Annual Report 2022_

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THE MOUNT VERNON LADIES’ ASSOCIATION 2022 Annual Report

Cover: Jean-Antoine Houdon bust of George Washington, transferred to the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association through the generosity of John Augustine Washington III, 1860 (W-369).

Above: A quiet May morning in the Upper Garden before the estate opens.

the mission of the mount vernon ladies’ association is to preserve, restore, and manage the estate of george washington to the highest standards and to educate visitors and people throughout the world about the life and legacies of george washington, so that his example of character and leadership will continue to inform and inspire future generations.

2022 Annual Report

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2022 ANNUAL REPORT

Contents

Letter from the Regent | 4 Letter from the President | 5 Strengthening Our Foundations | 6 Preserving the Mansion | 8 and Historic Area Teaching America’s Story | 16 Securing Our Future | 32 Year in Numbers | 48 Financial Highlights | 49 Fine and Decorative Arts | 50 Collection Acquisitions Library Collection | 54 Highlights Thank You to Our Supporters | 57 The Mount Vernon | 72 Ladies’ Association

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Mount Vernon is the heart of George Washington... It is a place where history is not static but becomes a living, shared narrative that continues to unfold.

It is a place of natural beauty where we honor the founding of our country every single day. —margaret h. nichols, regent 2022 Annual Report

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Letter from the Regent

I

t is with great pleasure that I

hired laborers, and the Mount Vernon

write to you today, reflecting on

Ladies’ Association. Also on display in

the remarkable achievements of

the exhibit is the largest collection of

the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

original Washington objects,

in 2022. This past year, tremendous

many of which were acquired in 2022.

progress was made in our education and

This past year also saw the debut

preservation efforts, ensuring a vibrant

of Mount Vernon’s latest short film

future for this historic estate.

production, George Washington and the

I often think about what this place,

Pursuit of Religious Freedom. The film,

Mount Vernon, means. Mount Vernon

which analyzes religious freedom in

is the heart of George Washington.

early America and Washington’s role

It is a place where his legacy and

in ensuring religious freedom for all,

leadership inspire ideas and intellectual

has a far-reaching impact through our

engagement, enveloping people of all

educational outreach programs and

ages and backgrounds. It is a place

lesson plans for teachers. In a time

where history is not static but becomes

of rising antisemitism across the

a living, shared narrative that continues

globe, Washington’s message of

to unfold. It is a place of natural beauty

religious liberty could not be more

where we honor the founding of our

relevant or needed.

country every single day.

The Mansion is the central focus

And what would this place be if

of our many preservation efforts. We

not for the trailblazing founder of the

have recently completed the four-year

Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

project to restore the exterior façade

(MVLA), Ann Pamela Cunningham,

and provide much-needed protection

who, in 1858, secured the purchase of

for the nearly 85% original fabric of

Mount Vernon from the Washington

the building’s exterior. As I write this

family? The MVLA continues to honor

letter, the scaffolding has been removed,

the long-standing stewardship of its

but the work on the Mansion is just

mission to preserve, restore, and manage

beginning. Over the next few years,

the estate of George Washington and

the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

educate visitors about his life and

is embarking on its most ambitious

legacy, inspiring future generations.

preservation work on the home

In 2022, we celebrated the opening of the highly anticipated museum exhibit, Mount Vernon: The Story of

of George Washington since its purchase more than 165 years ago.

The Mansion is a wooden structure

an American Icon. This exhibit is a

that has welcomed more than one

testament to the long history of Mount

million guests each year for nearly

Vernon and tells the story of those

a century. The goal of the Mansion

who shaped it, from the earliest native

Revitalization project is to preserve

settlers, the Washington and Custis

and protect the Mansion as it enters

family members, the enslaved and

its fourth century. As the nation’s first

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

preservationists, we are committed to securing this shining beacon for the next century of visitors.

On behalf of the Board, I thank you for your commitment and for embracing our mission. Your generous support underscores the many initiatives across the estate and shows firsthand the power of investing in the future.

Together, we will continue to protect and advance the enduring legacy of George Washington.

Margaret H. Nichols Regent

Letter from the President

I

am delighted to share with you the

Rights, and the ongoing evolution of

remarkable achievements of the

civic engagement, we find common

Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

ground as Americans. George

throughout the year 2022. At a time

Washington’s importance persists, and

when Americans are anxious about the

we continue to celebrate his legacy

polarized and often uncivil nature of

today. But we can also recognize the

our political discourse, the mission of

reality of Mount Vernon as a plantation

the MVLA—to preserve Washington’s

site, a place of innovation but of course

home at the highest level and educate

of slavery. The lives of the people

people around the world about his

enslaved at Mount Vernon can be best

extraordinary legacy—remains

understood by visiting Mount Vernon,

remarkably powerful and relevant.

seeing the world they built together

And I am happy to note that in 2022

with the Washingtons, and learning

we served that mission well, and with

about the legacy of their lives, passions,

exceptional reach and impact.

and triumphs.

In 2022, we welcomed a budget-

One of the most significant impacts

busting 830,000 guests to Mount

we make is through our educational

Vernon, the highest number since the

outreach. Our free classroom materials,

onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and

on-site teacher workshops, and virtual

many more than we had anticipated

professional development programs

in the slow summer of 2021. Our hope

have reached many teachers in school

is that each of these visitors connects

districts across all states, utilizing the

their life to the great experiment

best virtual learning tools identified

in democracy launched by George

during the pandemic. In 2022, we

Washington and is inspired to recognize

completed our fifth short film, George

his remarkable achievements in the

Washington and the Pursuit of Religious

creation of American liberty. I know

Freedom, available to stream for free,

visits in the past have stayed with

along with lesson plans to share with

visitors, as I have heard countless

teachers around the country. In the last

stories from supporters as I travel

year, we were honored to premiere the

across the country about how their visit

film in New York, California, Texas,

to Mount Vernon has forever influenced

and Rhode Island to hundreds of

them, even if it was just a school trip to

enthusiastic crowds, while thousands of

the nation’s capital.

schoolkids have been able to learn these

Mount Vernon holds a unique ability to reflect the entirety of our

critical lessons in the classroom.

The George Washington Presidential

nation’s history. Through its celebration

Library, driven by hundreds of academic

of George Washington’s life as the

researchers who visit each year,

commander-in-chief of the Continental

continues to be a leading center for

Army, chair of the Constitutional

studying George Washington’s 18th-

Convention, and the nation’s first

century world. Our digitization efforts,

president, it embodies the spirit of our

such as those relating to the George

great nation. Through the principles

Washington, Martha Washington, and

enshrined in our Constitution, Bill of

family papers, along with the American

Revolutionary Geographies Online (ARGO) project, extend the Library’s influence globally. In 2022, the Mount Vernon Symposium brought together the world’s foremost horticulturalists, and we celebrated our third international symposium in Madrid on “Spain and the Global Struggle for United States Independence” in November.

Once again, I want to express my gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support.

Without your dedication, none of these achievements would have been possible. Your contributions, be they financial, through membership, or simply spreading the word about Mount Vernon, make a difference. Together, we are preserving the legacy of George Washington and ensuring that Mount Vernon survives, so that the experiment in self-rule launched by our great hero will last for generations to come.

With deepest appreciation,

Douglas Bradburn, Ph.D. President and CEO

2022 Annual Report

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STRENGTHENING OUR FOUNDATIONS

The Campaign for Mount Vernon

B

y the end of 2022, Strengthening

The MVLA was honored to be one of

were enslaved. This will take place

Our Foundations: The Campaign

16 organizations from across the United

through tours, brochures, Library

for Mount Vernon had raised

States to receive a grant from Lilly

acquisitions, and updated content in

more than $130 million for the important

Endowment Inc., through the second

the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and

projects chronicled in these pages.

round of its Religion and Cultural

Education Center exhibition on George

Institutions Initiative. The grant will

Washington’s biography.

Through the support of this Campaign, Mount Vernon is taking on immediate

support the interpretation of religion

Planning, content development,

preservation challenges, ensuring

across the estate as we educate visitors

and design work are underway for the

educational resources and programs are

about George Washington’s religiosity,

rejuvenation of this exhibition. This

second to none, and increasing annual

the importance of the establishment of

effort will transform the footprint

support while building a transformational

freedom of religion in the founding of

and flow of the experience to be more

endowment that will secure the financial

our country, and the religious practices

impactful and immersive for more

strength of the Mount Vernon Ladies’

of the 18th-century community at

visitors, improve navigation and access

Association (MVLA).

Mount Vernon, including those who

to popular features, incorporate the

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

latest methods of museum education,

opening of the museum exhibit, Mount

We are grateful to the tens of

and refresh displays with the most

Vernon: The Story of an American Icon.

thousands of donors from across

Boeing made a major five-year

the country who have supported

current scholarship. John and Adrienne Mars pledged their support for this

commitment to underwrite a number of

the Campaign at all levels, and

project, and Jacqueline B. Mars also

Mount Vernon’s public events including

opportunities remain to become

designated half of her commitment

those on July 4, Purple Heart Day, and

involved in the Campaign. Many

to the exhibition’s revitalization. The

Veterans Day.

important projects need funding,

remainder will support the Campaign’s

We continued to expand our

and every gift makes a difference as

priorities of historic preservation,

reach to new audiences nationwide.

we strive to ensure Mount Vernon

education, and endowment.

During 2022, events emphasizing the

remains a shining symbol of American

Many projects supported through

importance of George Washington and

independence for generations to come.

the Campaign were completed in 2022.

Mount Vernon were held in Florida,

These include the restoration of the

Illinois, New York, Rhode Island,

New Tomb, the reinterpretation of the

and Texas, with many hosted by

Lafayette and Small Rooms, and the

Vice Regents.

2022 Annual Report

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preserving the m a nsion a nd histor ic a rea East Front Restoration New Tomb Restoration The Lafayette and Small Rooms

PRESERVING THE MANSION AND HISTORIC AREA

Mansion East Front Restoration

A

s spring brought baby lambs

restoration with added challenges.

to 1860 and the pillars to 1893. Harrison

and daffodils to Mount

The piazza’s ceiling, entablature, and

H. Dodge, former Mount Vernon

Vernon, our preservation

columns expanded the scope of the

Resident Superintendent, and his crew

team embarked on restoration of the

project, increasing the area treated to

even left us a message dated September

Mansion’s East Front, the third and

5,000 square feet, compared with 2,550

12, 1893, as testament to their work.

final phase of a multiyear project

for the West Front. Deterioration to

encompassing the entire exterior of the

the framing of the entablature, due to

thrown onto the linseed oil paint on

house. Beginning in 2019, work on each

water infiltration, required the design

the columns and entablature, the team

façade has proceeded systematically:

and execution of significant carpentry

transitioned to paint removal on the

removal of more than twenty layers of

repairs. We also repaired and repainted

siding, working through the fall and

modern paint and sand to expose the

the cupola and three dormers, all of

winter under the shelter of the piazza

wooden siding boards; identification

which have survived substantially

roof. The final phase of the Mansion’s

and documentation of original elements

intact from the 18th century. The golden

exterior restoration was completed on

and later repairs; repairs to the siding,

ball of the weather vane was re-gilded

schedule in April 2023.

windows, window and door trim, and

and is shining brightly again.

shutters; and finally, application of fresh

After the last handful of sand was

We also learned a great deal about

paint and sand, carefully matched to

the piazza’s construction history.

George Washington’s original finishes.

The current structure is the third-

The General’s distinctive two-

generation addition to the Mansion

story piazza presented the East Front

since 1777, with the entablature dating

2022 Annual Report

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PRESERVING THE MANSION AND HISTORIC AREA

New Tomb Restoration

I

n 2022, Mount Vernon’s

of moisture on this semi-subterranean

damaged wood lath were stripped away

preservation and project

structure. The last major restoration

and replaced; original wood ceiling ribs

management teams collaborated

campaign occurred in the 1930s, when

were painstakingly reinforced.

with preservation architects and

Mount Vernon Superintendent Colonel

specialist artisans to complete a major

H.H. Dodge’s attempts to waterproof

involved raking (cleaning out) all

restoration of George and Martha

the roof were so successful that they not

exposed mortar joints—on interior

Washington’s New Tomb, a revered site

only prevented rainwater from getting

and exterior faces of the perimeter

of pilgrimage for visitors from across

in, they inadvertently trapped water

wall as well as the vestibule. This was

the nation and the world for almost two

vapor rising from the ground. This

necessary because the hard Portland

centuries. Located on a site specified by

trapped water vapor slowly deteriorated

cement used as mortar in the 1930s

George Washington in his 1799 will, the

the lath, nails, and plaster that made

was forcing moisture into the soft

Tomb consists of three main sections

up the ceiling over the sarcophagi,

1830s bricks, causing deterioration.

constructed in the 1830s: an enclosed

ultimately causing the plaster to fail.

Repointing with a soft mortar matched

vestibule housing the marble sarcophagi

The most time-consuming work

To address this underlying problem,

to the 1830s mix will prevent further

of General and Mrs. Washington; an

new vents at the eaves and a covered vent

damage. No interventions were needed

underground vault extending back into

at the roof peak were installed to allow

to the inner vault, and the Washingtons’

the hillside, containing the remains of

water vapor to escape, without admitting

sarcophagi were carefully protected

other Washington family members; and

rainwater. Several coats of polymeric

with custom plywood boxes throughout

a brick perimeter wall.

sealant were applied to the metal roof,

the restoration campaign, which has

with each coat a different color so that

put the final resting place of General

completed in December 2021

future preservationists will be able

Washington in excellent condition for

documented the MVLA’s historic

to monitor when the top coats wear

the 21st century.

efforts to manage the damaging effects

away. Inside the vestibule, plaster and

An in-depth condition assessment

The restoration of the Tomb was generously supported by Wayne and Grace Rickert; The Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Virginia; the George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Foundation; Mr. and Mrs. Richard J. J. Sullivan, Jr.; the Grand Lodge, A.F. & A.M. of Virginia; Ms. Estelle Stamm; and others from across the country.

