John Washington, the immigrant, arrived in Westmoreland County circa 1656. He established a tobacco plantation which would support his family for several centuries. On this and neighboring Northern Neck plantations, a quality of life developed which somehow inspired men of the succeeding generations to greatness.
By 1664, John Washington and his plantation were prospering. He was elected to the House of Burgesses and was actively involved in affairs of the parish and county. The parish name was changed to Washington in his honor.
By 1720, John’s grandson, Augustine, was building the manor house, later to be called “Wakefield,” in which his son George would be born in 1732. George spent his formative, youthful years between “Wakefield,” and “Mt. Vernon” while his father was seeking other business opportunities in these areas.
While at “Wakefield,” George learned surveying skills with his neighbor and life long friend, Thomas Marshall. In their plantation environment he became educated and skilled not only in surveying but also horsemanship, agricultural production, money management, social graces, political affairs, military matters, and a lifestyle of polite manners befitting a gentleman.