Parks Department

Mount Vernon Gates

George Washington lived in his family’s estate at Mount Vernon for many years after inheriting it from his half-brother Lawrence when he passed away. There, he oversaw the estate’s farms, plantation, and other operations. Some of the most historically significant gates established at Mount Vernon include the Bowling Green Gates. While these gates are primarily used as entrances, they also serve to honor the life of George Washington. Bowling Green Gate is one of the entrances at Mount Vernon and sits between the 12-acre field and the bowling green. Upon entrance, guests are provided with their first glimpse of the Mansion. The drive then meandered through the trees, eventually passing the Bowling Green Gate, circling around the stable to the South Lane, and joining the Mansion Circle. The estate was named after Edward Vernon, who was in the Royal Navy and served in Parliament. The term “bowling green” is derived from its frequent association with the turfed, circular space used for ball games popular in Europe and America. These are the gates on the beautiful, historic plantation of George Washington’s Mount Vernon, and each honors his life and legacy. This newsletter article is part of a series commemorating the America 250 Celebration and features excerpts from a speech delivered by Megan Kirk, a senior at Crimson Cliffs High School, at the opening of George Washington Plaza in April 2025.

–Parks Department

WashingtonCity.org/parks