Who was Martha Washington? Everything You Need to Know

Quick Facts

Also Known As: Martha Dandridge

Died At Age: 70

Family:

Spouse/Ex-: Daniel Parke Custis (m. 1750–1757), George Washington (m. 1759–1799)

father: John Dandridge

mother: Francis Jones

siblings: Anna Marie, Bartholomew (1737–1785), John (1733–1749), William (1734–1776)

children: John Parke Custis

First Ladies American Women

Died on: May 22, 1802

place of death: Mount Vernon, Virginia, United States

U.S. State: Virginia

Ancestry: British American

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1

What impact did Martha Washington have on the American Revolution?

Martha Washington supported her husband, George Washington, during the American Revolution by visiting him at winter encampments, providing morale support to the troops, and helping with logistical and administrative tasks.
2

How did Martha Washington contribute to the founding of the United States?

Martha Washington played a role in the founding of the United States by hosting political gatherings at Mount Vernon, where important figures would discuss ideas and plans for the new nation.
3

What was Martha Washington's role during George Washington's presidency?

As the first First Lady of the United States, Martha Washington set the tone for the position by hosting social events, representing the country with grace and dignity, and supporting her husband's political endeavors.
4

How did Martha Washington influence society during her time?

Martha Washington influenced society by setting an example of patriotism, charity, and grace. She was seen as a model of virtue and helped shape the role of the First Lady in American society.
5

What legacy did Martha Washington leave behind?

Martha Washington's legacy includes being remembered as a devoted wife, a gracious hostess, and a symbol of the early American republic. Her contributions to the Revolutionary War and the early days of the United States have left a lasting impact on American history.

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Childhood & Early Life

She was born as the eldest daughter of John Dandridge and his wife Frances Jones. She had seven siblings and was also rumored to have two illegitimate half-siblings.

She was informally trained at home in music, sewing and household management. She also knew how to read and write, and had basic knowledge about animal husbandry and plantation management.

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Later Years

She married Daniel Parke Custis, a much older rich planter in 1750 when she was 18 years old. She had four children with him, of whom two died in childhood.

Her husband died in 1757 leaving her as a rich young widow. She had the full control over her dower inheritance which included properties and slaves. The skilled woman successfully ran the five plantations her husband had left her.

The young widow met Colonel George Washington who expressed an interest in marrying her. The couple was married in a grand ceremony in 1759. Together they raised Martha’s two surviving children.

She had a vast inheritance to take care of and was very skilled at managing the large staff of servants. Her husband managed the financial affairs of the plantations. The talented woman oversaw the processes of harvesting and processing of fruits and vegetables, dairy and meat products, herbs for making medicines, etc.

George was appointed the General of the American Army during the American Revolution by the Continental Congress. Martha enlisted the support of other women in the colonies and encouraged them to contribute financially and to gather supplies for the Continental Army during the bitter winter time.

After the colonies achieved their independence and the U.S. Constitution was ratified, George Washington was unanimously elected to be the country’s first president. His inauguration was held on 30th April, 1789.

She received several guests and hosted many affairs at New York and Philadelphia which were the temporary capitals after her husband came to office. She held Friday public receptions and also developed a friendship with Abigail Adams, wife of the vice president John Adams.

She served as the First Lady for eight years till 1797. Used to living a free and uninhibited life before becoming the first lady, she found this lifestyle to be stifling. However she was a dutiful wife and did everything in her power to fulfill her obligations as the president’s wife properly.

She was very kind and benevolent towards the Revolutionary War veterans and used to provide financial support to those in need.

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Being the first First Lady, she had no role model to look up to within her own country. She looked to Europe for inspiration in hosting public functions and affairs; the Europeans also respected her in return and even sent her gifts.

The president’s second term was up in 1797 and the Washingtons went to Mount Vernon for their retired life. They remained a popular couple even after retirement and were often visited by several individuals holding high office. She continued to entertain guests even after her husband had died.

Major Works

She was the first First Lady of the United States and was noted for her patience, hard work, and loyalty towards her husband and country. As the wife of the very first president of the United States she set a precedent for other First Ladies to follow in future.

Personal Life & Legacy

She married a rich planter, Daniel Parke Custis in 1750 when she was just 18 years old. Her husband was two decades older. The couple had four children of whom only two survived childhood. Custis died in 1757.

Her second marriage was to George Washington in 1759. The couple did not have any children of their own but they raised her children from her previous marriage.

As a mother she was very unlucky as all the four of her children predeceased her. Her son John was the only one of her children who married and had issues. After her son’s death she became her grandchildren’s guardian.

Her marriage to George Washington was one based on mutual affection and care. She was a strong and independent woman who was also a dutiful wife.

She died at the age of 70 in her home in 1802.

Facts About Martha Washington

Martha Washington was known for her love of gardening and spent much of her time tending to the plants and flowers at Mount Vernon.

Martha was an avid letter writer and maintained correspondence with many notable figures of her time, showcasing her intelligence and wit.

Martha Washington was a skilled horsewoman and enjoyed riding and caring for horses, which was a passion she shared with her husband, George Washington.

Martha was known for her generosity and philanthropy, often providing support and assistance to those in need in her community.

Martha Washington was an excellent hostess and entertained guests at Mount Vernon with grace and hospitality, making her home a welcoming place for visitors.

Martha Washington Biography

You wanted to know

What impact did Martha Washington have on the American Revolution?

How did Martha Washington contribute to the founding of the United States?

What was Martha Washington's role during George Washington's presidency?

How did Martha Washington influence society during her time?

What legacy did Martha Washington leave behind?