Photos by Marny Malin
You can take the oath of office at the life-size display of George Washington’s Inauguration in Mount Vernon.
I f you stayed home the past few days to avoid the Inauguration crowds but would still like to partake in the event, or you just couldn’t get enough of the Inauguration, head over to Mount Vernon.
Mount Vernon celebrates the historic Inauguration of President Obama by displaying items from the very first Inauguration of George Washington.
A six-foot-high face of George Washington greets visitors entering the education center. His face is a concave sculpture that appears to follow visitors as they walk by.
Guests can take the oath of office in the new interactive Inaugural Gallery while standing in front of George Washington. There are three life-sized models in the education center of the first president created from a forensic science investigation. The models show Washington at the ages of 19, 45 and 57.
One of the center’s highlights is a fast-paced depiction of three military engagements - Boston, Trenton, and Yorktown - in the Elizabeth and David Bruce Smith Theatre. Seats in the theatre rumble as cannons fire, fog drifts around visitors’ feet, and real snow falls from the ceiling as troops cross the Delaware River.
Visitors to Mount Vernon earlier in the week had the chance to see the very first Inaugural buttons worn by supporters of Washington featuring patriotic phrases. The buttons were worn as part of clothing.
Also on display was an exhibition of Presidential china, which offered a great look into intricacies of Presidential tradition. George Washington wanted tableware that reflected the democratic ideals of a new nation, did not suggest lavishness, but, was sophisticated enough to gain respect from foreign visitors.
In addition to the Inauguration, Mount Vernon celebrates the 250th wedding anniversary of George and Martha Washington. On display until Feb. 23 are Mrs. Washington’s wedding slippers. They have not been on exhibit for more than 30 years.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate is minutes away from Fort Belvoir at the southern end of the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Regular admission rates are: adults, $15; senior citizens, $14; children age 6 to 11, $7; and children under age 5 are free. Proceeds support the operation and restoration of Mount Vernon.