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

PRESERVING THE MANSION AND HISTORIC AREA

The Lafayette and Small Rooms

T

he year marked an important

and gave his name to the space, but

instructive contrast to the carved

milestone in the Mansion

by 1799, the furnishings listed in the

mahogany, London-made chairs found

restoration as preservation

space and the lower values assigned to

in more expensively furnished guest

and curatorial teams completed the

them on the inventory suggested that

chambers. Red-striped cotton, neat and

Lafayette and Small Rooms, bringing

a family member was using the room.

elegant, drapes the high-post bed,

all of the bedchambers in the second-

The recollections of Betsy Mason, Vice

windows, and chairs, a simple fabric

floor core of the house into alignment

Regent for Virginia in 1872, provided

characteristic of the modest furnishings

with the latest paint analysis and

the missing piece of the puzzle,

used by the Lewises in the 1790s. The

research. All now feature the cream-

confirming that Martha Washington’s

reproduction wallpaper is a sophisticated

painted woodwork preferred by George

granddaughter Eleanor (Nelly) Parke

flower sprig pattern. Its black-and-white

and Martha Washington in the 1790s,

Custis Lewis and her husband, Lawrence

design with deep pink accents features

reproductions of period wallpapers, and

Lewis, had used the room in 1799.

a motif inspired by Persian and Indian

distinctive furnishings representative

The focal point of the room is the

textiles, popular in elite American

of specific purchases by the couple.

three-quarter length portrait of the

homes in the late-18th century.

The visible hierarchy of the rooms

Marquis de Lafayette, a high-quality

vividly presents itself in the gradation

reproduction of the original that once

allowed the Washingtons to

of quality, material, and color in the

hung here, and is currently on view in

accommodate additional guests when

furnishings of the Yellow, Chintz, Blue,

the museum. Hung in the room after

other bedchambers were full. To

Lafayette, and Small Rooms.

The aptly named Small Room

Lafayette’s visit, the portrait served

represent its comfortable but simple

Analysis of George and Martha

as a remembrance of the room’s most

furnishings, curators installed an

Washington’s probate inventories,

famous occupant and Washington’s

original Washington-owned shaving

purchase records, and the recollections

adopted son. A set of mid-18th century

stand, a period Virginia-made low-post

of an early Vice Regent enabled curators

Virginia-made walnut chairs with

bedstead, dressing table, and Windsor

to bring back the rich history of the

pierced but uncarved backs represent a

chairs. The reproduction wallpaper

Lafayette Room. The Marquis de

type of locally-made chairs occasionally

features a repeating fan design.

Lafayette stayed in the room in 1784

used at Mount Vernon, and offer an

The restoration of the Lafayette Room was generously supported by Karen M. and Jefferson W. Kirby; The Florence Gould Foundation; The Felicia Fund; the French Heritage Society; the Estate of Paul and Sally Houdayer; Mr. and Mrs. S. Dillard Kirby; the George L. Shields Foundation, Inc.; an anonymous donor; and others from across the country.

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

teaching a merica’s story Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon Student Learning The Return of Guests Library Achievements Research Fellows

TEACHING AMERICA’S STORY

Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon In March 2022, Mount Vernon unveiled

in store for them inside. Bold colors,

new to Mount Vernon’s collections,

an expansive and inclusive new

lively patterns, and state-of-the-art

treasured by Martha’s descendants for

permanent exhibition, Mount Vernon:

casework activate furniture, paintings,

generations before the MVLA acquired

The Story of an American Icon. The

silver, and ceramics, creating a fresh,

them in 2020. Through a landmark loan

exhibition traces the rich and complex

modern setting for these historic objects.

from Washington and Lee University,

history of Mount Vernon—not only the

The object-rich exhibition represents

the exhibition also brings together the

celebrated era of George and Martha

the largest reunion of original Mount

original Washington and Custis family

Washington, but the lesser-known

Vernon artifacts since the dispersal

portraits. Once displayed together in

stories of the enslaved community,

of George and Martha Washington’s

Mount Vernon’s front parlor, these

earlier and later generations of

estates in 1802. Visitors can revel in

paintings include Charles Willson

Washingtons, and the MVLA.

the details of such iconic objects as

Peale’s 1772 portrait of a 40-year-

Across nearly 5,000 square feet and

George Washington’s swiveling office

old George Washington, the earliest

seven galleries, the exhibition presents

chair, Nelly Custis’s state-of-the-art

portrait of him.

Mount Vernon’s permanent collection in

harpsichord, and the Mansion’s original

new and innovative ways. Architectural

gilded weathervane. Many objects—

are paired with never-before-exhibited

changes opened up additional sightlines

Martha Washington’s diamond-studded

artifacts from Mount Vernon’s

into the museum, providing visitors in

pocket watch, her ruffled cotton robe, a

architectural and archaeological

the lobby with a sneak peek of what lies

French porcelain ice cream cooler—are

collections. Fragments of stone tools

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

These paintings and decorative arts

from 10,000 years ago, the Mansion’s

$200,000 to purchase the property

grounds. Visitors also meet the 19th-

original cupola spire, a handmade

in 1860 and continue to preserve and

century Washingtons who managed

brick with finger impressions of its

operate the site today.

Mount Vernon as Americans began to

anonymous maker, a fragment of the

The exhibition features three major

visit en masse, transforming a private

piazza’s 19th-century balustrade: these

sections. “Making Mount Vernon:

objects reveal the layers of Mount

The Work of Many Hands” traces the

“Treasured Possessions: The

Vernon’s complex history, which

evolution of Mount Vernon’s landscape,

Material World of Mount Vernon”

includes Native settlements, other

from seasonal Native settlements 10,000

showcases a dazzling array of original

Washington family members, enslaved

years ago, through John Washington’s

items owned by George and Martha

and hired laborers, and the determined

1674 land patent, to George Washington’s

Washington and used at Mount

women of the MVLA who raised

dramatic overhaul of the house and

Vernon—family portraits, musical

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

home into a national shrine.

instruments, porcelain punch bowls, garnet jewelry, a child’s teething rattle.

Visitors learn about the power of objects to reveal the Washingtons’ values, taste, and identities, while also discovering the hidden histories of the enslaved people whose lives were intertwined with the Washingtons. Archaeological artifacts from a slave quarter reveal how members of that community treasured objects of their own.

2022 Annual Report

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“Saving Mount Vernon: The Mount

sections, the Gilder Lehrman Gallery

prominent visitors including presidents

Vernon Ladies’ Association of the

provides a space for changing displays

and royalty, and some of the nearly

Union” explores the trailblazing work

on special topics. The opening

300 Vice Regents who have served as

of the nation’s oldest national historic

installation focuses on new acquisitions,

board members since 1860. Interactive

preservation organization. Beginning

highlighting treasures from the Peter

touchscreens enable visitors to engage

with MVLA founder Ann Pamela

Family Collection and the Richard

with the objects and history, providing

Cunningham’s innovative fundraising

H. Brown Revolutionary War Map

opportunities to “play” the harpsichord,

campaign in the 1850s, the display

Collection. The seven cases in this

zoom in on paintings and artifacts, and

showcases the work of the women who

gallery will be updated regularly to

explore how and why the Mansion’s

meticulously restored and continue

present new discoveries and showcase

appearance has changed over time.

today to preserve Mount Vernon.

material on relevant and timely topics.

With Mount Vernon: The Story of an

Through architectural fragments, early

Throughout the galleries, visitors

acquisitions, and historic photographs,

“meet” individuals who have shaped

Mount Vernon’s extraordinary collections

visitors learn about the MVLA’s

Mount Vernon, including Washington

and immerse themselves in the history

groundbreaking preservation work and

and Custis family members, enslaved

of this iconic place. By the time they

ongoing leadership in the field.

and hired laborers such as cook

leave, they will realize that they, too, are

Hercules Posey and fieldhand Delia,

part of Mount Vernon’s story.

In addition to these three permanent 22

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

American Icon, visitors can revel in

Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon and the acquisition of the Peter Family Collection were generously supported by Maribeth and Wm. Harold Borthwick; Sarah Miller Coulson; John and Adrienne Mars; Mr. and Mrs. P. William Moore, Jr.; The Connoisseur Society of Mount Vernon; The Founders, Washington Committee for Historic Mount Vernon; The F.M. Kirby Foundation; The Nimick Forbesway Foundation; Margaret and James Allison; Mrs. Wm. Lipscomb Davis, Jr.; James L. Freeman and Laura Lofaro Freeman; Lambert Kayden Family Fund, Sandra and Jeremiah Lambert; Helen Herboth Laughery; Jacqueline B. Mars; Jess and Grace Pavey Fund; The Richard S. Reynolds Foundation; Lucy S. Rhame; Andrea and Kenan Sahin; Dr. Scholl Foundation; Randy and Kelly Schrimsher; LTC Timothy and CPT C. Monika Stoy, USA and KyungJin & HaeSook Choi; Susan M. and P. Coleman Townsend, Jr.; Honorable Terri Lynn Land and Daniel Tedford Hibma; Bruce and Pamela Perkins; Kristina Ingrid and Thomas Gerard Schendt; Catherine M. and Frederick H. Waddell.

2022 Annual Report

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TEACHING AMERICA’S STORY

Student Learning Seeing Mount Vernon through a student’s perspective can be both enlightening and powerful. In 2022, students picked words such as “fun,” “amazed,” and “curious” to describe their experience. The staff at Mount Vernon adjusted to the welcome return of student groups to the estate with new programs created during the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 that provided more engaging outdoor and immersive experiences for students on-site. Additionally, our staff reached even more students with new digital programs accessible to classrooms.

On-site, nearly 300,000 students explored all corners of Mount Vernon and shared that the highlights of their experiences ranged from the Mansion to the farm, and the Tomb and cemetery to the museum. We brought back our early access for student groups, including an optional breakfast addon, during our high-traffic season in the spring and early summer, which provided students an additional hour of visitation. Inviting students into the Mansion before our more traditional tourists arrive allows us to switch our Mansion interpretation to one better suited to student curiosity, social engagement, and high volume.

The Mansion is the highlight of most visits, but student experiences thrive in other places at Mount Vernon, too. We saw 87% of student groups visit the Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center and 70% visit the Tomb and cemetery area. During 24

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

our Colonial Days program, 5,000

elected as the second President of the

students explored an activated farm

United States. After 75 minutes of

area, and 2,500 people from home-

immersive gameplay, students emerged

school groups did the same at our spring

with a newfound respect for the

and fall Homeschool Day programs.

difficulties of governing and the immense

Through these broad and wide-ranging

pressure on George Washington to lead

explorations, students in school groups

with integrity and purpose.

were 30% more likely to remember

Many students who played the

learning about slavery and the lives of

Situation Room game arrived at

enslaved people than youth visiting

Mount Vernon for a full day of leadership

Mount Vernon with their families.

training through the Ammerman

Initially launched in the fall of 2019

Student Leadership Program. Through

at the George Washington Presidential

this student program, and our Student

Library, the Situation Room Experience:

Advisory Board, Mount Vernon staff

Washington’s Cabinet, is an immersive

engaged students in meaningful

live-action role-play game. During

conversations about what leadership

the first full semester of bookings for

looks like from their perspective. These

the game in 2022, 616 students from

conversations provided us important

13 schools were hosted. Each player

insight into what resonates with

was cast as a member of Washington’s

students and the challenges they face in

presidential cabinet, the Senate, the

the 21st-century world, and informed

Press, or as a diplomatic representative,

the creation of materials and resources

and together they tried to resolve the

for the classroom.

foreign and domestic crises that plagued

For the second year, we were

George Washington’s second term as the

honored to award the Mount Vernon

nation’s first president. The outcome of

Prize for Excellence in Civics and

the game is not static, and the gameplay

History in honor of Dr. Jennifer London

determines whether or not the young

to two outstanding young leaders. Each

fragile nation survives, and if so, who is

student used Washington’s biography

to inspire and inform their community and peers. Mariya Koval, an exchange student in Wisconsin, spoke at local patriotic societies and used Washington’s biography as an inspiring narrative to motivate concern and support for the war in her home country of Ukraine.

Anthony Labib shared the lesser-known story of Washington’s support for the smallpox vaccine in response to increased conversations about vaccines. These important awards contributed to our understanding of how Washington’s biography resonates with young people today.

The digital pivot Mount Vernon made in 2020 in response to the COVID-19 pandemic led to increased connections with students unable to come here on a field trip. We virtually reached almost 1,000 additional students, 522 of whom were from Title 1 schools, through our direct-to-classroom programs, where one staff member talked to one classroom. To achieve a wider reach, we also offered one-tomany digital programs where multiple classrooms enrolled at once, including four to celebrate Washington’s birthday and four to commemorate Thanksgiving. More than 750 classrooms participated in these programs, with multiple students from each classroom joining the discussions.

“Not only for his role in creating and leading the fledgling nation, but also for his leadership style, political beliefs, and revolutionary vision for the United States of America, George Washington is one of the most important characters in American history. President Washington established standards for everything from political influence to military strateg y to economic policy.”

Anthony Labib, Middle School Student of the Year 2022 Annual Report

25

“…it may be compared to a well resorted tavern, as scarcely any strangers who are going from north to south or from south to north do not spend a day or two at it.”

