Lady Washington
Americans often call George Washington the father of our country. Some people consider his wife, Martha, to be the mother of the United States.
(During her life, Martha Washington was known as Lady Washington.)
The Mini Page celebrates Mother’s Day, May 9, with a story about the busy life of a famous mother and wife, Martha Washington.
Early life
Growing up, Martha Dandridge was taught the skills that it would take to be a good wife in 18th-century America. These included housekeeping, religion, music and dancing.
Her father was a planter and county official. She was the oldest of eight children.
When she was almost 19, she married the richest man in the colony of Virginia, Daniel Custis. He was 20 years older than she. They were married seven years before he died. They had four children, but two of them died. Her husband’s death left Martha a very rich woman.
Martha and George
Martha Custis met George Washington after her husband died. Washington was already famous as a hero in the French and Indian War.
They were married on Jan. 6, 1759, at Martha’s plantation, White House. They moved to Mount Vernon, George’s home.
Family life
While Martha and George never had children of their own, they did raise the two surviving children she had before she married him.
When he grew up, Jacky Custis married and had four children. He died at the age of 27 when he was serving with George Washington in the Revolutionary Army.
Patsy Custis (1756-1773) died at an early age. The Washingtons were always concerned about her health. Martha was very sad when Patsy died of epilepsy at the age of 17.
Martha’s family was the most important part of her life. She was always very protective of her children.