Amelia County Historical Society

05/31/2026

Drones over Wi******er, Virginia

05/25/2026

05/24/2026

On this day in 1775, John Hancock was chosen president of the Continental Congress. He oversaw the first year of the American Revolution, failed attempts to reconcile with Great Britain, the Lee Resolution on Independence, the vote to break with Britain, and the adoption of the Declaration of Independence.

05/22/2026

[May 22] in 1802, the very first First Lady of the United States, Martha Dandridge Custis Washington died at her home at Mount Vernon. Martha's remains were placed in what is known as the Old Tomb alongside George Washington and other members of the Washington family. In the 1830s, Martha's remains, along with those of the Washington family were moved to the New Tomb.

Martha was born on June 2, 1731, in New Kent County, Virginia. In 1750, at the age of 18, she married Daniel Parke Custis, a prosperous planter, and together they had four children. In 1757, Daniel died, leaving Martha a 26-year-old widow with two surviving children. Daniel's passing left Martha with a considerable fortune, making her one of the wealthiest women in the Virginia colony.

In January of 1759, Martha married George Washington in New Kent County, VA in what would become a partnership of great historical significance. That April, Martha, George and her two children moved to Mount Vernon. In June of 1775 George wrote to Martha, "I retain an unalterable affection for you, which neither time or distance can change", a testament to the strength of their bond and her invaluable support.

Photo:
- Portrait of Martha Washington by Charles Wilson Peale, 1795.

05/21/2026

Internet picture but pretty cool!