-George Washington, 1787

TEACHING AMERICA’S STORY

The Return of Guests

T

here is a mystique about

stopped to seek advice or approval or to

time marches on. Slowly, the memory

Mount Vernon, an unseen

peek behind the curtain of what life was

of Washington’s accomplishments

force that beckons people to

like for their hero. The Washingtons

morphs through the expanding fog of

visit. Washington’s letter to his mother

faced this burden on their privacy

the past. Memories become legends.

from 1787 demonstrates that Mount

with grace, opening their home and

Legends become myths. Where once

Vernon’s halls were always full. For

hospitality to friends and strangers

travelers sought inspiration at the

18th-century visitors, a trip to Mount

alike. It was so common to have guests

sight or memory of Washington, a

Vernon required great effort over poor

that their absence was a point of note

modern audience seeks inspiration by

roads and great distances. The allure

in a 1797 letter from Washington to

rediscovering what made Washington

of Mount Vernon was enough for those

his secretary, Tobias Lear. “Unless

so revered.

intrepid few brave enough to overcome

some one pops in, unexpectedly, Mrs

For more than 160 years, the MVLA

those challenges. For them, the chance

Washington and myself will do what I

has helped countless millions discover

to see the great man, speak with him,

believe has not been [done] within the

the real George Washington. Their

and see his estate was worth the

last twenty years by us, that is to set

mission, to preserve and educate,

effort. What motivated them to make

down to dinner by ourselves.”3

inspires the current generation to

this pilgrimage? It wasn’t anything

The frenetic pace of visitation did

follow Washington’s example of

mysterious; it was George Washington.

not end with Washington’s passing.

leadership while ensuring his home

Washington’s unquestioned celebrity

Thousands came year after year to

stands as a beacon of scholarship for

meant his home became a national

walk the grounds, roam the halls,

countless generations to come. Through

symbol, a place of discourse on politics,

and pay their respects. Washington’s

the modern era, Mount Vernon has

diplomacy, the arts, agriculture, and

final resting place, the New Tomb,

positioned itself as one of the country’s

the economy. Everyone from future

became a national monument to

premier museums, with more than one

presidents, inventors, dignitaries from

America’s first citizen, keeping the

million visitors a year.

Europe, or simple American travelers

flame of Washington alive. Inevitably,

26

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

18th century through the eyes of those

Personalized experiences shattered

unprecedented challenges. Mount

The global pandemic of 2020 brought

who knew Washington in life. They

expectations. Public Specialty tours

Vernon, just like Washington, ventured

are back, reflecting on Washington’s

generated $428,273 from 34,082 tickets

into “untrodden ground” when it closed

relevance as they take in the splendor

sold, an increase of $116,803 and 11,194,

its doors to the public. One million

of the estate. They are back in numbers,

respectively, over even pre-pandemic

visitors in 2019 shrank to 240,000 in

more than 800,000 in 2022! They are

levels in 2019. Public and private events

2020, doubling to just over 500,000 in

back because the guests’ desire to learn

also had a healthy showing, capped with

2021, and much like Washington and

never disappeared. Fortunately, neither

Mount Vernon by Candlelight, focused

his army at Valley Forge, Mount Vernon

did Mount Vernon.

on Washington’s exemplary leadership

persevered. It persevered because of

The focus for 2022 was to return

during the revolutionary year 1772.

institutional leadership and because,

to normal operations as much as

Then-President John Adams delivered

after years of the unknown, the

possible. The “100 Days” period

the news of Washington’s death to the

mystique of George Washington is just

returned, and robust visitation from

Senate. He said of Washington, “His

as strong now as it was more than 220

our middle school guests was solid.

example is now complete, and it will

years ago.

Historic Trades returned to the Farm

teach wisdom and virtue to magistrates,

The guests are back. They are back,

Wednesday through Sunday with

citizens, and men, not only in the

touring the Mansion, walking through

weekend tours at the Gristmill and

present age, but in future generations as

the rooms where Washington lived.

Distillery. Blacksmiths plied their

long as our history shall be read.” The

They are back recounting Washington’s

trade to the delight of children and

remarkable return of guests to Mount

incredible accomplishments. They

adults. Character interpreters resumed

Vernon proves that the present age

are back, seeing demonstrations and

their roles, moving from informal

still hungers to learn from the example

watching history made before their

engagements on the grounds to set

of Washington, and we are willing to

eyes. They are back, experiencing the

programming in a theatrical space.

continue to tell that history.

2022 Annual Report

27

TEACHING AMERICA’S STORY

Library Achievements

T

he Fred W. Smith National

event brought together leading

the ongoing diplomatic and cultural

Library for the Study of

gardeners, historians, horticulturists,

relationships between Spain and the

George Washington stands as

archaeologists, and preservationists

United States, from the presidency of

the standard of scholarly excellence,

from around the world

George Washington to the present day.

dedicated to the preservation and

as they embarked on a collective journey

The event was held as part of Mount

exploration of the life and legacy of

to reconsider the importance of

Vernon’s Travel Program and paired

one of America’s most influential

gardening, landscapes, and design in

with exclusive access to cultural sites

figures, George Washington. As the

early America. Through stimulating

around the country for those

custodian of an extensive collection

presentations and thought-provoking

in attendance.

of primary sources and artifacts, the

discussions, participants explored the

The Washington Library

Library plays a vital role in advancing

profound impact of these elements on

continues to be on the forefront of

our understanding of Washington’s

the nation’s cultural and historical

digital creation. This year, through

contributions to the nation’s founding

identity during George Washington’s era.

the work of the Center for Digital

and his enduring impact on American

The Washington Library conducted

History, the Library was thrilled to

history. What sets this institution apart

its third international conference in

announce the release of our podcast

is its unique ability to unite leading

2022. The conference, titled “Spain

series, “Intertwined: The Enslaved

academic fields of research under one

and the Global Struggle for United

Community at George Washington’s

facility, offering a comprehensive and

States Independence,” facilitated

Mount Vernon.” This eight-part series

multidisciplinary approach to studying

the convergence of historians from

delves into the lives and labors of the

the remarkable life of the first President

both sides of the Atlantic, offering a

more than 577 individuals enslaved

of the United States. Through its

comprehensive examination of the role

by George and Martha Washington at

unwavering commitment to excellence

of Spain in the wars for empire, contests

Mount Vernon. Through captivating

and collaboration, the Library continues

for territory, and the Enlightenment-era

biographies of notable figures such as

to be a pivotal resource for scholars,

political ideas that profoundly shaped

Sambo Anderson, Davy Gray, William

educators, and the public, ensuring that

the 18th century. The conference also

Lee, Kate, Ona Judge, Nancy Carter

Washington’s legacy remains a vibrant

shed light on Spain’s crucial decision

Quander, Edmund Parker, Caroline

part of our national heritage.

to declare war on Great Britain in

Branham, and the Washingtons

1779, underscoring the significant

themselves, this podcast serves as a

the highly anticipated Mount Vernon

legacy of this event. Moreover, the

poignant exploration of the enslaved

Symposium, held from June 3 to

discussions extended beyond the

community’s experiences. It allows

June 5, 2022. This prestigious

American Revolution, delving into

us to better understand the historical

One of the highlights of the year was

28

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

realities of slavery at Mount Vernon

resources, we create opportunities for

America, the Revolutionary era, and

and reflect on how we interpret and

researchers to delve deeper into the

the early American republic. Their

share this complex history at our

intricacies of Washington’s life and

diligent research and groundbreaking

historic site today.

times, fostering a more comprehensive

contributions have enriched our

understanding of his leadership,

institution’s intellectual landscape,

use, we have established a new online

values, and contributions. These

fostering new perspectives and insights

card catalog. This innovative tool

newly acquired materials not only

into the history that shaped our nation.

simplifies the process of finding relevant

shed new light on Washington as an

Our 2022-2023 class has brought a great

resources and elements within our

individual but also provide invaluable

diversity of new topics to the forefront

vast collection. With improved search

insights into the workings of his

of academic thought.

functionalities, researchers, scholars,

estate at Mount Vernon. They serve

The mission of the George

and visitors alike can now navigate our

as invaluable primary sources that

Washington Presidential Library at

Library more efficiently, enabling them

enable scholars to reevaluate existing

Mount Vernon remains steadfast in

to delve deeper into the wealth of

narratives, challenge assumptions,

providing robust scholarship that

knowledge and primary sources available.

and uncover untold stories, ultimately

illuminates the life and achievements of

Expanding the Washington

enriching our collective knowledge of

George Washington. Through rigorous

Library’s collection to make more

this pivotal period in American history.

research and the dissemination of

materials available to researchers

By making these materials accessible

scholarly works, the Library aims to

is of paramount importance in

to researchers and the public, the

equip teachers and educators with

advancing our understanding of

Washington Library continues to foster

the necessary resources and insights

George Washington and his role in

a vibrant intellectual community that

to effectively convey the stories of

shaping American history. The past

contributes to the ongoing exploration

George Washington to their students.

year witnessed significant strides in

of George Washington’s life and the

By nurturing a deep understanding

this regard, as we actively sought to

enduring significance of his legacy.

of Washington’s character and

To enhance accessibility and ease of

enrich our holdings with additional

This year marked the resumption

contributions, the Library empowers

duplicate editions and acquire new

of our on-site scholarship through

educators to inspire a new generation

letters and manuscripts that offer

the Mount Vernon Research Fellows

with the values and lessons embodied

fresh perspectives on Washington

program. These esteemed fellows

by the Father of Our Country.

and the operations at Mount Vernon.

have played an instrumental role in

By broadening the range of available

advancing our understanding of colonial

2022 Annual Report

29

TEACHING AMERICA’S STORY

Research Fellows

M

ount Vernon continues to foster academic research on George Washington and the founding era. The Research Fellowships program offers short-and long-term fellowships for scholars. This program

provides funding and living space at the Richard and Helen DeVos House on the grounds of the Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington.

Fellows gain access to the Library’s collections and interact with Mount Vernon staff to advance their academic pursuits. Learn more at mountvernon.org/researchfellows.

2022-2023 Research Fellows Michael A. Blaakman, Ph.D.

David Hsiung, Ph.D.

Adam Xavier McNeil

Princeton University, The Simcoes:

Juniata College, The Military

Rutgers University, Survival and

Enemies of the Revolution

Metabolism of the American

Resistance of Enslaved Women of

Revolution: An Environmental

the Chesapeake

Chloe Chapin

History of the War of Independence Johann Nuru Neem, Ph.D.

Harvard University, Black & White: Fashioning Masculinity in the American Republic Timothy Davis, Ph.D. National Parks Service, America’s

Philip Levy, Ph.D.

Public Work: The Development of

Westmoreland Gothic: Six

American Democracy (1750s–1850s)

Generations of Land, Slavery, and the Washington Family

Ramin Ganeshram Westport Historical Society,

Susan Brynne Long

Alteration, Repurposing: Common

University of Delaware, Prisoner

Practices with Sartorial Goods in

of War Management in the

North America between 1750–1850

American Revolution Alec Zuercher Reichardt, Ph.D.

Cooking Up Freedom Jennifer Jones Marler Evan Haefeli, Ph.D.

Marina Elizabeth Nye University of California – Los Angeles,

Appian Way: The Evolution of the Mount Vernon American Pilgrimage

Western Washington University,

University of South Florida,

University of Missouri, War for the

University of South Carolina, Free

Interior: Empires & Communications

Texas A&M University, George

Black Women Who Worked for Wages

in the Struggle for North America (The

Washington, Anti Popery, and

at Mount Vernon

Society of Colonial Wars Fellowship)

the Making of Early America (The Lilly Endowment Religious Studies Fellowship) Kate Haulman, Ph.D.

30

Whitney A. Martinko, Ph.D.

Helena Yoo Roth

Villanova University, Mr. Peale’s

The Graduate Center – City

Corporation: The Corporate Origins

University of New York, American

of Cultural Property in the Early

Timelines: Imperial Communications,

American University, Mary Ball

United States (James C. Rees

Colonial Time-Consciousness, and the

Washington: The Other

Fellowship on the Entrepreneurship

Coming of the American Revolution

Washington Monument

of George Washington)

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Rachel A. Shelden, Ph.D. Pennsylvania State University, The Political Supreme Court: Partisanship, Power, and the Origins of the “Apolitical Justice” (James C. Rees Fellowship on the Leadership of George Washington) Darci L. Tucker Independent Scholar, Revolutionary Women Emily Wells College of William & Mary, “Keep Within Compass”: Geography and Girlhood in the American South, 1783

Career status 9 university faculty 7 Ph.D. candidates 3 independent scholars

Fellowship length 14 one-month fellows 5 three-month fellows

secur ing our future Birthnight Supper and Ball National Birthday Celebration Pursuit of Religious Freedom: the Award-Winning Film The Founders, Washington Committee for Historic Mount Vernon The Life Guard Society of Historic Mount Vernon Mount Vernon Travel Program The Connoisseur Society Spirit of Mount Vernon Washington Cabinet

SECURING OUR FUTURE

Birthnight Supper and Ball

O

n February 20, a record 230 guests gathered for the 75th annual Birthnight Supper & Ball—Mount Vernon’s longest-running fundraiser. This tradition celebrates the birth of George Washington. Organized by the Neighborhood

Friends, this sold-out black-tie gala supported the restoration and preservation of George Washington’s beloved home.

Neighborhood Friends Steering Committee

The Neighborhood Friends are Mount Vernon members who live on one of George Washington’s original five farms. They support the estate’s mission of education and preservation through their membership contributions.

