Mount Vernon near Alexandria in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Dung Repository
"When I speak of a knowing Farmer, I mean one who understands the best course of Crops […] & above all, Midas like, one who can convert everything he touches into manure, as the first transmutation towards Gold."
George Washington to George William Fairfax, June 30, 1785
The "repository for dung" was designed to compost animal manure and a variety of organic materials to cure into fertilizer for use in the nearby gardens and orchards. This building illustrate George Washington's dedication to progressive farming techniques. The original 31-by-12-foot open-walled structure was built in 1787 and was reconstructed in 2001. Archaeologists revealed remnants of the brick foundation walls along with the virtually intact cobblestone floor, which have been incorporated into this reconstructed building. Washington's dung repository is the first known structure in the United States devoted to composting.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Animals • Horticulture & Forestry. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #01 George Washington series list. A significant historical date for this entry is June 30, 1785.
Location. 38° 42.449′ N, 77° 5.213′ W. Marker is near Alexandria
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Washington's Vehicles (a few steps from this marker); Powel Coach (within shouting distance of this marker); Ha-ha Walls (within shouting distance of this marker); Espaliers and Cordons (within shouting distance of this marker); Kitchen (within shouting distance of this marker); Icehouse (within shouting distance of this marker); Lower (Kitchen) Garden (within shouting distance of this marker); Fence and Ditch (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Alexandria.
Credits. This page was last revised on January 27, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 26, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 112 times since then and 14 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 26, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
