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Birthday
Martha Washington was born in New Kent County, Virginia. -
Marriage
Martha married Daniel Parke Custis when she was 18, and Custis in his late 30's. He was the son of one of the wealthiest men in Virginia, and took a lot of convincing to allow their marriage. They had four children, but only two survived until adulthood. -
Daniel Parke Custis Dies
After seven years of marriage and the birth of four children, Daniel died from a heart attack. After a good marriage Martha was left with a large house and two children. Daniel did not have a will, so Martha got one third of his wealth and her children got the rest. -
George Washington Marriage
The couple was very close, and George had visited Martha multiple times in 1758. Because of the marriage, George got Martha's wealth and became one of the wealthiest men in Virginia. Even though they did not have any children together, George was a great father to Martha's children. Throughout the marriage, Martha was responsible for running the household, and taking care of the slaves. -
Martha's Public Role Begins
As George Washington's fear of Martha's safety, she stayed with friends and family instead of their home in Mount Vernon. She began to appear publicly as George's wife, and took her traditional role a hostess in a different direction. She also took on the role of hostess and secretary for George Washington. -
Martha joined George in war from 1775-1783
Martha joined George at his winter encampment. She was not the only woman at the camp, there were other women offering their services for pay, as cooks, washerwomen, nurses, and more. They often talked and associated with each other to help each other through hard times. Martha was the hostess for lots of guest, the Washington residence was known for a haven of warmth, good food, and lively conversation. -
Martha Donates to the Soldiers
Local boards of women chose a representative ta act as a treasurer, collect funds, and keep a record of each donation. After it was collected they sent it to the first lady of their state, who would then send it to Martha Washington. They were then distributed to the soldiers at General Washington's discretion. She also donated $20,000 herself. She inspired so many people and was even included in a popular song in the Revolutionary era. -
Martha becomes the First Lady
George Washington was elected to become the country's first president. Martha took on the responsibilities of arranging major social events and parties for the presidential home in New York, setting standards for the future first ladies to follow. She also held public receptions and began to develop a friendship with the vice presidents wife, Abigail Adams. -
Martha Moves to New York
After George Washington's inauguration, Martha took on a more formal role in the capital. She was not pleased with less time for leisure, and more formality, but she did her responsibilities well. She was now serving as the first lady, and the Washington household moved to Philadelphia, 1791. -
George Washington Dies
George Washington died from a throat infection, while getting sick from the cold weather. After many doctors trying to help heal him, it got too bad. Martha grieved for a long time and did not go out in public frequently, but still took care of her children and grandchildren. -
Martha's slaves are set free
After George's death, Martha was left in charge of all 123 slaves they owned. In George's will he said that the slaves owned by him were to be set free. Fearing a rebellion Martha set their slaves free about a year after George's death. -
Death
Martha died from yellow fever.
