Period
1813-1856
Ferry Farm
Location
Notables
National Historic Landmark
HISTORICAL LEGACY
Ferry Farm is George Washington’s childhood home. He spent his early life there, honing his resilience, work ethic and character that would later define him as a leader. He lived there with his mother and father, developing a passion for agriculture, and later taking on the property when he turned 21. There are no known original sketches of this house and little descriptive evidence exists.
George Washington
PROJECT OVERVIEW
MCWB was hired with reimagining and rebuilding George Washington’s childhood home, along with the servant quarters and storehouse on the property. This interpretive reconstruction was thoroughly informed by archaeological evidence and historical precedents drawn from a variety of sources, ensuring authenticity and respect for the site’s rich history.
RESEARCH & DOCUMENTATION
An intensive report was conducted to uncover all evidence that may relate back to the character and build of Ferry Farm. MCWB collaborated with The George Washington Foundation to obtain information regarding the exterior and interior of the house. Structures from the same period were referenced to support the imagination of what once was Ferry Farm.
SCHEMATIC DESIGN
The firm developed designs that accurately reflected the findings from the research phase, bringing the vision of Ferry Farm to life. While designed centuries after the original, these plans adhered to modern building standards. To preserve the historic character of the house, modern elements were thoughtfully concealed and incorporated into a separate auxiliary structure, ensuring the authenticity of the site remained intact.
Ferry Farm Site
CONSTRUCTION
George Washington’s childhood home, Ferry Farm, now stands in Fredericksburg, VA and is open for tours. Finished versions of the servants’ quarters and store house completed the historical fabric of the property. A traditional, modern structure, with great historic significance.
