The education center at George Washington's Mount Vernon is a place for discovery. Inside are interactive exhibits, historic displays, and video presentations to intrigue visitors. Here, I saw Washington's surveying equipment, reverse-aged models of George Washington, a sword from early in his military career, a detailed diorama of the blunder-filled Fort Necessity, artwork, and Washington's spectacles and false teeth. Short videos feature the Washingtons' religious influences, George's and Martha's personal relationship, and Washington's spy ring.
There are a couple of major multimedia attractions in the education center, as well. One is the 4D theater, featuring Washington's War, a presentation that includes vibrating seats, smoke, and snow. Another is the new Be Washington, where guests are presented the same major decisions that George Washington faced. Our group played two of the scenarios, and I learned some things I did not know.
Elsewhere in the education center is the museum. Currently featured is the Lives Bound Together exhibit, which contrasts the lives of Washington's 317 slaves with the Washingtons themselves. Here is where guests can view the gun with which George hunted waterfowl. That gun was longer than I am tall and must have been difficult to wield. Primary documents are also on display, including some in the handwriting of the Washington family, Alexander Hamilton, and others. Unfortunately, there is no photography allowed in this fascinating area.
Elsewhere in the education center is the museum. Currently featured is the Lives Bound Together exhibit, which contrasts the lives of Washington's 317 slaves with the Washingtons themselves. Here is where guests can view the gun with which George hunted waterfowl. That gun was longer than I am tall and must have been difficult to wield. Primary documents are also on display, including some in the handwriting of the Washington family, Alexander Hamilton, and others. Unfortunately, there is no photography allowed in this fascinating area.
