Legend has it that many of the popular childhood stories about young George Washington happened at Ferry Farm. Did he chop down his father’s cherry tree? Did he throw a stone or silver dollar across the Rappahannock River? Did he really hand copy “The Rules of Civility and Decent Behavior?"

Nestled on the north bank of the Rappahannock River in Stafford County, Virginia sits Ferry Farm. This 18th century farm is where George Washington, the first President of the United States, spent much of his early life. While his leadership during the Revolutionary War and his presidency are widely studied, the formative years of his childhood–especially those spent on his family’s farm– also offer valuable insights into the roots of his character and values. It has become a treasured site of both legend and rigorous historical work.

George’s father, Augustine Washington acquired the property in 1738 when George was only six years old, and lived there with his family until he was around 22 years old. The farm consisted of roughly 600 acres and was primarily used for tobacco cultivation, which was the economic backbone of colonial Virginia. George spent much of his childhood exploring the fields, woods, and riverbanks of Ferry Farm. 

Life at the farm was shaped by the rhythms of colonial agriculture.  George 

Washington, like other children of his time, was expected to help with chores from a young age. These included tending to crops, caring for livestock, and assisting with household duties. The physical labor and responsibilities instilled in him a strong work ethic and practical knowledge of farming. After Augustine’s death in 1743, the family faced financial challenges, and George’s mother, Mary Ball Washington, took over the management of the farm, further demonstrating perseverance and resilience—traits that would become hallmarks of her son’s character.

For a long time the exact location of Ferry Farm could only be speculated at, but after years of dedicated archeological work researchers in 2008 identified the foundation and cellar remains of the original clapboard house, dating to the 1740’s. Today, Ferry Farm is recognized as an important historical site. Continued excavations have uncovered artifacts from the Washington family’s time, including pieces of ceramics, tools, and remnants of the original house. These discoveries have helped historians reconstruct the daily life and environment of Washington’s boyhood and build a replica house using traditional materials and building methods. 

Ferry Farm, a National Historical Landmark, is owned and operated by The George Washington Foundation. It now serves as a museum and educational center, offering visitors a chance to:

George Washington’s boyhood farm is more than just a historic property—it is a window into the upbringing and character development of the man who would become the “Father of His Country.” The values forged at Ferry Farm continue to inspire generations, reminding us that the seeds of greatness are often sown in humble beginnings.

To plan your visit and learn more: https://kenmore.org/visit-george-washingtons-ferry-farm/