Jim visited this esteemed library to research his new recording, "George Washington: First in the Hearts of his Countrymen."
Jim meets with Mount Vernon Historian, Mary Thompson, at the Fred W. Smith Library to learn about George and Martha Washington and their life at Mount Vernon and beyond.
Jim and Randy visit Mount Vernon on a summer day in August, 2014.
George and Martha Washington's beautiful residence, Mount Vernon.
Mount Vernon exemplifies beautiful early American architecture.
Jim takes notes on an excellent guided tour of the grounds with an expert from the Mount Vernon Interpretation Center.
George Washington began his adult career as a surveyor.
One of the places, Washington surveyed was "Natural Bridge" in Virginia. This famous
spot was once owned by Thomas Jefferson.
Washington even carved his initials on a rock wall next to Natural Bridge and they can still be seen today.
The Museum at Mount Vernon has diligently created the likeness of George Washington at many stages of his life. Here is one.
This painting was commissioned by Greathall for our CD cover of "George Washington, First in the Hearts of his Countrymen," from artist, Scott DuBar
Over the years, George Washington participated in multiple conflicts to defend our country that took him away from his beloved Mount Vernon.
Here is another representation from the Mount Vernon Museum of George Washington heading his troops.
Jim is photo'd here on the back terrace of Mount Vernon with the beautiful Potomac River in the background.
George Washington and Thomas Jefferson once sat on the chairs on this terrace discussing their dream of a U.S.A. stretching across the continent.
Can't you just imagine what they said?
George Washington was a talented farmer and agriculturalist.
A section of the lush gardens at Mount Vernon.
The flower gardens at Mount Vernon are magnificent.
George Washington believed that good soil was necessary and vital to excellent planting results. He also pioneered planting in straight rows and rotating crops.
Jim and his guide stand in the background of where the dung was stored at Mount Vernon before its use as fertilizer and compost.
The slaves who lived at Mount Vernon during George and Martha's residency are honored today at a memorial.
George and Martha Washington were able to free their slaves upon their death(s).
Slavery was a complicated and controversial issue at the time of the founding of our country.
The Slave Memorial at Mount Vernon inspires reflection and care.
Washington's support for the new Constitution gave it essential credibility, both during its creation and afterward.
George Washington takes the oath of office as President of the United States in New York City.
Here is a beautiful stained glass portrayal of George Washington becoming the first president of The United States of America.
"Scholars debate whether Washington added these final four words to the oath as set forth by the Constitution.
Most modern day presidents include these words and think they are following in Washington's footsteps."
George Washington was ready and anxious to retire to his beloved Mount Vernon after serving two four-year terms as the nation's first president.
This idealized portrait, "Washington and His Family, 1798" was painted by Jean Leon Gerome Ferris, 1895. One can only imagine how good it must have felt for Washington to be settled in at home with Martha and their family members.
Nelly Custis, George Washington's granddaughter, confirmed Washington's pleasure and delight to finally be back at Mount Vernon.
One can visit the final resting place of George and Marsha Washington at Mount Vernon. Inside the crypt are the tombs of George (left) and Martha (right).
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There are 5 pages of pictures of Virginia. This is page 4.
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