One of the most striking features of George Washington’s Mount Vernon is its grand panorama over the Potomac River. It’s easy for me to imagine those views providing Washington both solace and inspiration during the 45 years he lived there. Although public duty often called him elsewhere, Washington took a keen interest in pretty much everything concerning his country estate. From the expansion of his modest home into an 11,000-square-foot mansion to the establishment of one of America’s largest distilleries, a flour mill, experimental husbandry and a fishery, Washington oversaw it all.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon was founded by his father and named by his brother. But why didn’t George subsequently rename it after himself, especially after becoming one of the wealthiest real estate tycoons of his era? That’s apparently what President Donald Trump wanted to know when visiting Mount Vernon in April 2019.
“If he was smart, he would’ve put his name on it,” Trump said, according to sources quoted in Politico. “You’ve got to put your name on stuff or no one remembers you.”
Of course, after more than 220 years since George Washington’s death, it appears Washington’s name isn’t in danger of being forgotten any time soon. He consistently lands among the top on polls ranking America’s best presidents.
I was able to visit Barbados, where Washington lived as an impressionable 19 year old, and his Mount Vernon estate, both of which led me to appreciate how great a leader he was. Serving as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War and then two terms as president of our new nation, Washington played a huge role in the shape of our government, and, from what I can tell, ego did not get in the way.
Besides, don’t you think that the fact that our nation’s capital was named after Washington is tribute enough, trumping estates, buildings, towers or anything else that might have carried his name?
For more about George Washington, his life, his homes, his legacy, and why I consider him one of our greatest leaders, read my article below (originally appearing in gettingontravel.com, which has sadly ceased publication):
For more on Barbados, see my post Impressions of Barbados in Pictures.
OK, I know he accomplished a lot during his years, however, his beloved Mount Vernon was built and run on the backs of slaves. It wasn’t until his death that he freed them. I think he could have/should have done much more with his position of power. Just my 2 cents.
You are absolutely right, Gretchen. I address slavery in the linked article.
Fascinating