Joe and Ann Somerset, Co-chairs (Riverwood on Union Farm) Eric and Danae Delman (Mount Vernon Terrace on Union Farm) Stephen Fahy and Marjorie Roddy (Stratford on the Potomac on River Farm) Daniel and Hyunjoo Fleming (Stratford Landing on River Farm) Matt and Audra Gannon (Riverwood on Union Farm) Julia Gluck (Waynewood on River Farm) Lynn and Lexalynn Hooper (Stratford on the Potomac on River Farm) Barry and Tracy Hutchison (Stratford Landing on River Farm) Scott and Gayla Keller (Tower House on River Farm) Chris and Elizabeth Massey (Belle Rive on Union Farm) David McCallum and Victoria Grady (Wellington on River Farm) Paul and Janis Mikolashek (Surrey-at-the-Potomac on forest adjacent to Mansion House Farm) Michael and Magda Patrick (River Farm) Mark Platt and Julie McLellan (Dogue Run Farm) Greg and Melissa Prunchak (Riverwood on Union Farm) Gregory and Kristin Try (Waynewood on River Farm) John and Pat Veatch (Collingwood on the Potomac at River Farm) 34

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Platinum

Bronze

Burke and Herbert Bank Design Cuisine Fireline Corporation Mrs. Julia C. Gluck Perfecta

Stephen Fahy and Marjorie Roddy Mary and David Giachetti Holliday Hurd and Gus Polichron Barry and Tracy Hutchison Michael and Magda Patrick Anne and Peter Rogers Kate Shuster

Gold John and Stavroula Alachnowicz Cricket Bauer and Tim Messman Dick and Janice Crosby David McCallum and Victoria Grady Rachael Glaws Pinedo and Joshua Pinedo Jim and Jo Carol Porter Joseph and Ann Somerset

Silver Eric and Danae Delman Farmers & Distillers Matt and Audra Gannon John and Ruth Huber John H. Kerby and Theresa Thompson Greg and Melissa Prunchak

Patron Leslie Beavers Jonathan and Mary Biegel Richard and Lorraine Breen Daryle and Katherine Cardone Mr. and Mrs. Mike Cellini Mr. Daniel K. Chandler and Mrs. Neysa M. Slater-Chandler Ms. Jeanne M. Defliese and Capt. James D. Huck, USN (Ret.) Nick Deis Alan Edmiaston Dan and HJ Fleming Francis Michael Goeser Ms. Rozalyn Goettsch and Mr. David Bass Mr. Jake Goodman Mr. Brian Hanfling and Ms. Mary Henely

Mr. and Mrs. James Harry Julie Hasler Lynn and LexaLynn Hooper Courtney Irvin Dr. Megan Laabs Emma Lopo-Sullivan and Daniel Sullivan Ms. Sarah Magruder Lyle and Mr. Brian J. Lyle Chris and Elizabeth Massey Alan and Sandra Mathews Nelson and Peggy McCouch Fritz and Suzanne McDougall Paul and Jan Mikolashek Wanda and Roger Monthey John and Nancy Myrick Mark Platt and Julia McLellan James Reed Michael Ryan Victor Splan and Patrice Kelly Rosemarie Spuhler LTC Timothy & CPT C. Monika Stoy, USA and KyungJin & HaeSook Choi Gregory and Kristin Try Jack and Pat Veatch Patrick Wilson and Jason Geske Robert Wright and Charlotte Sallfors Darren Zic

2022 Annual Report

35

SECURING OUR FUTURE

National Birthday Celebration

O

n February 22, viewers from across the nation joined in the virtual celebration of George Washington’s 290th birthday. The broadcast featured lectures by Pulitzer Prize winners Joseph Ellis and Gordon Wood; National

Book Award Winner Nathaniel Philbrick; historian Lindsay Chervinksy; Judge Rohulamin Quander; and journalist John Avlon. The event included a birthday auction supporting Mount Vernon, a spectacular fireworks show over the Potomac, and a birthday toast delivered to General Washington. It was one of our most viewed presentations in 2022.

Lead Sponsor Americana Corner

Gold Historic Hotels of America

Silver The National Society of Washington Family Descendants George Washington Chapter, Virginia Society, Sons of the American Revolution

Bronze Hallmark Iron Works

Patron Mr. Miguel Browne and Ms. Silvija A. Strikis Mrs. Cynthia Sweeney

36

Screenshots of the broadcast throughout the evening.

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

SECURING OUR FUTURE

Pursuit of Religious Freedom: the Award-Winning Film

M

ount Vernon proudly presents its 5th short film, George Washington and the Pursuit of Religious Freedom, an extraordinary cinematic journey into the life and legacy of America’s first president. This captivating film

shines a spotlight on George Washington’s groundbreaking precedent in establishing the separation of church and state and championing the concept of religious freedom long before such rights were enshrined in the Bill of Rights.

Produced in collaboration with long-time partner Wide Awake Films, the film’s captivating visuals were primarily shot in Newport, Rhode Island, with support from the Newport Historical Society and the Touro Synagogue, lending authenticity to the historical narrative.

Premiering at the prestigious 92Y in New York City, with the esteemed David Rubenstein as host, the film has since captivated audiences nationwide through several regional premieres. Its message of tolerance, freedom of conscience, and the historical significance of George Washington’s contributions continue to inspire viewers of all ages.

To ensure its accessibility to a wider audience, George Washington and the Pursuit of Religious Freedom can be enjoyed for free on YouTube. Moreover, it is available for download on popular platforms like iTunes and Google Play, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the film’s compelling narrative at their convenience.

Recognizing the power of education in preserving history, Mount Vernon’s dedicated education team has developed supplemental materials for teachers. These resources empower educators to incorporate the film’s insights into classrooms nationwide, ensuring that George Washington’s timeless vision for religious freedom reaches young hearts and minds.

The creation of this cinematic masterpiece was made possible by a generous donation from Irv and Nancy Chase, whose philanthropy continues to make a profound impact on preserving historical narratives for future generations.

Adding to its well-deserved acclaim, George Washington and the Pursuit of Religious Freedom recently earned a prestigious silver Telly award, recognizing its artistic brilliance and powerful storytelling.

The film can be viewed by visiting mountvernon.org/religiousfreedomfilm 2022 Annual Report

37

SECURING OUR FUTURE

The Founders, Washington Committee for Historic Mount Vernon

O

n June 5, the Founders Committee hosted more than 150 guests for its annual spring fundraiser, which supported the new museum exhibit, Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon. Guests enjoyed cocktails on

the east lawn. This was one of the best-performing Founders events to date.

Founders Committee Members

The Founders, Washington Committee is a group of patriotic women from the Washington, DC area. Since 1980, their fundraising has supported many programs and projects furthering the mission of the MVLA. Their ardent work has added inestimably to the Mount Vernon experience.

Mrs. I. Townsend Burden III, Chair, Washington, DC Mrs. Geoffrey B. Baker, Washington, DC Mrs. Edmund Bartlett III, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. Peter Boer, Alexandria, VA Miss Edith H. Brewster, Washington, DC Mrs. Brice M. Clagett, Sarasota, FL Mrs. James M. Costan, Washington, DC Mrs. H. Richard Dietrich III, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. Eric P. Fraunfelter, Bethesda, MD Mrs. James Gerber, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. Ian Glenday, Washington, DC Ms. Lee Bradford Guerry, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Constance B. Harriman, Washington, DC Mrs. Jeffrey P. Hart, Washington, DC Mrs. Joseph W. Henderson III, Berryville, VA Mrs. Mark J. Kington, Alexandria, VA Ms. Martha Dippell Korengold, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. Jeremiah D. Lambert, Palm Beach, FL 38

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Mrs. Charles G. Mackall, Jr., The Plains, VA Mrs. I. Guyman Martin III, Washington, DC Mrs. Thayer Sargent McGregor, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. David B. Morgan, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. Thomas E. Petri, Fond Du Lac, WI Mrs. Philip W. Pillsbury, Jr., Washington, DC Mrs. John Daniel Reaves, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. Robin D. Roberts, Washington, DC Mrs. Kristina Schendt, Chevy Chase, MD Mrs. William E. Schuiling, Alexandria, VA Ms. Catharine Trauernicht Scott, McLean, VA Mrs. W. N. Harrell Smith IV, Washington, DC Mrs. Lucille Anderson Streeter, Washington, DC Ms. Hilary C. West, Washington, DC Ms. Frances C. Wheeler, Delaplane, VA Mrs. A. Smith Bowman, ‡ Emerita, McLean, VA Mrs. Togo D. West, Jr., Emerita, Washington, DC Miss Eleonore Wotherspoon, Emerita, Northport, MI

Benefactor

Sponsor

Anonymous Margaret and Jay Costan Sanda and Jerry Lambert Mrs. Frances C. Wheeler

John and Stavroula Alachnowicz Richard and Susan Ammerman Anonymous Ms. Lydia P. Arnold and Mr. Jonathan Wolcott Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey B. Baker Mr. and Mrs. J. Goodwin Bennett Robert J. Bernasconi Ann and John Bookout Mary L. Bowman ‡ Edith H. Brewster Mr. and Mrs. Childs F. Burden Irving and Nancy Chase Sarah Miller Coulson Martha Dippell and Danny Korengold Louisa C. Duemling Jeff and Joan Ferrill Mr. and Mrs. Eric P. Fraunfelter Elisabeth French Emily T. Frick Mary and David Giachetti The Honorable Douglas H. Ginsburg and Ms. Deecy Gray Lee Bradford Guerry and Witney W. Schneidman Bonnie and Frank Henke Mr. and Mrs. John J. Huber Holliday Hurd and Gus Polichron Thomas S. Kenan III Carol and Peter Kirby Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Mackall, Jr. John Marshall Catherine H. and Michael R. Mayton

Leader Mary and Ed Bartlett Valerie and Townie Burden Diana S. Clagett Mr. and Mrs. Ian Glenday Kiplinger Family Foundation Helen Laughery David and Nancy Morgan Catharine W. Trauernicht and K. Dunlop Scott

Patron Cricket Bauer and Tim Messman Peter ‡ and Ellen Boer The Frances and Townsend Burden Foundation Una Keyes Davis Mr. and Mrs. James C. Gerber Robert and Mimie Helm Lucia and Joe Henderson Dr. Deborah Jessiman and Mr. Alistair Jessiman The Le Vine Foundation Beth and Robin Roberts Mr. and Mrs. William E. Schuiling The Honorable Edward Whitfield and The Honorable Constance Harriman Eleonore Wotherspoon ‡ = Deceased

Leander and Stephanie McCormick-Goodhart Joseph and Margot McGinley Noah and Hilary Mehrkam Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mollett Mrs. Judy Morgan Peter and Christine Nickerson Mrs. R. Kendall Nottingham Georgina Owen and Outerbridge Horsey Mr. John Pellett and Ms. Sally S. Marfing Nina Pillsbury Mr. and Mrs. John Daniel Reaves Mrs. George Revitz Mr. and Mrs. Bruce C. Ross-Larson Mr. and Mrs. J. Schley Rutherford Christopher S. Sargent Thomas and Kristina Schendt Mrs. W. N. Harrell Smith IV Mr. and Mrs. Samuel B. Sterrett, Jr. Lucille and Richard Streeter John Taft and Christine Taft Susan M. Townsend Catherine Marlette Waddell Dr. John Wallace Ellen C. Walton Katherine J. Ward Hilary Carter West

2022 Annual Report

39

SECURING OUR FUTURE

The Life Guard Society of Historic Mount Vernon

T

he Life Guard Society welcomed more than 300 guests to its largest and most successful fundraising gala on September 17. The event supported the curatorial restoration of the Washingtons’ historic kitchen, with the

remaining net proceeds designated for the revitalization of the Education Center.

The evening featured al fresco cocktails, a seated dinner on the east lawn, fireworks, and tours of the Mansion and historic kitchen. Chef Patrick O’Connell of the Inn at Little Washington, the only 3-Star Michelin restaurant in the Washington D.C. area, designed the evening’s menu and addressed the audience. This was the most successful Life Guard event to date.

Life Guard Society Members

Named after the elite group of soldiers responsible for ensuring the safety of George Washington, today’s members of the Life Guard Society hold fundraising events to support specific projects at Mount Vernon and support the estate through personal contributions. Membership in the Life Guard Society is not considered an honorary role, but rather a call to action—members give generously their time, talent, and resources to help with a wide variety of signature projects focused on Mount Vernon’s mission.

