Fairfax County (Virginia) August 11, 1761.

Ran away from a Plantation of the Subscriber's, on Dogue Run in Fiarfax, on Sunday the 9th Instant, the following Negroes, viz.

Peros[?], 35 or 40 Years of Age, a well-set Fellow, of about 5 feet 8…

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…

Philadelphia June 18, 1775

My Dearest

I am now set down to write you on a subject which fills me with inexpressible concern - and this concern is greatly aggravated and Increased, when I reflect upon the uneasiness I know it will give you - It…

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…