Enoch Wood, Bust: George Washington (1732-1799), ca. 1818. Earthenware. Bequest of Charles Allen Munn, 1924.56.

As commander-in-chief of the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, George Washington attempted to fortify New York City against the British army. New York City fell, but Washington’s command helped the Continental Army win the war, and on April 30, 1789, George Washington traveled from his home on Cherry Street to Federal Hall to take the first oath of office. There is no more iconic figure in American history than George Washington, our first president and most famous Founding Father.

Exhibitions

Taking the Oath: The First Presidential Inauguration 
Lafayette’s Return to Washington’s America
DiMenna Children's History Museum: George Washington’s First Inauguration kiosk 

Public Programs

George Washington Night 
George Washington’s New York walking tour 

Audio/Video

Audio: George Washington and Leadership 
Audio: George Washington
Audio tour: George Washington’s Inaugural Chair 
Audio tour: Federal Hall Balustrade from 1789 inauguration 
Audio Tour: George Washington’s Valley Forge Camp Bed 
Video: George Washington's Inaugural Chair
Video: Federal Hall Balustrade from 1789 inauguration
Video: George Washington's Valley Forge Camp Bed

Collections

George Washington Museum Collections