Ms. Cricket Bauer, Chair, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Kim David, Executive Committee, Baltimore, MD Dr. Jennifer Burkhart London, Executive Committee, McLean, VA Mrs. James E. Porter, Executive Committee, Fairfax Station, VA Lt. Col. (Ret.) Edmund P. Ryan, Executive Committee, Paris, France Mr. Jeffrey L. Steele, Executive Committee, Bethesda, MD Mrs. Stavroula Alachnowicz, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Barbara J. Becker, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Sheri Cavaney, Alexandria, VA Mr. Daniel K. Chandler, Alexandria, VA The Honorable Sean T. Connaughton, Alexandria, VA Mr. Richard A. Crosby, Alexandria, VA Ms. Jeanne M. Defliese, Alexandria, VA Mr. William Downey, Williamsburg, VA Mr. Akram R. Elias, College Park, MD Mrs. Lindalee Fitton, Alexandria, VA Christie Garton, Esq., McLean, VA Mr. Robert W. Helm, Ellicott City, MD Dr. Robert Highsmith, Dumfries, VA Mrs. Gudrun Hooff, Lorton, VA Mrs. Holliday L. Hurd, Alexandria, VA

40

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Mr. Peter C. Keefe, Alexandria VA The Honorable Walter D. Kelley, Jr., Alexandria VA Mr. Steven Kelmar, Alexandria, VA Mr. John H. Kerby II, Arlington, VA Mr. Gerald Kohlenberger, McLean, VA Mr. Vernon T. Lankford, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Alice Legum, Annapolis, MD Mr. James H. Lemon, Jr., Arlington, VA Mr. Christopher M. Little, Mc Dowell, VA Mr. Ronald H. McCall, Ashburn, VA Mr. Shane McCullar, Alexandria, VA Mr. James D. Penny, Williamsburg, VA Ms. Lola C. Reinsch, Arlington, VA Mrs. Ilona S. Savage, Alexandria, VA Ms. Kate Shuster, Alexandria, VA Mr. Paul S. Stevens, Alexandria, VA Mr. Richard J. J. Sullivan, Jr., Pawling, NY Mr. Cyrus A. Ansary, Emeritus, Bethesda, MD Dr. Peter H. Cressy, Emeritus, Falls Church, VA Ms. Claire Dwoskin, Emerita, Arlington, VA Mrs. T. Eugene Smith, Emerita, McLean, VA

Benefactor Cricket Bauer and Tim Messman Pierre and Martina Hayward

Leader Scott B. and Kimberly L. David Mrs. Holliday L. Hurd and Mr. Gus Polichron Frank F. Islam and Debbie Driesman Mr. and Mrs. Daniel McGinn Mr. and Mrs. Wayne C. Rickert Kate Shuster Jeffrey and Barbara Steele

Patron John and Stavroula Alachnowicz Anonymous

Dr. Robert Highsmith and Dr. Sarah Fogg Ms. Joan Lindsey and Mr. James Lindsey James D. and Pamela J. Penny The Honorable and Mrs. Lee L. Verstandig

Champion Anonymous Mr. Daniel K. Chandler and Ms. Neysa M. Slater-Chandler The Honorable and Mrs. Sean Connaughton Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Crosby Ms. Christie Garton and Dr. Matthew Thompson Mary and David Giachetti Mr. Newell M. Grant

Robert and Mimie Helm Gen and Mrs. John F. Kelly Mr. and Mrs. Steven Kelmar John H. Kerby and Theresa Thompson Terri Lynn Land and Daniel Tedford Hibma Alice and Harry Legum Marlene Malek Dr. and Mrs. Elias G. Nimmer Jim and Jo Carol Porter The Honorable Trevor A. Potter and Mr. Dana Westring Ed and Lori Ryan Steven W. Spandle and Kev Massoyan Mr. and Mrs. Paul Schott Stevens Richard J. J. and Gail F. Sullivan Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Tritt

2022 Annual Report

41

SECURING OUR FUTURE

Mount Vernon Travel Program

F

rom September 21–29, the Mount Vernon Travel Program welcomed more than 50 guests to a five-day tour of Spain following an academic conference hosted by the Washington Library. This experience explored Spain’s ties

to the United States, along with the art, architecture, and rich sociopolitical history of the region. Mount Vernon was honored by an audience with His Majesty the King of Spain, Felipe VI (pictured top), and an evening hosted by the Honorable Julissa Reynoso, U.S. Ambassador to Spain and Andorra (pictured middle right).

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

SECURING OUR FUTURE

The Connoisseur Society

T

he Connoisseur Society’s 2022 contributions supported Mount Vernon’s clothing and textile conservation and exhibition. Mount Vernon’s incredible textile collection includes the largest extant group of garments and accessories

belonging to George and Martha Washington. This important project included detailed conservation treatments and the creation of custom mounts to better protect these fragile objects for the future and share them with visitors in meaningful ways.

On June 2 and 3, the Society gathered at Mount Vernon for a variety of behindthe-scenes tours to view projects that the group has recently funded, followed by dinner in the historic greenhouse.

Connoisseur Society Members

The Connoisseur Society is a group of George Washington enthusiasts who are dedicated to the acquisition, preservation, conservation, and exhibition of Mount Vernon’s rich and diverse collections.

Mrs. Lucy S. Rhame, Chair, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Irene Roosevelt Aitken, New York, NY Mrs. Cyndy Alaimo, Charlottesville, VA Ann Haunschild Bookout, Houston, TX Mrs. Nadene Bradburn, Mount Vernon, VA Marjorie McHenry Bride, Cambridge, MA Mrs. Ann Coffin, Chestnut Hill, MA Mrs. M.L. Coolidge, Charlottesville, VA Sarah Miller Coulson, Bryn Mawr, PA Mr. James L. Freeman and Mrs. Laura Lofaro-Freeman, Palm Beach, FL Mr. and Mrs. Richard Gilbane, Cape Elizabeth, ME Mrs. Julia C. Gluck, Alexandria, VA Mr. Joseph P. Gromacki, Chicago, IL Mrs. Bessie Hanahan, Charleston, SC Mr. and Mrs. Pierre Dupont Hayward, Wilmington, DE Elizabeth Whitesides Holdsworth, Naples, FL Mrs. Edward C. Johnson 3d, Boston, MA Mr. James D. Marsteller, Atlanta, GA Liz Rollins Mauran, Providence, RI Mr. David Maxfield, Washington, DC ‡ = Deceased

Ms. Pauline C. Metcalf, New York, NY The Honorable Mary V. Mochary, Montclair, NJ Mrs. P. William Moore, Jr., Staunton, VA Mr. and Mrs. Bruce C. Perkins, Chevy Chase, MD Ann Sherrill Pyne, New York, NY Mrs. Joan Rhame, Alexandria, VA Mrs. Barbara G. Robinson, Greenwich, CT Andrea Notman Sahin, Boston, MA Mr. and Mrs. Randall A. Schrimsher, Huntsville, AL Mr. ‡ and Mrs. Stanley DeForest Scott, New York, NY Mrs. Eleanor R. Seaman, Hobe Sound, FL Jean Armfield Sherrill, Winston Salem, NC Ms. Mary McLean A. Sherrill and Mr. Matthew B. Holland, Burlington, NC Mr. Steven Spandle and Mr. Kev Massoyan, Hoboken, NJ Mrs. Suzanne M. Spencer, Pittsford, NY Susan M. and P. Coleman Townsend, Jr., Greenville, DE Ms. Mary Ann Way, Alexandria, VA Mr. David E. Weisman and Ms. Jacqui Michel, Palm Beach, FL Mrs. Wallace S. Wilson, Houston, TX 2022 Annual Report

43

SECURING OUR FUTURE

Spirit of Mount Vernon

T

he 21st Spirit of Mount Vernon was held on October 6. The event attracted record-breaking support for Mount Vernon’s education and preservation mission. More than 850 guests from the government affairs community, Capitol Hill, and the Administration attended the event. Special guest speakers included the First Lady of Virginia, Suzanne Youngkin,

and Secretary of the Navy, Carlos Del Toro. The evening included a sunset reception, a performance by the Marine Drum & Bugle Corps, fireworks, dinner, and a live auction. The popularity of this event continues to grow each year, solidifying the evening as one of the most sought-after events on the government affairs social calendar.

Co-Chairs: Michael Johnson President & CEO National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association Ed Gillespie Senior Executive Vice President, External & Legislative Affairs AT&T Scott Melville President & CEO Consumer Healthcare Products Association Jeff Shockey Senior Vice President Global, Government Relations Raytheon Technologies

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Presenting Sponsor

Co-Sponsor

Ford Motor Company

American Bureau of Shipping American Council of Engineering Companies Anonymous Ariel Corporation Associated Equipment Distributors Associated General Contractors Cressy Family Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Growth Energy Healthcare Distribution Alliance The Heritage Foundation Holland & Knight Horizon Government Affairs Lockheed Martin The Lukens Company Main Street Media Mars, Inc. National Confectioners Association Northrop Grumman PNC Financial Services Group Raytheon Technologies S-3 Group Subject Matter U.S. Chamber of Commerce US Pharmacopeia

Platinum Sponsor AT&T Boeing CTIA Fox Corporation Intuit National Association of Realtors Virginia Distillery Company

Gold Sponsor Akin Gump Hauer Strauss & Feld LLP American Council of Life Insurers American Petroleum Institute Breakthru Beverage Burke & Herbert Bank ConocoPhillips Consumer Healthcare Products Association Corn Refiners Association International Dairy Foods Association National Association of Chain Drug Stores National Association of Counties National Retail Federation National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association

Double Patron Sponsor American International Automobile Dealers Association Cigna Health Care Service Corporation Pharmaceutical Care Management Association

Patron Sponsor Airports Council International AmerisourceBergen Amway APCO Worldwide Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International Mary Lang Bishop and C. Morton Bishop III Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck Burger Specialty Foods Campari Group Edison Electric Institute Finseca Household & Commercial Products Association Invariant JPMorgan Chase

K&L Gates Leading Authorities Locust Street Group McGuireWoods Consulting The Moran Family National Association of Manufacturers National Association of Professional Employer Organizations National Grocers Association National Independent Automobile Dealer Association National Restaurant Association Quatt Associates Republic National Distributing Company Samson & Surrey Dan Scandling and Tammy Eddy Spencer Stuart The Sugar Association USTelecom The Vinyl Institute Vulcan Materials Company Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America Wireless Infrastructure Association

Individual Sponsor The Aluminum Association American Society of Association Executives The Assistance Fund Catoctin Creek Distillery/Scott and Becky Harris Energy Equipment & Infrastructure Alliance Equipment Leasing & Finance Association The Federal Group The Fertilizer Institute Goldman Sachs Hilton Kathryn Karbo KDCR Partners Luxco News Media Alliance Perfecta Plus Communications/Danny Diaz Requity Real Estate Group Summit Wealth Management Verizon

2022 Annual Report

45

SECURING OUR FUTURE

Washington Cabinet

T

he Washington Cabinet’s annual gathering took place November 3–4.

The event included a day of exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours followed by cocktails at the Gristmill and dinner at the Distillery. After members

held their annual meeting, they were invited to stay for the George Washington Symposium, which featured maps from Cabinet member Richard Brown’s Revolutionary War Map Collection.

Washington Cabinet Members

Members of the Washington Cabinet serve as ambassadors for Mount Vernon, raising the estate’s profile nationally and advocating for its mission and efforts. Through investments of time, influence, and resources, members of the Washington Cabinet are committed to supporting Mount Vernon’s education and preservation mission.

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

David M. Rubenstein, Chair, Washington, DC Theodore H. Ashford, Rockland, DE Richard Brown and Mary Jo Otsea, New York, NY Mr. and Mrs. Walter W. Buckley III, Wayne, PA Dr. Peter H. Cressy (RADM USN-RET), Falls Church, VA Mr. Remmel Tyndall Dickinson, Little Rock, AR Martha Dippell and Daniel Korengold, Chevy Chase, MD Claire Dwoskin, Arlington, VA Heather Burns Eagon and J. Kenyon Eagon, Portland, OR Jean and Ric Edelman, Great Falls, VA Frank Islam and Debbie Driesman, Potomac, MD Mr. and Mrs. Henry Klehm III, Morristown, NJ Sanda and Jeremiah Lambert, Palm Beach, FL Sid and Ruth Lapidus, Harrison, NY Ruth and Mike Lipper, Summit, NJ Penn Natanson Lupovich, Washington, DC Mr. and Mrs. Frank E. Mars, McLean, VA Jacqueline B. Mars, New York, NY John and Adrienne Mars, Jackson, WY The Honorable Mary Mochary, Montclair, NJ Dr. and Mrs. J. Mario Molina, South Pasadena, CA ‡ = Deceased

Brian Murdock, Vero Beach, FL Mr. and Mrs. C. Ashton Newhall, Lantana, FL George and Carol Overend, Atlanta, GA Dailey and Gordon Pattee, Sagaponack, NY Bruce A. Ragsdale and Richard G. Scobey, Cambridge, United Kingdom

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas D. Rutherfoord, Jr., Washington, DC Jordan D. Schnitzer, Portland, OR Mr. and Mrs. Randall A. Schrimsher, Huntsville, AL Shelby and Andrew Silvernail, Lake Forest, IL David and Ilene Smith, Chevy Chase, MD Harold B. Smith ‡, Chicago, IL Gloria and Juan Ernesto Snead, Dallas, TX Mr. Gray Stevens and Ms. Lori Pheasant, Naples, FL Rob and Jamie Taylor, Park City, UT The Honorable Lee L. Verstandig and Toni G. Verstandig, Washington, DC Kim and Finn Wentworth, Morristown, NJ Karen Buchwald Wright, Mount Vernon, OH Suzanne and Glenn Youngkin, Great Falls, VA

2022 Annual Report

47

MOUNT VERNON AT A GLANCE

Year in Numbers

16,155

Number of archaeological artifacts cataloged

200

Number of 2x2 square foot test units excavated in archaeological survey of East Lawn

Social Engagement Facebook

5,683,507

Instagram

470,787

Twitter

97,401

YouTube Views 2,885,600

Total Visitation: 830,000

270,000 Student Visitors | 61,509 Youth Tickets Sold | Specialty Tours: 35,797 Tickets Sold

Online Game Plays

241,117 Users

Gristmill & Distillery Tours: 7,595 Weekend Whiskey Tastings:

953 Participants

483

Number of objects installed in Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon

1 48

George Washington suit featured in Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute exhibition, In America: An Anthology of Fashion

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Multimedia Resources 53 NEW Posted Online

Financial Highlights

G

eorge Washington valued fiscal responsibility in all his business ventures. The MVLA carries on this timeless tradition of responsible spending and engages in robust fundraising.

We are proud to have spent 84 cents of every dollar received directly on programs connected to

our mission, including historic preservation and collections initiatives, educational outreach efforts, and enhancements to the guest experience.

