Secret Virginia Podcast Episode 14: George Washington's Mount Vernon

Appearances are deceiving at George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Does his spirit still linger in the room where he died? Join our host, the mercurial Morella Belle, for Season 2 of the Secret Virginia Podcast, where we explore the hidden mysteries of the Old Dominion and its neighbors.

Each year, thousands of tourists visit Mount Vernon to learn about our first president, George Washington, but if you are among a lucky few, the white-haired general may pay you a personal visit. George Washington died at home in this upstairs bedroom on December 14, 1799. After only a few short years, visitors reported startling encounters with his ghost. An 1890 newspaper article declared “This historic chamber is haunted; of that there would seem to be little doubt.”

In 1830, a vindictive gardener attempted to steal Washington’s skull from his mausoleum, but accidentally absconded with that of a distant relative. This prompted a new, more secure crypt to be built, which still stands nearly two centuries later. #virginia #mountvernon #georgewashington