Historic Kenmore - Fight for Liberty

Tea or Liberty Painting

Imagine the impassioned discussions in these rooms as this family committed to the patriot cause.

Imagine Washington persuading his brother-in-law, Fielding Lewis, to manage and finance a gunnery to arm the patriots.
Think of Mary Ball Washington's prayers for her son as he led an army against the world's mightiest empire.
Reflect on Betty Washington Lewis' worries about her sons becoming soldiers.

Liberty for all?

Tamer - one of the Lewises slaves Liberty was not an option for all. Despite their commitment to liberties for "gentlemen freeholders," many proponents of the American cause, including Washington and Lewis, were slaveholders. The American Revolution provided an opportunity for freedom to enslaved African-Americans and indentured servants in Virginia. Lord Dunmore, the Royal Governor, offered freedom to slaves and indentured servants who ran away from their "rebel" masters to fight with the British.

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