George Washington's Mount Vernon

After 55 years, Mount Vernon’s horticulturist and longest-serving employee is set to retire

Published August 9, 2024 at 3:30PM

Mount Vernon Director of Horticulture and Livestock Dean Norton is retiring (courtesy George Washington's Mount Vernon)

Dean Norton, Mount Vernon’s Director of Horticulture and Livestock, will retire at the end of the year after an “extraordinary” 55-year career, the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association announced this week.

Upon his retirement, Norton will receive the honorific title of Director of Horticulture and Livestock Emeritus, in recognition of his service to George Washington’s Mount Vernon and the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association. The association is also compiling an oral history which will become part of its permanent archives.

Around Town

Where to see fireworks in Fairfax County for Fourth of July 2024

By Angela Woolsey

Published June 28, 2024 at 11:30AM

Independence Day fireworks at Yeonas Park in Vienna (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

Lake Fairfax Park isn’t the only spot in Fairfax County planning an early Fourth of July party this year.

The Fairfax County Park Authority’s Independence Day celebration in Reston will compete tomorrow (Saturday) with festivities in McLean, Lorton and Mount Vernon, where George Washington’s estate will kick off two days of fireworks tonight (Friday).

News

‘Blockbuster discovery’: 35 bottles filled with 18th century berries unearthed at Mount Vernon

By Inside NoVA

Published June 17, 2024 at 3:00PM

Preserved bottles with cherries found at George Washington's Mount Vernon (courtesy Mount Vernon Ladies' Association)

Following the spring discovery of two 200-year-old bottles of plump cherries at Mount Vernon, archeologists have now unearthed another 35 glass bottles containing more berries from the 18th century.

Of the 35 bottles recently discovered in five storage bins in the mansion cellar, 29 are intact and contain perfectly preserved cherries and berries, likely gooseberries or currants, Mount Vernon said in a news release.

News

Group behind George Washington’s Mount Vernon honored by governor, first lady

By Melanie Pincus

Published March 21, 2024 at 9:30AM

Virginia First Lady Suzanne Youngkin presents the Spirit of Virginia award to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association (official photo by Shealah Craighead)

The nonprofit responsible for historic preservation at Mount Vernon collected a state-level honor last week.

The Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association received the first of six 2024 Spirit of Virginia awards from Gov. Glenn Youngkin and First Lady Suzanne Youngkin on Friday (March 15).

Countywide

Morning Notes

By FFXnow.com

Published July 6, 2022 at 7:30AM

A summer sunset over the I-66 West exit ramp in Centreville (staff photo by Angela Woolsey)

I-66 West Traffic Changes in Oakton Today — “I-66 West between Nutley Street and Vaden Drive will be shifted to a new, long-term configuration beginning during the early morning hours on or about Wednesday, July 6. When this traffic change is implemented, the two right travel lanes will be separated from the two left travel lanes by barrier…This temporary traffic pattern will remain in place for approximately two months, and is part of the Transform 66 Outside the Beltway Project.” [VDOT]

Search for Suspect in Hybla Valley Homicide Continues — “A year ago today, Tafari ‘Trey’ Nadhim was fatally shot in the 7900 blk of Janna Lee Ave. Detectives continue to seek answers for Trey’s family & friends. If you have any info about his death, please call 703-246-7800 or submit tips through Crime Solvers.” [FCPD/Twitter]

Countywide

South County rebranded as ‘Potomac Banks’ with new tourism campaign and discount pass

By David Taube

Published May 19, 2022 at 9:45AM | Updated December 9, 2022 at 2:40PM

Fairfax County officials launch a new "Potomac Banks" branding and tourism campaign at George Washington's Mount Vernon estate (staff photo by David Taube)

Just in time for the summer tourist season, Fairfax County is stepping up its efforts to promote the amenities in its southeastern area, providing a discount pass for admissions and more.

County and tourism officials, along with staff of George Washington’s Mount Vernon, touted a new digital pass yesterday (Wednesday) that gives visitors at historic sites and other destinations 20% off admissions and other deals.

Countywide

George Washington estate assembles collection of never-before-displayed artifacts

By David Taube

Published March 29, 2022 at 11:15AM | Updated December 9, 2022 at 2:33PM

Mount Vernon, the former estate of President George Washington (via Google Maps)

Mount Vernon, the primary home of George Washington before and after his presidency, has begun a new permanent collection nearly as notable as the first president.

Opened on Saturday (March 26), the newly acquired items represent the “largest reunion of original Mount Vernon objects since the dispersal of George and Martha Washington’s estates in 1802,” according to an announcement for the exhibit, “Mount Vernon: The Story of an American Icon.”