During the year, we continued to experience a significant reduction in operating revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and high inflation created a challenging business environment. Despite these challenges, we allocated just 9% of the funds we raised to inspire generous citizens to support our mission.

Thanks to our conservative financial management, our administrative costs accounted for only 7% of our total expenditures. Our 2022 audited financial statements are available at mountvernon.org/about or by request from our Finance Department.

Revenue

Expenses Other

Fundraising

Endowment Support Unrestricted Contributions

Management & General

Product & Food Sales

Education

Admissions

Restricted Contributions

Operating Revenue:

Operating Expenses:

Unrestricted Contributions $ Restricted Contributions Admissions Product & Food Sales Endowment Support Other Operating Revenue

Preservation & Collections

15,201,000 15,630,000 14,592,000 15,709,000 6,838,000 1,473,000

$ 69,443,000

Program Services: Education $ 31,571,000 Preservation & Collections 17,493,000 Program Services total 49,064,000 Support Services: Management & General 4,295,000 Fundraising 4,946,000 Support Services total 9,241,000 Operating Expenses

$ 58,305,000 2022 Annual Report

49

Wine funnel, from Eleanor Calvert and John Parke Custis

Agate buttons, from black velvet coat worn by

wedding silver, made by Walter Brind, London, 1774–1775.

George Washington, made in England, c. 1795

Gift of the Rev. Canon Dr. Betsee Parker, Baroness of Lochiel

Acquired through the generosity of Walter E. and Sylvia H. Button

ACQUISITIONS

Fine and Decorative Arts Collection Tablespoon, from Eleanor Calvert and

Duvivier, Monnaie de Paris, 1789,

Pair of dice with Stamp Act stamp, 1765

John Parke Custis wedding silver, made

with original case, and two Louis

Gift of Jon Kukla

by Thomas Tookey, London, 1774–1775.

XVI 2-sols coins, engraved by Pierre-

Gift of the Rev. Canon Dr. Betsee Parker,

Simon Benjamin Duvivier, made by the

Washington Family, reverse painting on

Baroness of Lochiel

Monnaie de Paris, 1792

glass, made in the German states, c. 1840

Gift of Felipe Propper de Callejon

Gift of Liz Rollins Mauran, Vice Regent

Saucer from Martha Washington’s

for Rhode Island, in honor of Alexandra

States service, made in China, 1795

George Washington, Benjamin Franklin,

Gift of Jess and Grace Pavey Fund,

and John Adams transfer-printed

and the E. Rhodes and Leona B.

creamware punch bowl, possibly made

Berlinwork pattern for Lansdowne

Carpenter Foundation

in Staffordshire or Liverpool, England,

portrait of George Washington, c. 1845

1798–1810

Acquired through the generosity of Lora

Gift of Jess and Grace Pavey Fund

Hamlen Jenkins

in the deer and pine trees pattern,

George Washington Apotheosis

Mount Vernon commemorative

similar to examples owned by George

transfer-printed creamware jug,

silver coffeepot, made in the United

and Martha Washington, 1760–1775

possibly made by Herculaneum Pottery,

States, c. 1860

Purchased by the William and Lisa

Liverpool, 1805–1806

Gift of Clare Cooley Edwards, Vice

Moore Acquisition Endowment Fund

Purchased by the A. Alfred Taubman

Regent Emerita for Connecticut

Blue and white Chinese export porcelain

Rollins Upton

tureen, stand, and cover, and two platters

Acquisition Endowment Fund Bronze Marquis de Lafayette medal,

Table, made from cherry tree cut near

engraved by Pierre-Simon Benjamin

George Washington’s tomb, April 1899 Gift of Sophy Tayloe Doub Burnham

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The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Cobalt blue wash hand glass, owned by George and Martha Washington, probably made in England, 1770–1800 Gift of Lawrence Tayloe Lewis III

Corona Cash, linocut print by Karen Whitman, 2020 Gift of Liz Rollins Mauran, Vice Regent for Rhode Island Mount Vernon commemorative plate,

Colonel Harrison Howell Dodge, painting by Eben Farrington Comins, 1933 Gift of Kathryn Anna Heiberg, Walter Dodge Heiberg, Elvin Ragnvald Heiberg IV, Kay Louise Heiberg-Bransford, descendants of Colonel Harrison Howell Dodge

made by Buffalo Pottery, 1908 Gift of Betty Powell Ambrose Silverplate bread basket, mid-20th century, presented by the MVLA to Walter Densmore, Assistant to the Resident Director from 1934–1976 Gift of Dr. David D. Nelson of Tuscaloosa, Alabama Handmade reproductions of Martha Washington’s needlework, 2022: “Martha’s Pride,” quilt top Gift of the maker, Cecilia Ann Marzulli Needlepoint for Martha Washington shell cushion Gift of the maker, Sheryl De Jong Needlepoint for Martha Washington shell cushion Gift of the maker, Ann Cady Scott,

Watercolor and embroidered plan of the City of Washington with a portrait of George Washington, made by Grace Turner Cleaver Clark, Alexandria, Virginia, c. 1802 Acquired through the generosity of the Stella Boyle Smith Trust, Michael Mayton, Trustee

Vice Regent for Missouri 2022 Annual Report

51

Selected Loans to the MVLA

The MVLA is grateful to the many individuals and institutions that have placed on loan to Mount Vernon original art, artifacts, books, documents, and period objects.

We would like to acknowledge in particular the following items: For display in the exhibition, Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon

Iron fireback, likely made at Accokeek

Eleanor Calvert and John Parke Custis

Courtesy of the Kate Waller Barrett

wedding silver, with Custis crest, London, 1774–1775: Pair of silver goblets engraved with the Custis crest, made by John Carter Courtesy of Susan and Paul Vogel Silver chamberstick, made

by John Carter Courtesy of an anonymous lender Engraving plate for George Washington’s bookplate, made by Stephen Vallicure, London, 1771 Courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum

Furnace for Augustine and Mary Ball Washington at Mount Vernon, 1734 Chapter, DAR Museum

For display in the George

Society of the Cincinnati Eagle insignia,

Washington Exhibition

made by Nicolas Jean Francastel and

Manuscript, Last Will and Testament of

Claude Jean Autran Duval, Paris, France, 1784 Courtesy of the Society of the Cincinnati

George Washington, July 9, 1799, p. 17 Courtesy of Fairfax County Circuit Court For display in the Mansion

George Washington, Manuscript Survey of Fairfax’s land jutting into Mount Vernon estate, February 25, 1771 Manuscript, George Washington purchasing land bordering Mount

Pair of Chinese export porcelain jars, 1780–1790 Courtesy of the Museums at Washington & Lee University, Lexington, Virginia

of Art

Vernon from John and Catharine West,

Pair of silver candlesticks, made by

George Washington purchasing land

Eleanor (Nelly) Parke Custis Lewis,

bordering Mount Vernon from Charles

painting by Ernst Georg Fischer, c. 1850

West, October 28, 1772

Courtesy of a Custis descendant

John Winter & Co., Sheffield, England, 1774–1775 Portrait of George Washington, painting by Gilbert Stuart, 1796–1803 Wine bottle, excavated from Custis Square, Williamsburg, Virginia, 1715–1749 Courtesy of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation

September 22, 1772

Additional loans to the Association

Manuscript, land grant restoring portion of original Mount Vernon tract to George Washington, February 21, 1785 An Eulogy on the Life of General George Washington, pamphlet by Thomas Paine, 1800 Courtesy of the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History 2022 Annual Report

53

Manuscript: George Washington’s copy of Sampson Darrell’s deed to land along Dogue Creek, November 26, 1717.

Washington purchased 500 acres of land from Darrell in 1757, including the 167 acres included in this deed.

Purchased by the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books and Manuscripts Endowment

ACQUISITIONS

Library Collection Highlights Manuscript: Agreement between George Washington and

Purchased with funds from the H.W. Wilson Foundation

John Posey, October 14, 1770. Posey sells his claim to 3,000

and the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books and

acres of western land to Washington. Witnessed by minor

Manuscripts Endowment.

children John “Jacky” Parke Custis, Martha “Patsy” Parke Custis, and Amelia Posey.

Manuscript: Letter, Lettice Corbin to George Washington,

Purchased by the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books and

March 31, 1766, and a receipt. Corbin approves Washington’s

Manuscripts Endowment.

request to extend for a second year his lease of the labor of an enslaved bricklayer named George.

Book: George Washington’s copy of Essays on Field Artillery

Purchased by the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books

Since the Use of Gunpowder in War by John Anderson (1788),

and Manuscripts Endowment.

wherein the author describes a method for reducing recoil from cannon fire.

54

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Photograph: “The Tomb of Washington as it Appeared on May 14th, 1859,” by Israel & Riddle. A rare salt print given as a gift to customers of H. E. Hoyt & Co.’s bookstore in Baltimore.

Purchased by the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books and Manuscripts Endowment

Manuscript: George Washington survey for Benjamin

Manuscript: Bushrod Washington to Robert Morris,

Rutherford, April 9, 1751. Survey of land along Bullskin Run

September 24, 1814. Washington informs the New Jersey

in present-day Jefferson County, West Virginia, likely

federal judge that he may be unable to attend court as British

included among lands later purchased by Washington.

troops remain in the vicinity of Washington, D.C.

Gift of Katharine Sigety.

Purchased by the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books and Manuscripts Endowment.

Manuscript: George Washington to Jonathan Boucher, August 15, 1798. Washington thanks the Anglican minister, loyalist, and former tutor to John Parke Custis for sending a book and declares that “Peace, with all the world is my sincere wish.”

Purchased with funds provided by the Stella Boyle Smith Trust.

2022 Annual Report

55

Manuscript: Survey by Robert Brooke of land between Dogue Creek and Little Hunting Creek, 1741. This survey includes the first known representations of buildings on the future Mount Vernon estate.

Purchased by the David M. Rubenstein Rare Books and Manuscripts Endowment

Manuscript: Arete Johnson to unknown, August 9, 1854. In this earliest known fundraising appeal by a member of the MVLA, the Lady Manager urges her correspondent to induce her neighbors “to give something towards this good cause.”

Gift of Carl M. Volz 56

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association Program Committees EXECUTIVE Officers Margaret Nichols, Regent (2021–2024) Andrea Sahin, Secretary (2021–2024) Anne Petri, Treasurer (2021–2024) Members-at-Large Catherine Waddell (2021–2023) Susan Townsend (2022–2024) GOVERNANCE Lucia Henderson, Chair Mary Bishop Maribeth Borthwick Sarah Coulson Catherine Mayton Andrea Sahin Catherine Waddell

72

AUDIT Cammie Mayer, Chair Elizabeth Hale Karen Kirby Liz Mauran Hilary West COLLECTIONS Ann Bookout, Chair Sarah Coulson Adrian Jay Helen Laughery Catherine Mayton Ann Pyne DEVELOPMENT Karen Kirby, Chair Mary Bishop Helen Laughery Catherine Mayton Ann Scott Susan Townsend

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

EDUCATION Catherine Waddell, Chair Helen Laughery Liz Mauran Anne Petri Ann Pyne Ann Scott Hilary West FINANCE Ann Bookout, Chair Maribeth Borthwick Sarah Coulson Lucia Henderson Anne Petri Ann Scott HORTICULTURE, LIVESTOCK, & FORESTRY Catherine Mayton, Chair Mary Bishop Elizabeth Hale Virginia Lane Cammie Mayer Anne Petri Susan Townsend Hilary West

INVESTMENT Maribeth Borthwick, Chair Adrian Jay Helen Laughery Catherine Mayton Susan Townsend Catherine Waddell LIBRARY & LEADERSHIP Sarah Coulson, Chair Ann Bookout Maribeth Borthwick Karen Kirby Anne Petri Catherine Waddell Hilary West MEDIA & COMMUNICATIONS Liz Mauran, Chair Elizabeth Hale Lucia Henderson Adrian Jay Laura Rutherford

PRESERVATION Susan Townsend, Chair Elizabeth Hale Lucia Henderson Karen Kirby Cammie Mayer Liz Mauran Andrea Sahin VIEWSHED Virginia Lane, Chair Adrian Jay Liz Mauran Laura Rutherford Hilary West

Ad Hoc Committees & Task Forces

Record of the Members of the MVLA

CAMPAIGN FOR MOUNT VERNON Andrea Sahin, Co-Chair Catherine Waddell, Co-Chair Karen Kirby, Development Liaison

Regents Miss Ann Pamela Cunningham, 1853–1874; resigned 1874; died May 1, 1875 Mrs. J. Scott Laughton, (née Lily Macalester, later Madame Berghmans), 1874; died 1891 Mrs. Howard Townsend, 1891–1909; died 1912 Miss Harriet Clayton Comegys, 1909; died 1927 Mrs. Alice Haliburton Richards, 1927; died 1936 Mrs. Horace Mann Towner, 1937; died 1942 Mrs. Lucien M. Hanks, 1943–1948; died 1959 Mrs. Albert Harkness, (formerly Mrs. Thomas Ives Hare Powel), 1948–1958; died 1974 Mrs. Francis F. Beirne, 1958–1968; died 1969 Mrs. Thomas Turner Cooke, 1968–1976; died 1993 Mrs. John H. Guy, Jr., 1976–1982; died 2016 Mrs. Thomas Dunaway Anderson, 1982–1986; died 2013 Mrs. Robert Channing Seamans, Jr., 1986–1990; died 2010 Mrs. Clarence Morton Bishop, Jr., 1990–1993; died 2007 Mrs. H. Taylor Morrissette, 1993–1996 Mrs. Robert E. Lee IV, 1996–1999; died 2019 Mrs. James M. Walton, 1999–2004 Mrs. Stanley N. Gaines, 2004–2007 Mrs. Shepard B. Ansley, 2007–2010; died 2016

