Historic Gardens of Virginia 



ericksburg, and staid at Kenmore. Madam Washington's one 

 recreation was walking and working in her garden. Her love for 

 her shrubs, flowers, and herbs was strong. LaFayette came by a 

 side street unannounced and entered the side gate. "Ah, Marquis! 

 You have come to see an old woman. But come in. I can make 

 you welcome without changing my dress. I am glad to see you. 

 I have often heard George speak of you." At the time she wore a 

 short gown of linsey, a broad-brimmed hat over her plaited under- 

 cap, and was raking leaves. She dropped the rake and took the 

 hand of the nobleman in both of hers. He bared his head and 

 bowed. Later, LaFayette said, "I have seen the only Roman 

 mother living at this day." 



April 14, 1789, she had a visit from her first-born. Washing- 

 ton had received notice of his election to the Presidency of the 

 United States and it was necessary for him to leave for New York. 

 He had galloped from Mount Vernon to spend an hour or more 

 with his mother. Time pressed, but he lingered, realizing the fact 

 that this might prove his last visit, as his mother was abed and 

 stricken with a fatal disease. His premonition was fulfilled, for 

 Mary Washington died August 25, 1789. New York was a week's 

 distance by special post rider, and the President did not receive 

 the news until September ist 



Fancy and imagination can fill in these few facts and we can 

 picture the grand old mother walking in this garden, both early 

 morning and at twilight, thinking of her boy, her first-born, leading 

 forces against the Mother country. How her heart ached for him, 

 as he met trouble and dangers. How her heart throbbed as she 

 thought of his glory. Prayer after prayer was offered for the 

 Colony, his forces and her son. As we tread the same brick walk 

 bordered by the same boxwood we feel a nearness to God, as this 

 is hallowed ground — to God and our country. 



Anna Marshall Braxton. 



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