Photos of Valley Forge, DC, Mt. Vernon and Williamsburg

On the left, the house George Washington rented during the winter at Valley Forge.  On the right, replicas of the cabins the soldiers built for themselves, usually 12 men to one cabin.

Garvin wanted a creative shot, and suggested this one.  This is taken from the WW II Memorial.  Due to earthquake damage, the Washington Monument is closed for repairs.

I show this only because I like it -- a glorious day with the fall leaves and sunshine.  You might spot Garvin in the scene.  We ate lunch in this plaza after touring the White House Visitors' Center, which is in the background.  Wonderful exhibits on the presidents' families and the changes in the White House over the years.

A replica of the President's desk.  We've tried to visit or recreate as many scenes from the movies National Treasure 1 & 2 as possible. 

The Library of Congress (also in National Treasure) -- my favorite stop on our DC leg, and I think, one of my favorite buildings ever.  The artwork, mosaics, sculpture, and all the history and stories surrounding them would take days to absorb, not to mention all the books.

Mt. Vernon -- George Washington's home overlooking the Potomac.  We couldn't photograph inside, which is too bad.  You'd never believe the vibrant green of his dining room, a bright, creme de menthe shade.   Bright colors were the height of fashion and a sign of wealth.  The paint powder was ordered from England and mixed on site.  Mr. Washington took great pride in his home and was involved in every aspect of its design and decoration, including the layout of the grounds.

Another National Treasure tribute -- Mt. Vernon offers an additional tour which takes you to some spots from the movie.  We were able to go into the cellar, although those scenes were filmed on a set.  This is where Nicholas Cage comes out of hiding to join a party.

The Governor's Palace at Williamsburg.  What an amazing experience -- we could have stayed here much longer than we did, with all the craftspeople to visit, and historical events reenacted each day.

An arbor in the garden behind the Governor's Palace.

After we heard the reading of the Declaration of Independence, the fife and drum corps came through.  The Virginia Capitol is in the background.

In Williamsburg, all trades are practiced as they would have been in the 1700's -- no electricity, and using tools from the period.  This window is being made for a building at Mt. Vernon!