Explore the inspiring stories of notable former board members who truly made a difference in the history of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association.
Ann Pamela Cunningham
Served 1853-1874
The founder of the Mount Vernon Ladies Association (MVLA), Ann Pamela Cunningham created the organization responsible for saving and restoring Mount Vernon. In doing so, she established one of the earliest preservation and heritage organizations in the United States.
Learn more
Mary Coxe Chesnut
Served 1860-1864
The first Vice Regent for South Carolina was the only member of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association to have actually seen George Washington in person. In 1777, she and several other young women serenaded the president-elect on his inaugural tour.
Learn more
Emma Read Ball
Served 1874-1918
The third Vice Regent for Virginia defended the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association against a bill which would transfer ownership of Washington's estate to the government in the early 20th century.
Learn morePast Regents
Each Regent of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association has put her own touch on the position and the Estate.
Alice Longfellow
Served 1879-1928
The daughter of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Alice Longfellow ranks as the longest-serving vice regent in the history of the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association.
Learn more
Phoebe Apperson Hearst
Served 1889-1918
The second Vice Regent for California was a remarkable woman who tamed the Potomac River, electrified the estate, and advocated women's education in the early 20th century.
Learn moreWe Accept No Government Funding
We are proud that Mount Vernon does not accept government funding. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and rely solely upon patriotic individuals, foundations, and corporations to help preserve George Washington’s home and to educate visitors from all over the world.
Preservation
Mount Vernon Ladies' Association
Learn more about the first national historic preservation organization and its work to preserve Washington's home for over 150 years.
MEMBERSHIP
Become a Member and Support Our Mission
The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association was the first national historic preservation organization and is the oldest women's patriotic society in the United States. Support their continued efforts by becoming a member.