The Historical Society of Pennsylvania (HSP) will host a free, one-day exhibit on August 3 to display many artifacts and documents related to George Washington’s personal life, military career, presidency, and legacy. On this day, visitors can see portraits of Washington by artists such as Charles Wilson Peale and Gilbert Stuart; letters from Washington to John Cadwalader concerning crossing the Delaware River and the Battle of Trenton; Washington’s pocket diary; Martha Washington’s cookbook and household journal from Philadelphia; the diary of Washington’s private secretary, Tobias Lear, who chronicled Washington’s last days and death; and even a lock of Washington’s hair!

During this special display, visitors are invited to view and read these extraordinary materials from Washington’s life from 12:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania at 1300 Locust Street in Philadelphia. Reservations are not necessary and there is no admission fee.

In addition to the on-site display, each document will be digitized and available on HSP’s website at www.hsp.org beginning in mid-August.

The George Washington document display at HSP has been organized in conjunction with the feature exhibition Discover the Real George Washington: New Views from Mount Vernon at the National Constitution Center this summer.  The exhibit provides a fresh perspective on Washington, his achievements, family, intellectual pursuits, and entrepreneurial ventures with items from Mount Vernon’s collection. 

Event details:

WHEN: Wednesday, August 3, 2011
          12:30 to 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Historical Society of Pennsylvania
           1300 Locust Street
           Philadelphia, PA  19107

ADMISSION: Free