See Martha Washington’s Amazing Quilts

Did you know that America’s first First Lady, Martha Washington (1731-1802), was a keen quilter?  In fact, there are three of Martha Washington’s amazing quilts still surviving today, and they are currently on view at Mount Vernon.  

Martha described herself as “an old-fashioned Virginia housekeeper”.  This means that she either did or supervised all jobs in the household.  For example, these would include such tasks as cleaning, cooking and gardening.  In addition, she was skilled in knitting and needlework.  

Quilting was a very popular pastime for ladies during Martha’s day, and she also practised this craft.  Three of her quilts which still survive today are the “Penn’s Treaty” quilt, the “Children’s Games” quilt top, and the “Neoclassical Swag” quilt.  The “Penn’s Treaty” quilt is the only one which Martha Washington completely pieced and quilted herself.  Read more about these three documented quilts in Mount Vernon Magazine.

Photos of all three of Martha Washington’s amazing quilts are currently on display at Mount Vernon through 14 September 2025.  What is more, the “Neoclassical Swag” quilt itself is now on view for the first time at Mount Vernon.  See more information about this exhibit.  

See more posts from RBQ.