The sending of a letter in Colonial America was more challenging than today. The concept of post offices and regularly scheduled mail arrivals and departures evolved slowly in the colonies. Colonial mail faced many obstacles. Geography, political opposition, and a general lack of interest hindered a national system that serviced all the colonies. How to … Continue reading You’ve Got Mail: Development of the Colonial Postal Service in Virginia
Happy Birthday, George!
We are excited to be celebrating George Washington's 290th birthday (although it's the day before his actual birth date) on President's Day! On February 22, 1732, George was born in Westmoreland County, Virginia. Some interesting facts are associated with his birth-date and the subsequent birthday celebrations he would have as an adult. For instance, did … Continue reading Happy Birthday, George!
My Date with a Founding Figure
The staff at the George Washington Foundation posited the idea of what it would be like to go on a date with a Founding Figure. We use the term “Founding Figure,” because a couple of dates are with the ladies of the American Revolutionary period and not just the “fathers.” Although, fun fact, the term … Continue reading My Date with a Founding Figure
Behind the Glass of the Archaeology Lab: Creating an Exhibit
It can be daunting to look at a blank space and realize you are in charge of filling it. And not just filling it, you need to create something that will leave a lasting impression on the public. The process of creating an exhibit is much more complicated than it seems. From the initial idea … Continue reading Behind the Glass of the Archaeology Lab: Creating an Exhibit
What in the World is Twelfth Night?: A Visit with the Ghost of Twelfth Night Past
Usually, at this time of year preparations are well underway for our annual Twelfth Night at Kenmore: A Dramatic Performance. The play takes place in January 1776, during the first Christmas season celebrated at Kenmore. Unfortunately, this year’s celebration of Twelfth Night at Kenmore is canceled due to winter weather. However, if you are familiar … Continue reading What in the World is Twelfth Night?: A Visit with the Ghost of Twelfth Night Past
Dig These Dishes! We Recreate an 18th Century Table Setting Using Only Artifacts.
On a typical day at George Washington’s Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm, visitors experiencing the house tour are ushered into the main hall upon which a dining table is set out before them with 18th-century reproductions of plates, glassware, wine bottles, and serving dishes. This setting creates an interactive experience for our visitors, transporting them … Continue reading Dig These Dishes! We Recreate an 18th Century Table Setting Using Only Artifacts.
A Gift Across the Seas: Betty Washington’s Silver Tea Set from Her Uncle Joseph Ball
Couz. Betty Stratford by London 2nd [Nov] 1749 I have sent you by your brother Major Washington a Tea Chest; and in it Six Silver Spoons, and Strainer, and Tongs, of the Same. And in one Canister 1/2 L. [pound] of Green Tea, in The other a Pinch Bohee: and the Sugar box is full … Continue reading A Gift Across the Seas: Betty Washington’s Silver Tea Set from Her Uncle Joseph Ball
What’s the Scoop on the Poop?: Going to the Bathroom at Ferry Farm
But seriously…. World Toilet Day – today, November 19 – is kind of a big deal, considering the vast numbers of people across the globe who do not have access to indoor plumbing. According to the United Nations, 3.6 billion people in the world today do not have a toilet that is “not shared with … Continue reading What’s the Scoop on the Poop?: Going to the Bathroom at Ferry Farm
The Archaeological Process [Infographic]
Colonial Grossology [Video]
Looking back in time, people’s personal hygiene, fashion choices, medical treatments, and more can seem disgusting. When confronted with gross practices, our first reaction can be to dismiss our ancestors as primitive, ignorant, or just silly. Before such judgments, however, we should try to understand the reasons behind these practices and recognize that our own … Continue reading Colonial Grossology [Video]
Lives & Legacies 