Many sites claim “George Washington slept here,” but only one can claim that the first president of the United States was born there.

George Washington Birthplace National Monument is a farm on the banks of the Potomac River in northern Virginia. When Washington was born here in 1732, it was known as Popes Creek Plantation. He lived on the plantation as an infant and later returned as a teenager to learn the art of surveying. In later years, the farm was renamed Wakefield.

The home where Washington was born burned in 1779, but an outline of the original structure can be seen at the site. The Memorial House and Colonial Kitchen, built in 1931, are not replicas but recreate the type of accommodations Washington’s fairly prosperous farming family might have enjoyed. Both buildings are furnished with authentic period pieces.

The site includes the Washington family cemetery and the Living Colonial Farm. You’ll see the same kinds of livestock and crops that the Washington family raised, including tobacco.

From the picnic area, you can take an easy one-mile nature hike through the grounds. Walking is also permitted along the beach, although swimming is not.

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