LIBRARY CELEBRATION Andrea Sahin, Co-Chair Hilary West, Co-Chair PAVILION TASK FORCE Ann Scott, Chair Lucia Henderson Helen Laughery Cammie Mayer Susan Townsend QUARTERS TASK FORCE Sarah Coulson, Chair Maribeth Borthwick Ann Pyne Susan Townsend

Ann Haunschild Bookout, 2010–2013 Barbara Bourgeois Lucas, 2013–2016 Sarah Miller Coulson, 2016-2021 Margaret Hartman Nichols, 2021 Vice Regents

Mrs. Henry Hollenberg (formerly Mrs. John McCaughey Harrison), 1970; resigned 1982; Associate Vice Regent 1982; died 2011 Mrs. Sam Buchanan, 1995; resigned 2006; Vice Regent Emerita 2007 Catherine Hamilton Mayton, 2012

ALABAMA Madame Henry S. LeVert, 1858; died 1877 Mrs. Hilary Herbert, 1882; died 1884 Miss Leila Herbert, 1894; died 1897 Mrs. Robert D. Johnston, 1900; died 1934 Mrs. Morris Williams Bush, 1946; resigned 1959; died 1971 Mrs. Preston H. Haskell, Jr., 1963; died 1971 Mrs. H. Taylor Morrissette, 1983; resigned 2001; Regent 1993–1996; Vice Regent Emerita 2002 Laura Peebles Rutherford, 2005

CALIFORNIA Mrs. William Blanding, 1859; resigned 1884; died 1885 Mrs. George Hearst, 1889; resigned 1918; died 1919 Mrs. Charles S. Wheeler, 1920; resigned 1940; died 1952 Mrs. Lockwood de Forest, 1956; died 1984 Mrs. Richard W. Call, 1984; resigned 2001; Vice Regent Emerita 2002 Maribeth Armstrong Borthwick, 2002

ARIZONA Mrs. Arthur Newton Pack, 1962; resigned 1984; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 2000

COLORADO Mrs. Nathaniel P. Hill, 1889; died 1908 Mrs. Horton Pope, 1919; resigned 1947; died 1950 Mrs. David A. Pfaelzer, 1970; resigned 1986; Vice Regent Emerita 1986; died 2019 Mrs. Eileen M. Olander, formerly Vice Regent for Kansas, 1986; resigned 1995; Vice Regent Emerita 1995; died 2015 Mrs. Andrew W. Armour IV, 1996; resigned 2000 Judith Wilson Grant, 2017; died 2020 Sarah Seaman Alijani, 2022

ARKANSAS Mrs. Robert Ward Johnson, 1859; died 1862 Mrs. Charles Gordon Scott, 1872; resigned 1878; died 1910 Mrs. Celsus Price Perrie, 1919; resigned 1922; died 1938 Mrs. J. Fairfax Loughborough, 1932; died 1962

2022 Annual Report

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CONNECTICUT Mrs. Samuel G. Goodrich, 1858; resigned 1864; died 1868 Mrs. Susan E. Johnson Hudson, 1870; died 1913 Miss Annie Burr Jennings, 1915; died 1939 Mrs. Wilmarth S. Lewis, 1942; died 1959 Mrs. Clifton McCausland Bockstoce, 1965; resigned 1990; Vice Regent Emerita 1990; died 1995 Clare N. Cooley Edwards, 1992; resigned 2017; Vice Regent Emerita 2018 DELAWARE Mrs. Joseph P. Comegys, 1858; died 1888 Miss Harriet Clayton Comegys, 1888; resigned 1927; Regent 1909–1927; died 1927 Mrs. Antoine Lentilhon Foster, 1911; died 1934 Mrs. Thomas F. Bayard, 1937; resigned 1958; died 1975 Mrs. C. Lalor Burdick, 1961; resigned 1983; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 2007 Miss Elizabeth N. du Pont, 1985; resigned 1986; died 1989 Mrs. Nelson T. Shields III, 1987; resigned 2001; Vice Regent Emerita 2002 Mrs. Calhoun W. Wick, 2001; resigned 2004 Susan Marshall Townsend, 2005 DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Mrs. George W. Riggs, Acting Vice Regent 1858; appointed 1867; resigned 1868; died 1871 Mrs. William H. Emory, 1870; resigned 1871; died 1900 Mrs. Joseph K. Barnes, 1873; died 1912 Miss Jane A. Riggs, 1912; died 1930 Miss Helen Louise Sargent, 1931; died 1948 Miss Constance Ellen Tyler, 1952; died 1963 Mrs. Randall H. Hagner, Jr., 1965; resigned 1991; died 2007 Mrs. Richard H. Streeter, 1992; resigned 2000; Associate Vice Regent 2000 Lucia Bosqui Henderson, 1999; resigned 2014 to become Vice Regent for Virginia Mrs. Togo D. West, Jr., 2014; resigned 2017; Vice Regent Emerita 2018 Hilary Carter West, 2020 FLORIDA Madame Achille Murat, 1858; died 1867 Mrs. David Levy Yulee, 1868; died 1884 Mrs. James M. Baker, 1888; died 1901 Mrs. Thomas Palmer Denham, 1913; resigned 1948; died 1950 Mrs. LeRoy Collins, 1961; resigned 1982; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 2009 Mrs. John K. Aurell, 1985; resigned 2000; Vice Regent Emerita 2000 Mrs. Stanley N. Gaines, 2000; resigned 2013; Regent 2004–2007; Vice Regent Emerita 2014 Claudia Puig Amundsen, 2014; resigned 2019; Vice Regent Emerita 2019 74

GEORGIA Mrs. William J. Eve, 1858; died 1889 Mrs. Joseph John Wilder, 1891; died 1914 Mrs. Jefferson Randolph Anderson, 1919; resigned 1949; died 1956 Mrs. Barnwell Cubbedge, 1958; resigned 1969; died 1985 Mrs. Frank Anderson Chisholm, 1971; resigned 1986; Vice Regent Emerita 1986; died 2015 Boyce Lineberger Ansley, 1987; Regent 2007–2010; died 2016 Elizabeth Medlin Hale, 2018

KENTUCKY Mrs. Alexander Jeffrey, 1858; resigned 1885; died 1894 Mrs. George W. Woodward, 1885; resigned 1889, re-appointed 1891; died 1897 Mrs. William F. Barret, 1901; died 1920 Miss Mary Mason Scott, 1923; died 1934 Mrs. Mason Barret, 1938; resigned 1953; died 1955 Mrs. Walter N. Haldeman, 1960; resigned 1974; died 1984 Mrs. Phillip B. Newman III, 1985; resigned 2000; Vice Regent Emerita 2000; died 2017

IDAHO Mrs. Richard R. Simplot, 1999; resigned 2010; Vice Regent Emerita 2011

LOUISIANA Mrs. Isaac F. Morse, 1858; resigned 1872; died 1893 Mrs. David Urquhart, 1873; resigned 1876 Mrs. Tobias G. Richardson, 1880; died 1910 Miss Annie Ragan King, 1912; died 1933 Miss Sarah Duncan Butler, 1936; resigned 1960; died 1966 Mrs. Frank G. Strachan, 1963; resigned 1987; Vice Regent Emerita 1987; died 2000 Mrs. Donald J. Nalty, 1990; resigned 1999; Vice Regent Emerita 1999 Cameron Kock Mayer, 2000

ILLINOIS Mrs. William Barry, 1859; died 1883 Mrs. Levi Z. Leiter, 1885; died 1913 Mrs. George A. Carpenter, 1916; resigned 1947; died 1948 Mrs. Henry Porter Isham, 1949; resigned 1972; died 1986 Mrs. Erskine Phelps Wilder, Jr., 1976; resigned 1992; Vice Regent Emerita 1992; died 2005 Mrs. Tyler R. Cain, 1994; resigned 2001; Associate Vice Regent 2001; died 2013 Catherine Marlette Waddell, 2013 INDIANA Mrs. Graham Newell Fitch, 1859; died 1880 Mrs. Charles Denby, 1901; died 1906 Mrs. Benjamin D. Walcott, 1914; resigned 1932; died 1933 Mrs. Benjamin D. Hitz, 1936; resigned 1978; Honorary Vice Regent 1978; died 1979 Mrs. James T. Neal, 1982; resigned 1994; Vice Regent Emerita, 1994 Mrs. Alpha Coles Blackburn, 2008; resigned 2014; Vice Regent Emerita 2014 IOWA Mrs. VerPlanck Van Antwerp, 1858; died 1870 Mrs. John F. Dillon, 1872; resigned 1873; died 1898 Mrs. Horace Mann Towner, 1913; Regent 1937– 1942; died 1942 Mrs. Charles Leslie Brockett (formerly Mrs. Douglas Nelson Gibson), 1955; resigned 1983; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 2000 KANSAS Mrs. Milan Lester Ward, 1876; died 1910 Mrs. John V. Abrahams, 1916; resigned 1921 Mrs. John Reynolds Shelton, 1923; resigned 1930; died 1936 Mrs. Earl K. Lord, 1930; died 1956 Mrs. Eileen M. Olander, 1970; resigned 1986 to become Vice Regent for Colorado; resigned 1995; Vice Regent Emerita 1995; died 2015 Mrs. J. Craig McIlvain, 1993; resigned 2003; Associate Vice Regent, 2003

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

MAINE Mrs. Josiah S. Little, 1858; resigned 1866; died 1893 Mrs. Lorenzo M. Sweat, 1866; died 1908 Mrs. Alice Haliburton Richards, 1911; Regent 1927; died 1936 Mrs. Harold Lee Berry, 1930; resigned 1968; died 1971 Mrs. William L. Vaughan, 1971; resigned 1987; Vice Regent Emerita 1987; died 2003 Mrs. Everett B. Carson, 1989; resigned 1992 Margaret Hartman Nichols, 2012; Regent 2021– MARYLAND Miss Emily L. Harper, 1866; died 1892 Mrs. George R. Goldsborough, 1893; resigned 1904; died 1906 Mrs. Henry W. Rogers, 1905; died 1931 Mrs. DeCourcy W. Thom, 1935; resigned 1946; died 1963 Mrs. Francis F. Beirne, 1948; Regent 1958–1968; died 1969 Mrs. Robert E. Lee IV (formerly Mrs. Carew C. Rice), 1972; resigned 2006; Regent 1996–1999; Vice Regent Emerita 2007; died 2019 Barbara Bourgeois Lucas, 2008, Regent 2013–2016; resigned 2017; Vice Regent Emerita 2018 MASSACHUSETTS Mrs. Horatio Greenough, 1858; resigned 1865; died 1891 Miss Alice M. Longfellow, 1879; died 1928 Mrs. Nathaniel Thayer, 1930; died 1934 Mrs. John Templeman Coolidge, 1940; resigned 1948; died 1964 Mrs. Samuel Cabot, 1949; died 1969

Mrs. Robert Channing Seamans, Jr., 1975; Regent 1986–1990; resigned 1993; Vice Regent Emerita 1993; died 2010 Ms. Elizabeth M. Chapin, 1994; resigned 2008; Vice Regent Emerita 2008 Andrea Notman Sahin, 2011 MICHIGAN Mrs. Elon Farnsworth 1858; resigned 1877; died 1879 Mrs. Joshua Henry Rathbone, 1885; resigned 1918; died 1923 Mrs. Edward H. Parker, 1923; died 1924 Mrs. Benjamin S. Warren, 1925; resigned 1959; died 1968 Mrs. Alexander L. Wiener, 1964; resigned 1989; Vice Regent Emerita 1989; died 1995 Mrs. Lloyd A. Semple, 1990; resigned 2006; Vice Regent Emerita 2007 MINNESOTA Mrs. Henry H. Sibley, 1859; died 1869 Mrs. Charles Eugene Flandrau, 1889; died 1911 Mrs. Charles Eliot Furness, 1914; died 1935 Miss Anna E. Ramsey Furness, 1940; died 1964 Mrs. David Bradford, 1982; resigned 1992; Associate Vice Regent 1994; died 2004 Mrs. J. Hap Fauth, 1995; resigned 2007; Vice Regent Emerita 2008 MISSISSIPPI Mrs. William McWillie, 1858; died 1873 Mrs. William Balfour, 1873; resigned 1885; died 1887 Mrs. Kate Walthall Freeman, 1885; resigned 1888; died 1919 Mrs. Benjamin Sherrod Ricks, 1907; resigned 1914; died 1918 Miss Mary Govan Billups, 1916; resigned 1963; died 1971 Mrs. Stewart J. Gilchrist, 1974; resigned 1990; Vice Regent Emerita 1990 Mrs. Stewart Gammill III, 1991; resigned 2011; Vice Regent Emerita 2011 Susan Stevens Reeder, 2011; resigned 2022; Vice Regent Emerita 2022 MISSOURI Mrs. Robert R. Walton, 1858; resigned 1859; died 1860 Mrs. Wilson Price Hunt, 1860; died 1878 Mrs. Robert Campbell, 1879; died 1882 Mrs. Benjamin Graham, 1893; died 1915 Mrs. Charles Nagel, 1916; resigned 1943; died 1951 Mrs. Marvin E. Holderness, 1948; resigned 1959 to become Vice Regent for Tennessee; died 1970 Mrs. Robert Neill, Jr., 1964; resigned 1973 Mrs. Tom K. Smith, Jr., 1982; resigned 1997; Vice Regent Emerita 1997 Ann Cady Scott, 2010

