Lives Bound Together: Slavery and Freedom in the 19th Century
This page contains primary and secondary sources on events occurring after George and Martha Washington's deaths within the enslaved community at Mount Vernon. Use these resources to learn more about the system of slavery and find useful learning materials.
George Washington's Will
When George Washington was dying, he chose this will to be enacted after his death. The will stated that all enslaved people he outright owned would be freed after Martha's death.
Freedom for Some, Not All
Martha Washington as a Slave Owner
Unlike George Washington, Martha Washington did not seem to question the system of slavery. When she died, she chose not to free the enslaved people that she outright owned in her will.
Martha Washington on Slavery
A Community Divided
After the Washington's deaths, the enslaved population at Mount Vernon was divided as certain family members were freed, while others were kept under bondage.
What happened?Video
Did the Enslaved People Know They'd be Freed?
Learn more about how the news of freedom spread with this short video.
Explore the Slave Memorial
This memorial was created to honor the individuals who were enslaved at Mount Vernon.
A Timeline of Interpretation
Click the link to learn about how Mount Vernon interpreted enslavement at Washington's Estate
The Slave Memorial
Today at Mount Vernon, there is a memorial dedicated to the people enslaved before, during, and after Washington's time.
From Slavery to Freedom
After the Washingtons' deaths, many formerly enslaved people settled in neighboring freed black communities.
What happened to the enslaved community at Mount Vernon after the Washingtons’ deaths?
Primary Sources
Use these primary sources to learn more
Secondary Sources
Use these secondary sources to learn more
- The Death of George Washington
- George Washington's Family
- A Community Divided
- From Slavery to Freedom
- Eliza Parke Custis Law
- The Syphax Family
- Christopher Sheels
- Landscape of Slavery at Mansion House Farm
- George
- Kitty
- Martha Parke Custis Peter
- Eleanor "Nelly" Parke Custis
- George Washington Parke Custis
- Ancestors on the Ridge
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