Mary Ball Washington

Mary Ball Washington(Pine)

Mary Ball Washington (1708 – December 25, 1789) was the mother of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Born in Lancaster County, Virginia, she was the only child of Joseph Ball and his second wife, Mary Johnson. After her father's death when she was three, Mary Ball was raised by her mother in relatively modest circumstances for a member of the Virginia planter class.

Early Life

Mary Ball's early life in Virginia was marked by a series of challenges. Following her father's death, her mother struggled to manage the family's estates, eventually remarrying. Mary received a limited formal education typical of young women of her social standing during the period. In 1731, she married Augustine Washington, a widower with three children, and moved to his Pope's Creek estate in Westmoreland County.

Marriage and Family

Mary and Augustine Washington had six children together, with George Washington being the eldest. Augustine's death in 1743 left Mary a widow with five young children to raise. Despite the financial difficulties, she managed to secure a good education for her children, especially George, whom she also instilled with the values of integrity and leadership that would later define his character.

Later Years and Legacy

Mary Ball Washington remained a significant influence in her son's life until her death in 1789, just before George assumed the presidency. She lived to see the American Revolution and her son's pivotal role in it. Mary Ball Washington's legacy is often overshadowed by her son's immense achievements, but her role in shaping the character of the first President of the United States is widely acknowledged.

Throughout her life, Mary Ball Washington was known for her strong will, piety, and devotion to her family. She has been remembered in various ways, including the naming of the Mary Washington House in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where she spent her final years.

Death

Mary Ball Washington died on December 25, 1789, and was buried at the family burial ground on the Washington estate. Her death marked the end of a life that had a profound impact on the early history of the United States through her son, George Washington.