In 1774, two years before she famously sewed the first American flag, Betsy Ross crafted something entirely different for George Washington: bed hangings for his Mount Vernon estate. This remarkable connection was uncovered by Mount Vernon historians, who discovered documentation of the transaction in Washington’s personal ledger. The commission highlights the trust Washington placed in Betsy’s exceptional craftsmanship and offers a fascinating glimpse into her life before the Revolution.
Today, the Betsy Ross House is bringing this story to life by recreating miniature versions of the bed hangings in using authentic 18th-century techniques to be used in Mount Vernon’s hands-on educational programs. This collaboration with Mount Vernon not only honors Betsy’s legacy as a skilled upholsterer but also provides visitors with a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship of the colonial era. Throughout the coming weeks, the project will unfold with new updates and insights into the intricate process.
Stay tuned: Project updates with explanations of each part of the bed will be posted on this page and on our social media channels! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook so that you don’t miss a stitch!