Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/george-washington-bottles-of-cherries-found-buried-mount-vernon/

Bottles of Cherries Found at George Washington's Mount Vernon Home

Archaeologists at George Washington's Mount Vernon home have made a remarkable discovery: more than 70 bottles containing cherry pits, dating back to the late 18th century, have been unearthed. This find is considered a “spectacular” discovery by the team, shedding light on the agricultural practices and consumption habits of Washington and his family. The bottles, which were found in a cluster on the grounds of Mount Vernon, provide evidence of the preservation methods used for cherries at the time. Notably, a substantial amount of cherry pits, alongside remnants of the bottles' contents, were discovered within the bottles. These preserved remains offer a glimpse into the past, allowing researchers to study the types of cherries consumed and the methods employed for their preservation. This remarkable discovery significantly enhances our understanding of the everyday life and dietary practices of one of America's founding fathers.

Summary

"The discovery of cherry pits in bottles at Mount Vernon offers a fascinating glimpse into the agricultural practices and culinary habits of George Washington and his family. These artifacts provide valuable insights into the past, revealing the methods used to preserve cherries and the types of fruit consumed in the late 18th century. This “spectacular” discovery significantly enriches our understanding of life at Mount Vernon and sheds light on the everyday experiences of one of America's most revered historical figures."

Updated at: 06.16.2024

cherries
Mount Vernon

Categories

More bottles of cherries found at George Washington's Mount Vernon home in "spectacular" discovery

Archaeologists discovered 35 glass bottles of the preserved fruit buried in a cellar, Mount Vernon officials announced on Thursday.