Mount Vernon Research Historian Mary V. Thompson discusses the Virginia slave system that was used on the plantations that George Washington grew up on.  She explains how Washington first became a slave owner upon the death of his father when George was only 11.    She discusses his marriage to Martha Dandridge Custis and the laws regarding the slaves of a widow.  Thompson talks about how Washington's military service impacted his management and philosophy on slavery.  She discusses his fierce temper and his approach to managing a plantation.  She explains how the Washington's maneuvered around a Pennsylvania law to avoid the situation where their slaves living with them in Philadelphia could sue for their freedom.  Thompson covers the story of West Ford and contends that he was not fathered by George Washington although many of his descendants claim that parentage.  She talks about the special relationship between Washington and his personal slave servant Billy Lee and the manner in which George Washington freed his slaves in his will.  She finishes with a discussion on how Mount Vernon has interpreted slavery over the years.

HOST:  Rob Mellon

FEATURED BREW:  George Washington's recipe for small beer

BOOK:  "The Only Unavoidable Subject of Regret"
https://www.amazon.com/Only-Unavoidable-Subject-Regret-Washington/dp/0813941849

MUSIC:  Bones Fork
https://bonesfork.com/