Martha Washington was America’s first First Lady. She was the first to define the role of the President’s wife.

She was a rich girl. Her father was a planter. Martha was taught to read and write. She learned to dance and ride horseback. She was slim with brown hair and hazel eyes. At age eighteen, Martha married Daniel Custis. Martha and Daniel had four children. Only two children lived to be adults. Daniel died eight years later.

Martha Custis was a rich widow when she married George Washington. They moved to George's Mount Vernon estate. During the Revolution, Martha joined George at his winter camps. She tended to her husband’s needs. She nursed the sick. Martha mended uniforms and knit socks.

At the end of the war, the Washingtons returned to Mount Vernon. After her son’s death, Martha raised her two grandchildren.

When George became president, Martha and children moved with him. The White House was not yet built. The Washingtons lived in New York City and Philadelphia. Martha hosted many parties and events. She called on important ladies. She was very kind to war veterans. Martha was known as a good hostess.

The Washingtons retired to Mount Vernon. Martha welcomed invited guests. She was kind to travelers who wanted to meet her famous husband.

After George died in 1799, Martha moved to an attic room in the house. She was very sad. She only wanted to be with family members.

Martha Washington set a fine example for future First Ladies.