A History Of George And Martha Washington
George and Martha Washington are famous in history for being the first presidential couple of the newly formed country, the United States of America. Their union was reported to be a happy and harmonious one, and they remained together from the time of their wedding in 1759 to George’s death in 1799.
George And Martha Washington
Both were 27 when they married, a relatively late age to enter matrimony in the settler society of the time. It was George’s first marriage, but Martha was a widow who had borne 4 children to her previous husband, Daniel Custis. Sadly, two had died very young, and the others only survived until young adulthood. They had no more children together, but took over the care of two of Martha’s grandchildren after the death of her son.
At the time of his marriage, George’s military career was well-established, having served with distinction in the 7 years war. Martha’s first husband died in 1757, leaving her a substantial inheritance. George proposed the following year, and the couple made a home in Mount Vernon, Virginia. George settled down to the life of a wealthy plantation owner, but was to return to the the battlefield as commander-in-chief of the victorious revolutionary army in the American War of Independence.
After presiding over the convention which drafted the American constitution in 1787, he became president in 1789, bringing stability to the fledgling union which was later to become the most powerful nation on earth. Martha moved with him to New York, then the capital, where she undertook a busy social schedule, hosting numerous parties and gatherings.
George left office in 1797 and they returned to a quiet life in Mount Vernon. Unfortunately, George didn’t get much time to enjoy his retirement as he took ill and passed away in 1799. Martha, having already lost all four of her children, was grief stricken, and refused to enter their bed chamber after his death. She lived only three more years, passing away in 1802.
Throughout their married life, George and Martha Washington were a loving couple, devoted to their children and grandchildren. Together they helped found a strong, independent country and are both significant figures in American history.
Posted: April 15th, 2010 under Couples in History.