NEBRASKA Mrs. Robert H. Clarkson, 1894; resigned 1900; died 1902 Mrs. Charles F. Manderson, 1900; died 1916 Mrs. Alexander C. Troup, 1923; died 1950 NEVADA Mrs. M. E. Hickman, 1866; resigned 1874 Mrs. John P. Jones, 1875; resigned 1876; died 1936 NEW HAMPSHIRE Mrs. Salma Hale, 1858; resigned 1861; died 1865 Mrs. Onslow Stearns, 1866; resigned 1873; died 1895 Mrs. Abby Godwin Winder, 1890; died 1906 Miss Harriet L. Huntress, 1914; died 1922 Mrs. Gordon Woodbury, 1929; resigned 1949; died 1966 Mrs. John Lawrence Sullivan, 1952; resigned 1985; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 1994 NEW JERSEY Miss Phebe A. Ogden, 1858; died 1865 Mrs. Nathaniel Norris Halsted, 1868; died 1891 Mrs. Francis S. Conover, 1893; died 1914 Mrs. Willard Hall Bradford, 1915; resigned 1939; died 1941 Mrs. Thomas Turner Cooke, 1946; resigned 1987; Regent 1968–1976; Vice Regent Emerita 1987; died 1993 Mrs. Stephen K. West, 1989; resigned 2005; Vice Regent Emerita 2006; died 2020 Elizabeth Whitesides Holdsworth, 2006; resigned 2017; Vice Regent Emerita 2018 Karen McCabe Kirby, 2020 NEW YORK Miss Mary M. Hamilton (later Mrs. George Lee Schuyler), 1858; resigned 1866; died 1877 Mrs. James Brooks, 1867; resigned 1876; died 1882 Mrs. Howard Townsend, 1876; Regent 1891–1909; resigned 1909; died 1912 Mrs. Philip Schuyler, 1893; resigned 1894; died 1915 Miss Amy Townsend, 1894; died 1920 Mrs. Henry Gold Danforth, 1922; resigned 1948; died 1961 Ms. Thomas Stilwell Lamont, 1952; died 1972 Mrs. Douglas Williams, 1975; resigned 1994; Vice Regent Emerita 1994; died 2006 Mrs. Randolph H. Guthrie, 1996; resigned 2008; Vice Regent Emerita 2009 Ann Sherrill Pyne, 2019 NORTH CAROLINA Mrs. P. K. Dickinson, 1858; resigned 1859; died 1881 Mrs. William Richmond Walker, 1859; died 1908 Mrs. Alexander Boyd Andrews, 1909; died 1915 Mrs. William Ewen Shipp, 1919; died 1936 Mrs. John Witherspoon Labouisse, 1944; resigned 1978; Honorary Vice Regent 1978; died 1985

Mrs. Thomas B. Battle, 1982; resigned 1999; Vice Regent Emerita 1999; died 2023 Jean Armfield Sherrill, 2002; resigned 2022; Vice Regent Emerita 2022 OHIO Mrs. George H. Pendleton, 1858; resigned 1863; died 1886 Mrs. Emily R. McIlvaine Hewson, 1866; resigned 1873; died 1904 Mrs. Samuel J. Broadwell, 1875; died 1890 Miss Mary Lloyd Pendleton, 1893; resigned 1897; died 1929 Mrs. James E. Campbell, 1897; resigned 1902; died 1913 Mrs. Lewis W. Irwin, 1907; died 1916 Mrs. Charles J. Livingood, 1919; resigned 1935; died 1936 Mrs. Chester C. Bolton, 1938; died 1977 Mrs. Kenyon C. Bolton, 1978; resigned 1989; Honorary Vice Regent 1989; died 2014 Mrs. Charles D. Weller, 1996; resigned 2001; Associate Vice Regent 2001 Melody Sawyer Richardson, 2003; resigned 2017; Vice Regent Emerita 2018 OKLAHOMA Mrs. Russell Story Tarr, 1947; resigned 1974; died 1988 Mrs. William Vilas Hanks, 1978; resigned 1996; Vice Regent Emerita 1996; died 2006 Mary Elizabeth Creekmore Henke, 1999; resigned 2016, Vice Regent Emerita 2017 OREGON Miss Mary F. Failing, 1907; died 1947 Mrs. Clarence M. Bishop, Jr., 1976; Regent 1990–1993; resigned 1996, Vice Regent Emerita 1997; died 2007 Mrs. James F. Crumpacker, 2001; resigned 2014; Vice Regent Emerita 2014 Mary Lang Bishop, 2017 PENNSYLVANIA Mrs. J. Scott Laughton (née Lily Lytle Macalester; later, Madame Berghmans), 1859; Second Regent 1874–1891; died 1891 Mrs. J. Dundas Lippincott, 1893; died 1894 Mrs. Charles Custis Harrison, 1896; died 1922 Mrs. William R. Mercer, Jr., 1924; resigned 1928; died 1960 Mrs. Benjamin Franklin Pepper, 1929; resigned 1948; died 1955 Mrs. Henry Norris Platt, 1948; resigned 1983; died 1984 Mrs. Robert McAdoo (formerly Mrs. F. Woodson Hancock, Jr.), 1985; resigned 1988 Mrs. James M. Walton, 1991; Regent 1999–2004; resigned 2007; Vice Regent Emerita 2008 Sarah Miller Coulson, 2011; Regent 2016–2021

RHODE ISLAND Mrs. George I. Chace, 1858; died 1893 Mrs. William Ames, 1894; died 1904 Mrs. John Carter Brown, 1907; resigned 1935; Honorary Vice Regent 1935; died 1936 Mrs. Albert Harkness (formerly Mrs. Thomas Ives Hare Powel), 1936; Regent 1948–1958; resigned 1971; died 1974 Mrs. Richard Alexander, 1978; resigned 1996; Vice Regent Emerita 1996; died 2019 Liz Rollins Mauran, 2009 SOUTH CAROLINA Miss Ann Pamela Cunningham, Regent 1853–1874; resigned 1874; died 1875 Mrs. James Chesnut, Sr., 1860; died 1864 Mrs. Francis Wilkinson Pickens, 1866; died 1899 Mrs. John Julius Pringle, 1901; died 1921 Miss Virginia Leigh Porcher, 1924; died 1940 Mrs. Benjamin Allston Moore, 1948; resigned 1967; died 1987 Mrs. Daniel W. Hollis, 1970; resigned 1985; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 2015 Mrs. Benjamin A. Hagood, 1987; resigned 2002; Vice Regent Emerita 2003 Virginia Dawson Lane, 2003 TENNESSEE Mrs. Francis B. Fogg, 1858; died 1872 Mrs. Aaron V. Brown, 1874; died 1889 Mrs. Thomas Shapard Webb (née Mary Polk Yeatman), 1893; died 1917 Mrs. Horace Van Deventer, 1920; died 1956 Mrs. Marvin E. Holderness, former Vice Regent for Missouri, 1959; died 1970 Mrs. Alex Pirtle, Jr, 1980; resigned 2000; Vice Regent Emerita 2000; died 2012 Mrs. David Bowlin, 2003; resigned 2003 Mrs. William Lipscomb Davis, Jr., 2006; resigned 2012; Vice Regent Emerita 2013 Adrian MacLean Jay, 2022 TEXAS Miss Ella Hutchins, 1866; resigned 1872; died 1913 Miss Mary E. Maverick, 1873; resigned 1873; died 1891 Mrs. Thomas S. Maxey, 1896; Honorary Vice Regent 1937; died 1938 Mrs. John Mirza Bennett, 1940; died 1963 Mrs. Thomas Dunaway Anderson, 1967; Regent 1982–1986; resigned 1991; Vice Regent Emerita 1991; died 2013 Mrs. W. Temple Webber, Jr., 1992; resigned 2001; Associate Vice Regent 2001 Ann Haunschild Bookout, 2002; Regent 2010–2013 VERMONT Mrs. Hampden Cutts, 1859; resigned 1878; died 1879 Mrs. J. Gregory Smith, 1878; resigned 1884; died 1905

Mrs. Cornelius Low King, 1885; died 1896 Miss Mary Evarts, 1911; resigned 1923; reappointed 1924; died 1928 Mrs. Horace Brown, 1930; resigned 1940; died 1943 Mrs. James Shepard Dennis, 1946; died 1946 Mrs. A. John Holden, Jr., 1961; resigned 1978; Associate Vice Regent 1993; died 2004 Mrs. Arthur J. Dewey, Jr., 1984; resigned 1993; Associate Vice Regent 1994; died 2016 Mrs. Frederick West, 1998; resigned 2000 VIRGINIA Mrs. William F. Ritchie, 1858; resigned 1866; died 1870 Mrs. Thomson Francis Mason, 1872; died 1873 Mrs. Charles B. Ball, 1874; died 1918 Mrs. William R. Cox, 1921; died 1925 Mrs. Fairfax Harrison, 1927; died 1943 Mrs. Edward Clifford Anderson, 1947; resigned 1960; died 1994 Mrs. John H. Guy, Jr., 1963; Regent 1976; resigned 1995; Vice Regent Emerita 1995; died 2016 Mrs. P. William Moore, Jr., 1996; resigned 2014; Vice Regent Emerita 2014 Lucia Bosqui Henderson, formerly Vice Regent for the District of Columbia, 2014 WASHINGTON Mrs. John Leary, 1907; died 1935 Mrs. Stanley D. Lyle, 1944; died 1955 Margaret Appleton Allison, 1985; resigned 2019; Vice Regent Emerita 2019 WEST VIRGINIA Mrs. Lewis William Washington, 1870; died 1898 Mrs. Eugene Van Rensselaer, 1900; died 1923 Miss Constance Lee Peterkin, 1924; resigned 1946; died 1948 Mrs. Augustine Jaquelin Todd, 1955; resigned 1985; Vice Regent Emerita 1985; died 1987 Mrs. Robert W. Lawson III, 1987; resigned 2009; Vice Regent Emerita 2009 WISCONSIN Mrs. Alexander Mitchell, 1858; died 1902 Mrs. Lucien M. Hanks, 1914; Regent 1943; resigned 1956; died 1959 Mrs. John Cunningham Lobb, 1960; resigned 1962; died 2005 Mrs. Douglas Seaman, 1989; resigned 2001; Vice Regent Emerita 2001 Anne Neal Petri, 2008 WYOMING Mrs. Thomas S. Taliaferro, Jr., 1936; resigned 1950; died 1953 Mrs. John F. Mars, 2003; resigned 2012; Vice Regent Emerita 2013 Helen Herboth Laughery, 2013

2022 Annual Report

75

Farewell Address

To The Council of the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association of June, 1874: LADIES: It was my intention as well as my duty to have met you at this time, and conformed in person to the legal requisition accompanying a resignation so important as mine, but Providence does not permit.

I am at present not only unequal to such a journey, but the serious state of my health requires me, instead of turning my face towards the “spot” for which, since 1853, I have lived, labored and almost died, to seek the best medical skill, with the hope of prolonging, if possible, a life yet needed to finish what I began so many long years ago. One more duty is before me—one I regard as important—though circumstances have combined to make it now a very sad one.

It would have been a pleasure to have met, once more, those who have labored with me in our vineyard from the “early hour,” though now their numbers are so few; those who appreciated my work; its motives, its sacrifices; whether they were of the “early” or “eleventh” hour sister laborers; and to have taken a kindly farewell of all whose hearts have been, like my own, single unto their patriotic work—but it is not to be.

I will not yet, however, utterly resign the hope that I may be permitted to reappear among you some day, with my last self-imposed task performed; ready to say, “Now let thy servant depart in peace.”

But in parting, I feel it due to you as to me; to the responsibilities I solemnly assumed, which were so important in their results; to those you have taken upon yourselves, to say a few words as to those responsibilities, or duties laid down in the beginning of our work—not to be lightly regarded, for they were pledges to future generations as well as to ours.

The minds and hearts which conceived the rescue of the Home of Washington; of the completion of a worthy “tribute” to public integrity, private virtue; an expression of the gratitude due and felt by a country destined to act such an important part in the drama of the world; conceived it with all the reverence felt in older regions for the resting places of their honored dead; where only pious hands are permitted to be in “charge,” so as to have them carried down to admiring ages in the same condition as when left.

Such was the pledge made to the American heart when an appeal was made to it to save the Home and Tomb of Washington, of the Father of his Country, from all changes, whether by law or desecration. Such, to the last owner of Mt. Vernon, ere he was willing to permit it to pass from his hands. Such to the Legislature of his mother State, ere she gave us legal rights over it. Such we are bound to keep. Our honor is concerned, as well as our intelligence and legal obligations. The mansion, and the grounds around it, should be religiously guarded from changes—should be kept as Washington left them.

Ladies, the Home of Washington is in your charge. See to it that you keep it the Home of Washington! Let no irreverent hand change it; no vandal hands desecrate with the fingers of—progress! Those who go to the Home in which he lived and died, wish to see in what he lived and died! Let one spot in this grand country of ours be saved from “change!” Upon you rests this duty.

When the Centennial comes, bringing with it its thousands from the ends of the earth, to whom the Home of Washington will be the place of places in our country, let them see that, though we slay our forests, remove our dead, pull down our churches, remove from home to home till the “hearthstone” seems to have no resting place in America; let them see that we do know how to care for the Home of our Hero! Farewell!

Ladies, I return to your hands the office held—so long under another name—since December 2d, 1853.

Respectfully,

Ann Pamela Cunningham 76

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association

Charity Navigator evaluates a nonprofit organization’s financial health, including measures of stability, efficiency, and sustainability. We also track accountability and transparency policies to ensure the good governance and integrity of the organization. The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association has been awarded a four-star rating, the organization's highest recognition.