Press Release Author: Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
Industry: Entertainment
Press Release Summary: George Washington\'s Distillery is the site of a Whiskey Rebellion on August 9th & 10th!
Press Release Body: MOUNT VERNON, Va. – The Whiskey Rebellion controversy comes to Historic Mount Vernon for the first time with dramatic performances, a military encampment, militia drilling, music, open-hearth cooking, and costumed demonstrations at George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill.
On August 9-10, two days after George Washington issued a proclamation that called out the militia to enforce the law and quell the rebellion in Pennsylvania, visitors will see young men debating at the Gristmill whether to take up arms. See what happens when the irascible miller tries to convince them to stay home. Fast forward in time and meet Washington’s distiller, who reflects five years after the rebellion on how the Whiskey Rebellion solidified the laws of the country. Tour the Gristmill and Distillery as costumed workers operate both buildings. Enjoy tastes of food made from cornmeal, and purchase your own meal ground at the Gristmill. Activities are included in regular admission to George Washington’s Distillery & Gristmill, located three miles from the main Mount Vernon Estate: $4 for adults; $2 youth ages 6-11; free for children ages 5 and younger.
When President George Washington ordered up militia forces in 1794 to enforce taxation on whiskey distillers in Pennsylvania, it was one of the first tests of federal authority in U.S. history. The defense of the constitutional powers of the federal government was at stake, and gristmills, which served as community centers in the 18th century, would have been the setting for debate when people took their grain to be ground and also exchanged information. ###
Events, programs, and activities are subject to change. Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); MountVernon.org
Web Site: http://www.MountVernon.org
Contact Details: Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens PO Box 110
Public information: (703) 780-2000 info@mountvernon.org
2012
