Mount Vernon
Virginia
Mount Vernon is the former plantation and residence of George Washington, the first president of the United States, located on the Potomac River in Virginia. Originally acquired by Washington's family in 1674, the estate evolved significantly under George Washington's ownership from 1754 onward. The mansion, built in a loose Palladian style, was constructed in stages starting around 1734 and expanded twice by Washington himself. The estate once encompassed 8,000 acres, now preserved as a 500-acre historic site with over 30 buildings. Mount Vernon is renowned for its classical architecture, including its distinctive cupola topped with a gilded dove of peace and symmetrical colonnades that form the Mansion Circle. The property escaped damage during the Civil War and was preserved by the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association since 1858. Today, it serves as a museum open daily to the public, showcasing the life and legacy of George Washington and providing insight into colonial plantation life and early American history.
ヒント: Visit Mount Vernon during spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Advance tickets are recommended, especially in peak season, and discounts are available for seniors, military, and children. Guided tours and audio guides enhance the experience. Allow at least two hours to explore the mansion, gardens, and museum exhibits comfortably.
興味深い事実
- •Mount Vernon was named after British Admiral Edward Vernon, a commander admired by Lawrence Washington, George Washington's half-brother.
- •The mansion's cupola is crowned by a gilded dove of peace, symbolizing harmony and ventilation.
- •The estate originally covered 8,000 acres but now comprises about 500 acres preserved for public visitation.
- •Mount Vernon escaped damage during the American Civil War, unlike many Southern estates.
- •The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, founded in 1858, is the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States.
歴史
The land that became Mount Vernon was first acquired by the Washington family in 1674.
The original house was built around 1734 by Augustine Washington, George Washington's father.
George Washington began leasing the estate in 1754 and became its sole owner in 1761, expanding the mansion twice during his lifetime.
After his death in 1799, the estate declined under successive owners until the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association took over in 1858 to preserve it.
The estate survived the American Civil War intact and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960, ensuring its preservation as a site of national heritage.
場所ガイド
The Mansion1734-1778
The centerpiece of Mount Vernon, the mansion exhibits classic Palladian architecture with its symmetrical colonnades, hipped roof, and iconic cupola topped by a gilded dove. Visitors can explore the original rooms furnished with period pieces reflecting George Washington's life.
Mansion Circle (Cour d'honneur)1778
The Mansion Circle is the grand courtyard formed by the main house and its two symmetrical secondary wings connected by quadrant colonnades. This design creates an imposing classical perspective unique to Mount Vernon.
Servants' Hall and Kitchen Wings1775-1778
These single-story wings flank the mansion, housing the servants' hall on the north side and the kitchen on the south. Connected by colonnades, they illustrate the operational aspects of plantation life.
連絡先
電話: (703) 780-2000
