This traveling exhibition from George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens offers a new and refreshing perspective on our nation’s first president, his achievements, and his family and times. Nearly 100 original objects associated with Washington are featured. The N.C. Museum of History is the only venue in the Southeast on the exhibition’s national tour.

Highlights include:
• the only surviving complete set of Washington’s famous dentures;
• life-size figures of Washington based on cutting-edge forensic research;
• Gilbert Stuart’s famous portrait of Washington, ca. 1798;
• family Bible from Washington’s personal library; and
• decorative art and jewelry from the Washington family.
Discover the Real George Washington goes beyond the iconic image on the dollar bill to reveal the real George Washington not only as a general and president, but as a young land surveyor, experimental farmer and savvy entrepreneur. Washington’s views on religion and slavery, and the influence of his wife, Martha, are also explored. Life-size figures of Washington developed through a cutting-edge forensic investigation, engaging videos, intricate three-dimensional architectural models, and interactive displays will enhance the visitor experience.

Discover the Real George Washington was organized by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association and funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation. Admission is free for ages 18 and under. The fee is $10 for ages 19 and up; $8 for senior citizens, active military personnel and college students with an ID, and adult groups of 10 or more. First Fridays special rates information at ncmuseumofhistory.org. To book group tours, call 919-807-7950 or toll-free 866-724-8687. For more information, go to ncmuseumofhistory.org.

Lunch with George Washington at the N.C. Museum of History

Groups of 70 people or less can have “Lunch with George Washington” at the N.C. Museum of History in Raleigh. A $28-per-person fee includes a delicious catered lunch and admission to the exhibition Discover the Real George Washington: New Views from Mount Vernon, on view from Sept. 10, 2010, through Jan. 21, 2011. Tour the exhibition before or after you enjoy gourmet sandwiches, fresh fruit, salad, dessert, and Southern iced tea. Booking times are subject to availability.

This traveling exhibition from George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens offers a new and refreshing perspective on our nation’s first president, his achievements, and his family and times. Nearly 100 original objects associated with Washington are featured. Discover the Real George Washington is organized by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association and funded by the Donald W. Reynolds Foundation.

To schedule lunch with George Washington, call Cheri Williams at 919-807-7875 or e-mail cheri.williams@ncdcr.gov. For more information about the Museum of History, call 919-807-7900 or access ncmuseumofhistory.org or Facebook®.