Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
FEATURES OF MR. WASHINGTON'S FARM
1. 16-SIDED TREADING BARN
With this unique design, George Washington created one of the most aesthetically
pleasing and yet efficient working barns. The circular floorplan of the building with
its slatted upper floor allowed horses to tread over grain placed on the floor to break
the heads from the stalks. The grain then fell through the slats into temporary stor-
age below. The building seen today is a painstaking reconstruction of the original
based on thorough research by numerous archeologists and curators.
Google Map
View photo
2. SHIPPING AND RECEIVING DOCK
The wharf of the plantation was the main transportation center for shipping out-
bound produce and receiving farming and household supplies. The Potomac River
was a major carrier of passengers and trade goods in Washington's day. At this evoc-
ative spot on its banks, it is easy to imagine the bustle and excitement of early com-
merce on the river.
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3. RIVER TOURS
Visitors can still use the Potomac River to reach Mount Vernon. Two tour boat lines
serve the wharf from the city: Spirit Cruise Line and Potomac Riverboat Company.
Spirit Cruise Line also offers lovely summer river sightseeing tours originating and
ending at Mount Vernon's wharf.
Spirit Cruise Line • 1 866 835 8851 •
www.cruisetomountvernon.com
Potomac Riverboat Company • 703 548 9000 •
www.potomacriverboatco.com
