One of the iconic paintings of the Revolutionary era, this work by John Trumbull depicts George Washington’s resignation as commander of the Continental Army. This moment was of great symbolic significance to Americans, as Washington was…

This needle book was presumably one of the items bought by Martha Parke Custis Peter at the auction specified in Martha Washington’s will.  There is a note sewn to it that reads, 'Mrs. Martha Washington' (image courtesy of Tudor Place…

John Custis was the very wealthy father of Martha Washington’s first husband, Daniel Parke Custis. Custis became a widower after his wife Frances died in 1714. Although initially opposed to his son’s intended marriage, Custis met with Martha…

This unusual diorama, depicting a scene from Greek mythology, was given to George Washington by Samuel Fraunces of Fraunces Tavern in New York (where Washington held many staff meetings during the war). It became one of the Washington’s…

This guitar was a gift to Martha Washington's granddaughter Nelly Custis from George Washington toward the end of his second presidency. It made in London and features an ivory panel with Nelly Custis's…

Edward Savage’s iconic portrait of the Washington Family was originally painted c. 1789-1790. George Washington purchased two engravings of the painting to display at Mount Vernon (one of which is pictured here). It portrays George and Martha…

This bowl has been passed down through generations of Dandridge descendants and is known as the “Dandridge Christening Bowl.”  It is an example of famille verte ware, a style of Chinese porcelain. Although the bowl’s…

George Washington ordered this expensive English harpsichord in 1793 for Nelly Custis, his step-granddaughter. It came to Mount Vernon in 1797 when the Washingtons returned home after the Presidency. Nelly’s harpsichord performances were an…