“Perfectly Preserved” 18th Century Cherries Found In George Washington’s Mount Vernon Basement

In a remarkable archaeological discovery, a team of historians and preservationists at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate have unearthed a stunning find – a cache of perfectly preserved 18th century cherries hidden away in the basement of the historic mansion. The cherries, which date back to the time of Washington’s residency, offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the first president and his family.

The discovery was made during a routine excavation project aimed at restoring the basement of the mansion to its original 18th century appearance. As workers carefully removed layers of old flooring and debris, they stumbled upon a small, wooden container buried beneath the floorboards. To their surprise, the container was filled with a dozen or so cherries, remarkably well-preserved despite being over two centuries old.

“We were absolutely thrilled by the discovery,” said Dr. Susan Schoelwer, the curator of Mount Vernon’s museum collection. “The cherries are an incredible find, not just because of their age, but also because they provide a unique window into the daily lives of the Washington family.”

The cherries, which are believed to have been stored in the basement for use in cooking and baking, offer a fascinating insight into the culinary habits of the time. In the 18th century, cherries were a staple fruit in many American households, used in a variety of dishes from pies and tarts to sauces and preserves.

According to historians, the cherries were likely stored in the basement to keep them cool and fresh, a common practice in the days before refrigeration. The fact that they have survived for so long is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who lived at Mount Vernon.

The discovery of the cherries has also shed new light on the daily routines of the Washington family. “We know that Martha Washington was an accomplished cook and hostess, and it’s likely that she would have used these cherries in her recipes,” said Dr. Schoelwer. “The fact that they were stored in the basement suggests that they were a valued ingredient, and that the family took great care to preserve them for future use.”

The cherries are currently undergoing conservation and analysis at Mount Vernon’s museum laboratory, where experts are working to learn more about their origins and history. Once the analysis is complete, the cherries will be put on display at the Mount Vernon museum, where they will be seen by thousands of visitors each year.

The discovery of the cherries is a powerful reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of Mount Vernon, which has been painstakingly restored to its original 18th century appearance. The estate, which attracts over a million visitors each year, offers a unique glimpse into the life and times of America’s first president, and the cherries are just the latest in a long line of fascinating discoveries that have helped to bring that history to life.

In the end, the discovery of the cherries is a testament to the enduring power of history to surprise and delight us. As Dr. Schoelwer noted, “The cherries are a reminder that even in the most unexpected places, we can find hidden treasures that help us to better understand our past and our heritage.”