became more readily available when trade with China opened up after the Revolution. George Washington purchased this lacquered Chinese dressing glass for his…

Letter requesting Martha Washington's approval as "encourager and patron" of The Ladies' Magazine.…

Mount Vernon, September 20, 1765.

Sir: If you will permit me after six years silence, the time I have been married to your Niece, to pay my respects to you in this Epistolary way I shall think myself happy in beginning a corrispondance which…

Williamsburg, May 1, 1759.

Gentln. The Inclos'd is the Ministers Certificate of my Marriage with Mrs. Martha Custis, properly as I am told, Authenticated, You will therefore for the future please to address all your Letters which relate to the…

While George Washington served his second Presidental term in Philadelphia, Martha Washington’s niece Fanny lived at Mount Vernon and oversaw the household. This letter suggests that even when she was away from her home, Martha continued to play…

[Female g]rievances debated, in six dialogues between two young ladies, concerning love and marriage. Viz. I. Proving that women, as well as men, are inclin'd to love, and equally desirous to propagate their kind. II. Shewing what love is, its sorts…

This Civil War-era photograph shows White House, the family home of Daniel Parke Custis, Martha Washington’s first husband. After their marriage at Chestnut Grove, the Dandridge family home, Daniel and Martha moved to White House, where they lived…