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George Washington: America's First Lady

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On April 30, 1789, George Washington was announced president. Three weeks later the United States welcomed the nation’s first lady, Mrs. Martha Washington, in Baltimore, Maryland (McPherson, 1998). After leaving Baltimore, she travelled to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The celebration continued as crowds gathered to welcome her into office. Her last stop was New York City, the United State’s capital at the time (McPherson). Her husband met her along the way. Many people came to welcome them in, even the governor of New York. It was an extraordinary day of celebrating our country’s first lady (McPherson). During the beginning of Washington’s role as first lady, she felt more like a prisoner. A decision was made that the Washington’s should not …show more content…

Young Washington was born on June 2, 1731 in New Kent County, Virginia (Brady, 2006). Growing up during that time most girls didn’t receive much education, but John Dandridge, Washington’s father, insisted that his daughters were taught the basics of reading, writing, mathematics, and religion. During her childhood, Washington loved learning, listening to music, and attending dance lessons (Brady). She also enjoyed riding horses, cooking, and gardening. At an early age, Washington also learned how to sew and embroider …show more content…

Custis was a wealthy plantation owner (Brown, 2006). She and her husband lived on a 17,500 acre estate. Washington had their first child in 1751. They named him Daniel Parke Custis after his father. Two years later, she gave birth to their daughter, Frances Parke Custis (Brown). Unfortunately, their son passed away at three years old. This tragic moment made Washington become very protective over her daughter for fear of losing her (Brown). Not long after losing her first child, she gave birth to another baby boy. They named him John Parke Custis. In 1756, she had her last child Washington Parke Custis, also known as Patsy. Despite Washington’s constant watch over her children, four-year-old Frances died (Brown). Sadly, her problems didn’t stop there. In July 1757, her husband passed away from an extended illness (Brown). A few months after her husband’s passing, Washington was formally introduced to George Washington when visiting her friends in the Chamberlaynes (Lewis, 2007). After a few weeks pass of Washington and George getting to know each other, George felt ready to marry Washington. However, he wasted time in proposing. On January 6, 1759, they got married at the White House

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