President's Day: A Tribute to George Washington

President's Day has come to honor the birthdays of both George Washington (Feb. 22) and Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12).

I've created a slideshow below of some of the things I saw in and around Washington D.C. back in October that relate to George Washington.

Though Washington never lived in the White House, he chose the location for it and construction began while he was president.

I also included some shots of the Washington Monument, the feature which dominates the D.C. sky for miles around. The monument was built in honor of George Washington. And if you notice the difference in color part of the way up the monument (as I did), it's because the project ran out of money and sat unfinished for 27 years before work resumed to completion; so the bottom stones are 27 years older and more weathered than the rest.

The remaining photos are from George Washington's estate Mount Vernon along the Potomac River in Virginia. The estate has been beautifully restored and kept up by the Ladies of Mount Vernon. We were not permitted to take pictures inside, but it was an incredible tour. I remember the feeling of history as I walked upstairs, running my hand along the same banister that the father of our country had done so many times so many years ago. I remember the aged but ornate look of the largest room in the house, where Washington had both dances and planned war strategy at various times. I remember seeing the replica of the key to the Bastille ( the original was on a historical tour across the country) that Marquis de Lafayette sent to his old friend George Washington during the French Revolution.

I also recall the dove weather vane Washington had custom-made for Mt Vernon after the American Revolution (if I remember correctly, the original was in the nearby museum, not the replica currently on top of the mansion). On one hand it might seem ironic that a man who fought in the French and Indian War, and led the American Revolution, would choose the symbol of peace to fly over his estate. But I believe it shows that even as wise warriors are prepared for and sometimes fight wars, they more than anyone appreciate peace.

George Washington was undoubtedly a Christian, though revisionists would rather cover that up, these days. David Barton's Wallbuilders has some great information about Washington's faith. Also, while touring Mt Vernon I noted this verse on his tomb:


Why would anyone other than a committed Christian have such a quote from Jesus Christ on his tomb?

Consider also his Thanksgiving proclamation, rendering honor and thanks to God, and his farewell address when leaving the presidency.

It is fitting that the man who gave so much and fought so hard to win our independence, and then served this nation honorably with two terms as president (passing up a kingship) should grace Mount Rushmore.



I hope you enjoy the slideshow. Our history is important; let us cherish it.