Celebrate George on Presidents' Day

Celebrate our country's first President at Tudor Place, containing the largest collection of Washington artifacts outside Mount Vernon. Enjoy self-guided tours through the historic mansion and a special exhibit of rare objects tied to George Washington. In 2013, for the first time, these will include a gold, 1741 pocket watch, recently donated to Tudor Place and conserved by experts after 270 years in private hands.

According to family history, Washington presented the timepiece to Eleanor Calvert upon her 1774 marriage to John Parke Custis, his stepson. Also brought out (exclusively) for President's Day is a 1775 letter from Washington to his wife Martha, one of just three known to exist, that he wrote on taking command of the Continental Army. Read it and take home your own copy for a rare glimpse into the public hero's affectionate, human side. Martha's needlework and tea table and (shown above) a rare Washington portrait miniature painted from life will also be on view, with collections staff and curator on hand to answer questions as you tour the mansion at your own pace. Before and after your tour, enjoy 18th century gaming, dancing, and crafts led by costumed interpreters.