Mount Vernon near Alexandria in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Batteau Construction Project
"I shall not object to one of the Carpenters assisting Mr. Stuart in building a Batteau…"
George Washington to Anthony Whitting, January 20, 1793
The batteau constructed here is 21 feet long with a width between 6-8 feet. This vessel is typical of the skows, skiffs, and small boats used to haul goods and materials up and down the Potomac River between Washington's outlying farms, as well as supplies to and from Alexandria. Boats like this one were also crucial pieces of farm equipment used for fishing and related work on the river."
This batteau is made of white oak and cypress, and boats such as this would have been made with timber harvested from Mount Vernon's woodlands. Traditional hand tools such as planes, draw knives, and augers were utilized for this project.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Animals • Waterways & Vessels. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #01 George Washington series list. A significant historical date for this entry is January 20, 1793.
Location. 38° 42.295′ N, 77° 5.372′ W. Marker is near Alexandria, Virginia, in Fairfax County. It is in Mount Vernon. Marker can be reached from the intersection of George Washington
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. George Washington's Fisheries (here, next to this marker); Batteau Design (here, next to this marker); Punt (a few steps from this marker); Sundries Field (within shouting distance of this marker); Visionary Farmer (within shouting distance of this marker); The Potomac Watershed (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Preserving the Viewshed (about 400 feet away); Commerce and Transportation (about 400 feet away). 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 27, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 192 times since then and 20 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 27, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
