Slaves At Mount Vernon: What Life Was Really Like As A Slave Under George Washington
Washington’s Moral Divide
Just a stone’s throw from the nation’s capital, Mount Vernon is home to one of America’s biggest contradictions. Here is the intriguing story of how the “Founding Father of the United States” oversaw hundreds of those who were enslaved.
Virginia’s Slave History
Slavery started Virginia in 1619 when the first Africans landed at Point Comfort. At first, some enslaved people who became Christians were able to win their freedom. But by 1667, Virginia made it a law that getting baptized wouldn’t allow you to be free anymore.
Early Inheritance
George Washington was entitled a slave owner when he was just eleven years old after his dad died in 1743. He inherited ten enslaved people and Ferry Farm as part of the deal. Washington himself grew up in Virginia’s plantation culture.
Mount Vernon Acquisition
After his brother Lawrence’s death in 1752, Washington leased Mount Vernon from Lawrence’s widow. After acquiring the estate entirely in 1761, he took command of more enslaved laborers who kept up the growing plantation activities.
Marriage Expansion
Washington’s marriage to Martha Dandridge Custis in 1759 really uplifted his slave holdings. He ended up with control over eighty-four “dower” slaves from her estate. Even though he couldn’t legally own them, he was the one in charge of their work.
