Near Mount Vernon in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Meat House
"The Recipe for smoked Beef is the same as for Hams, except, that in place of 2 lb sugar, take 2 qrts. of Molasses. The Beef must be put in bags also."
Eleanor Park Custis Lewis, 1832
This structure was a workplace for enslaved people engaged in the preparation and storage of pork and beef. While slaves were responsible for slaughtering and butchering in the fall, they were charged with providing enough meat for the gentry family year-round. Smaller portions were allotted for domestic servants and those living in the quarters.
After curing, the meat was hung and smoked for several days to impart flavor and repel insects. Slaves watched constantly to ensure that the fire did not go out or burn too high. Meat was stored here throughout the year, with the door locked to prevent theft.
[Caption:]
As the photograph illustrates, meat from the plantation would have been placed on racks and hung from rafters. Inside the Meat House, look for the remaining hooks. The smell of smoked meat would have been very prevalent at Woodlawn.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Agriculture. A significant historical year for this entry is 1832.
Location. 38° 43.075′ N, 77°
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in the Washington Metropolitan Area and in Northern Virginia. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Upper South, and in the Mid-Atlantic. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region, North America, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once the territory of the Mississippian Culture, one of the original Thirteen Colonies, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Woodlawn (here, next to this marker); The People of Woodlawn (a few steps from this marker); a different marker also named Woodlawn (within shouting distance of this marker); Dairy (within shouting distance of this marker); Necessary (within shouting distance of this marker); Pope-Leighey (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Potomac Connections (approx. 0.2 miles away); Woodlawn Historic Landscapes (approx. Ό mile away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Mount Vernon.
Credits. This page was last revised on May 1, 2026. It was originally submitted on October 11, 2019, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 302 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on October 11, 2019, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
