George Washington, All-American

A recent visit to the Northern Neck of Virginia turned up interesting facts related to George Washington's desire to be considered "American" and not as the descendent of landed Englishmen. The site was George Washington's birthplace near the Potomac (and only seven miles from the birthplace of another famous Virginian, Robert E. Lee!).

Nothing remains of the original plantation except the site, but the site itself is of interest. It seems that the Washingtons managed to carve out for themselves a plantation containing the only level land with access to the Potomac River for miles. Hence, the access for shipping and receiving goods by other landowners was controlled by the Washingtons. How enterprising! How American!

Interestingly, George's original immigrant ancestor left England to escape Cromwell, an action that puts him with the Cavaliers, supporters of the king.

Now, that's irony.