Listen To History with the Washingtons

Listen To History with the Washingtons – George Washington’s legacy is profound and multifaceted, shaping the very foundation of the United States. He is revered as the “Father of His Country,” a title earned through his instrumental roles as commander of the Continental Army, president of the Constitutional Convention, and the first President of the United States. His leadership during the Revolutionary War secured American independence, and his establishment of key precedents during his presidency set a lasting example for future leaders. 

Martha Washington was the first first lady of the United States and spent about half of the Revolutionary War at the front with General Washington. She helped manage and run her husbands’ estates and raised her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

Just as her husband realized that his every action might set a precedent for future presidents, so was Mrs. Washington aware that her behavior as first lady would become the template for the wives of future chief executives. One of her most important steps was to initiate a weekly reception held on Friday evenings for anyone who would like to attend.

At these gatherings, members of Congress, visiting dignitaries, and men and women from the local community were received at the presidential mansion. After being presented to Mrs. Washington, they enjoyed refreshments, talked with each other, and mingled. Although most guests addressed Martha as “Lady Washington,” some referred to her as “our Lady Presidentess.”

Critics occasionally complained that these weekly gatherings smacked of monarchy or represented a slavish imitation of the rituals and fashions of the discredited British Crown. Yet Martha won over the skeptics. Opening up the president’s house to ordinary citizens was a sign that the new government would be close to the people and responsive to their needs.

Moreover, although George Washington hosted his own gatherings, Martha Washington’s salons were more diverse, bringing together a disparate group of people: political adversaries, individuals from different parts of government, and women as well as men. According to Abigail Adams, wife of the vice-president, Mrs. Washington’s behavior as lady made her “the object of Veneration and Respect.”

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