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Birth
Martha Washington was born on June 2nd, 1731. She was born in New Kent County, Virginia. She grew up along wealthy plantation families. -
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Martha Washingtom
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Marriage
At the age of 18 Martha was married to Daniel Parke Curtis. He was 20 years older to her. He was an heir to a neighboring plantation. -
Death of family
While she was married to Daniel, she bore 4 children. 2 of her children died as infants. Her husband died in July 1757. This made her a very wealthy widow. -
2nd Marriage
Martha met colonel George Washington at a Williamsburg, Virginia. They had a wedding in 1759. Martha and her two remaining children moved to Mount Vernon. -
Helping the continental army
Martha supported an effort to enlist women to help and volunteer for the continental army. She wrote to the wives of all the colonial governors. She asked them to gather necessary supplies for the continental army. -
Valley Forge
Martha travelled to be at Washington's side during the brutal season at Valley Forge. She was the social center for visiting military leaders and foreign dignitaries. She also provided care for injured and exhausted soldiers. -
Son's Death
After the war, Martha's son died. She convinced his widow to allow her and George to raise their two youngest children. Their names were Eleanor (Nelly) and George. -
George's Presidency
After George's election in 1789 he moved Martha and the family to New York City. Her job included being a hostess to important guests and managing her own household. She established traditions of holding formal dinners on Thursday and public receptions on Friday. -
Social Duties
Vice President's wife Abigail Adams often hung out with Martha. Every Friday night her and Abigail organized tea parties open to 'respectable people'. She often received public scrutiny as a hostess. -
Moving the Capital
When the capital was moved to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Martha was much happier. They spent most of George's term in office in Philadelphia. Martha continued to explore her duties as the first lady while she was here. -
George's Death
George died on December 14th, 1799. George died of pneumonia he was aggravated by the weakening of the immune system and he could not fight the disease. After the loss of her husband she busied herself with needlework on the third floor of their house. -
Death
Martha died on May 22nd, 1802. She died in Mount Vernon, Virginia. She died of health issues and old age.
