The Women of the Washington Family
Many ladies occupied the Mount Vernon mansion. Martha Washington married George Washington in 1759, and brought her two young children with her, Jacky and Pasty. Later, the Washingtons raised two grandchildren, and entertained many guests. Scroll to learn about some of the females who lived at Mount Vernon and their roles at the estate.
Martha Washington
Martha Washington married George Washington in early 1759, and would move to Mount Vernon in the months following. She would later lead the estate's operations, help raise two grandchildren, and become the first First Lady of the United States.
Learn about Martha Washington
Martha "Patsy" Parke Custis
Martha Parke Custis, also known as "Patsy," was one of Martha Washington's two surviving children. She was known as a "sweet and innocent" girl, suffering from epileptic seizures in her teenage years.
Learn more about Patsy
Eleanor "Nelly" Parke Custis
Eleanor Parke Custis, also known as "Nelly," was raised by her grandmother, Martha Washington. She was described as a "little wild creature" by Martha and enjoyed educational opportunities in New York and Philadelphia as George Washington served as President.
Learn more about NellyMartha Dandridge is born
Martha Dandridge (later known as Martha Washington) is born on June 2, 1731 at Chestnut Grove, a plantation in New Kent County, Virginia.
Martha's Bedroom
Explore where Martha and George Washington slept at Mount Vernon. Be sure to look for Martha's desk, where she wrote letters and recorded information.
Nelly's Harpsicord
Music played a large part in Nelly's life. Explore her harpsichord and hear a few notes played from her music book.
A Day in the Life
See this interactive timeline to learn about Martha Washington's average day at Mount Vernon.
Primary Resources
Interested in researching these women? Explore their primary sources!
- The Washington Family - Painting
- Nelly as a Teenager - A Letter
- Martha's Surviving Letter to Washington
- Martha to her children during the Revolution
- Martha's Dress
- Martha's Will
- George's letter to Martha
- Martha's Letter on Being First Lady
- Wedding Shoes
- Bathing Gown
- Children's Sampler
- Patsy and Jacky as Children
- Patsy's Portrait
- Martha's Portrait
- Nelly's Portrait
- Martha's Bedroom Until 1799
- Martha's Bedroom After 1799
- Nelly's Bedchamber (around 1799)
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