Mount Vernon - Kitchen

"`My manner of living is plain,' wrote George Washington to a friend, 'and I do not mean to be put out of it. A glass of wine and a bit of mutton are always ready, and such as will be content to partake of them are always welcome. Those who expect more will be disappointed.' . . . Breakfast was at seven. According to one visitor it was served `in the usual Virginia style' and consisted of tea, coffee, and meat, cold and boiled. Dinner was at three. Many dinner guests have left accounts of their entertainment; one writes: 'The dinner was very good, a small roasted pigg, boiled leg of lamb, roasted fowls, beef, peas, lettuce, cucumbers, artichokes, etc., puddings, tarts, etc. etc. We were desired to call for what drinks we chose.' The choice of drinks would have included several wines, beer, and cider. General Washington's preference was for a fine Madeira wine." (Mount Vernon An Illustrated Handbook, 1974, 85-86, 88). Photo: Mount Vernon Ladies Association.