Mount Vernon near Alexandria in Fairfax County, Virginia — The American South (Mid-Atlantic)
Wood That Looks Like Stone
The Mansion, constructed of wood, appears to be made of stone; an effect called rustication. The pine siding boards were cut and beveled to resemble stone blocks. After paint was applied to the boards, sand was thrown onto their wet surface to create a stone-like texture. In addition to making the Mansion appear more substantial and extensive, the sand-painted surface wore well and protected the wood siding boards.
The warm buff color of the Mansion today replicates its appearance after the last round of sand painting ordered by Washington in 1796. He instructed his farm manager, James Anderson, to use crushed sandstone from the nearby Aquia Creek, instead of the lighter colored Chesapeake Bay beach sand that was previously applied. In 2011, Mount Vernon staff reintroduced off-white paint and Aquia sand, consistent with 18th-century practice.
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Natural Resources. In addition, it is included in the Former U.S. Presidents: #01 George Washington series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1796.
Location. 38° 42.503′ N, 77° 5.191′ W. Marker is near Alexandria, Virginia, in Fairfax County. It is in Mount Vernon. Marker can be reached from the intersection of Mount Vernon Memorial
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Gardener's House (a few steps from this marker); Welcome to Mount Vernon (a few steps from this marker); Botanical Garden (within shouting distance of this marker); Upper Garden (within shouting distance of this marker); Riding Chair (within shouting distance of this marker); Kitchen (within shouting distance of this marker); Lower (Kitchen) Garden (within shouting distance of this marker); Espaliers and Cordons (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 27, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia. This page has been viewed 97 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 27, 2021, by Devry Becker Jones of Washington, District of Columbia.
