5 Resource to Help You Commemorate Washington’s Birthday

Following President George Washington’s death in 1799, his February 22 birthday became a perennial day of remembrance. To help you pay tribute to this national holiday, we’d like to share a few of our favorite Presidents’ Day resources. 

5 Resource to Help You Commemorate Washington’s Birthday

Retronaut
We thought it was about time to dispel one of the most common Washington myths out there: that he had wooden teeth.

Stop by Retronaut and you’ll actually find a photo of the dentures Dr. John Greenwood created for Washington. Contrary to common misconceptions, our first president’s false teeth were not made out of wood, but hippopotamus ivory, gold and brass.

While you’re browsing Retronaut, be sure to check out photos of Washington’s life mask.

George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Our homes say a lot about our tastes, our socio-economic status, our accomplishments and personalities. Taking a virtual field trip to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate is an excellent way for us to gain insight into the personality of one of our nation’s most iconic figures.

Discover George Washington: An Interactive Timeline
In addition to the timeline of major events in Washington’s life, you’ll also find photos of his personal belongings including his harpsichord, toothbrush, and even a bust depicting what he would have looked like at age 19. This bust was created by a team of scientists who worked backwards from laser measurements of Washington’s life mask and a sculptured bust, both done when he was 52.

The Portrait: An Interactive
The Lansdowne portrait—named after the Marquis of Lansdowne, an English supporter of American independence and the owner of the painting—is probably one of the most famous images of George Washington in existence.

Thanks to the Smithsonian, you can explore this portrait in detail, from three very different vantage points: the symbolic, the biographic, and the artistic.

Each filter highlights an element in the portrait and provides unique information and a distinct interpretation.

While you’re at the Smithsonian’s site, check out the Patriot Papers, a collection of puzzles, quizzes and fun historical features to learn about the life and times of George Washington.

The Papers of George Washington
Here you’ll find a collection of letters written to Washington as well as letters and documents written by him.  Currently there are over 135,000 documents in the project’s collection. As you browse, take note that you can customize your search by subjects including colonial life, early American culture, Washington’s friends, Mount Vernon, Native Americans, and more.