In 1837, George Washington's Remains Were Disinterred. Here's What Was in the Casket.

[@rossriley3818]

I have a bit of family history with this event. My great grandfather was at this happening as a child or so the story was told to me. According to the story there was an old black man, maybe a slave at that time but certainly a slave on Washington’s plantation as a child. He was there to ID the body (a formality I’m sure). The old man viewed the body and declared “yes sir that’s the masta”. This is the first time I’ve been able to find a record of the event as I had tried under reinterment as opposed to disinterment. Thank you for the great coverage of this little known bit of history.

[@ajkalwaysneedsmoreinfo.576]

Very interesting, thank you for sharing

[@loydevan1311]

Thank you for sharing your family history.

[@brianpress1392]

Yes, Very Interesting, 🙏👍👍👍

[@robmiller3204]

Thank you for sharing 🙏 our countries history is so intriguing

[@syndahra]

This is why I watch these youtube history channels....every now and then you find a true gem shining bright. What an amazing story for you and your family.

[@sharon946]

I visited Mt. Vernon 62 years ago and saw the sarcophagus of Washington. It was a great experience.

[@carikshawn4201]

I visited Mt. Vernon about 25 years ago and also saw the sarcophagus of our first President. I was SO HUMBLED seeing it.

[@fearlessleader1436]

I visited about the same time as you. It is a memory I shall never forget.

[@julietrask7497]

I was at Mount Vernon in 1976. So fascinating.

[@Bob12345-o]

I visited Mount Vernon and viewed George Washington's burial vault about 10 years ago. I also had lunch in the restaurant in addition to the tour through the house and grounds. I recommend anyone who has the opportunity to visit Mount Vernon. You will not be disappointed.

[@luv2luv720]

My visit was somewhere around 35 years ago. I went while in elementary school. Then again, 20ish years ago.

[@heyfitzpablum]

Loved hearing the description of the Great Man. Washington was an imperfect human being as we all are, but he rose to greatness at times when it was important. RIP President Washington, we owe you a great deal.

[@kimberlyrogers9953]

You have absolutely ZERO idea what you are talking about. He didn’t START the crap and corruption, but he certainly cemented it. Your bovine lauding of that egotistical psycho makes me afraid for your children, because obviously critical thinking is NOT part of your repertoire

[@nitasheehan2704]

George Washington was one of the greatest men in all of history.

[@bluzzedude8111]

I grew up in Pittsburgh and there's an amusement park there called "Kennywood" and there's a train ride. Halfway through the ride you can look down on the Monongahela river at the exact spot where Washington and General Braddock were ambushed by the French. Braddock was killed and buried there for decades until they moved him. Washington barely got away.

[@nathueil1]

Would that be a new deal?🤭

[@stephensdygert7600]

​​​@@nitasheehan2704If revolution and servile insurrection is biblically wrong. How would a person be considered great, by talking up violence aganst his King. He became a multimillionaire off slavery.

[@goofygirl1311]

I've been to Mount Vernon numerous times and I don't recall ever learning that George Washington's remains had been disinterred way back in 1837. Thank you for sharing this story!

[@sd906238]

When we were there they told us they were originally in a small red brick crypt that is near by. The red brick one was falling apart. They were moved to the nice crypt that they are in now.

[@direfranchement]

We were definitely told that the Washington’s remains had been moved when we toured Mount Vernon in middle school in the late 90s.

[@REVNUMANEWBERN]

You got a crappy guide or you wasn't listening

[@goofygirl1311]

@@direfranchement Then we were probably told that, too. For some reason it didn't resonate with me back then. I'm glad I saw this video.

[@goofygirl1311]

@@REVNUMANEWBERN The guides at Mount Vernon are all wonderful. I'm sure it was just me not paying close enough attention!

[@cgf2018]

How I admire President Washington! Here in Boston, there is a fabulous statue of him atop his steady steed in our Public Garden. Often when I walk by I say a prayer or shed a tear that our present day USA has so few men or women like him with courage, character and caring! God Bless our first President. By the way, he and his family lived in a beautiful home in nearby Cambridge during the Revolutionary War.

[@douglasparise3986]

Yes,I live not far from Washington's crossing and other historical sites of the revolution, if which there are many in NJ. Also had the opportunity to see the sarcophagus at Mt Vernon.

[@marydbaker]

@@douglasparise3986Washington’s Crossing is a special place. I’m in Norristown area. I pass by several places where he stayed a month or a night or two during the low points of the war before Valley Forge. I think of him often and thank God for him.

[@beccagee5905]

Is there still an area in Massachusetts called Braintree? That's where my ancestors first settled over 150 years before we became a nation.

[@cgf2018]

@@beccagee5905 Yes, I live in Quincy MA, where the two Adams presidents were born and are buried. Originally, this land was called Braintree. There is still a town called Braintree which is south of Quincy. This city is named after the Quincy family, wealthy landowners. Dorothy Quincy married John Hancock and they are buried together in Boston. I hope this helped a bit.

[@scottsand2317]

@@cgf2018wow that’s really cool 😎. Thanks

[@tacraling]

As someone who runs a small KZbin history channel in the UK, I want to congratulate you on your discovery of this document. It's one of those moments you dream of! This a fascinating story. I never knew that Washington's coffin had even been opened. You have a great channel, and I have been very happy to subscribe. 🙂

[@melaniesmith1313]

I checked out your channel, and subscribed. 🙂

[@tacraling]

@melaniesmith1313 Thank you very much indeed for your message and for subscribing. It is greatly appreciated! I hope you will enjoy the channel, and please leave comments whenever you can. 🙂

[@FaithnGod1558]

@@tacralingpretty cool channel mate. Add another subscriber!

[@tacraling]

@@FaithnGod1558 Thank you very much indeed, that's greatly appreciated! I hope you will enjoy the channel. I post a "Short" film most days and a full video about once a week. All comments are always welcome. Thanks again! 👍🙂

[@philunderwood8553]

Lincoln, too, was disinterred in the early twentieth century I believe.

[@ffwife2317]

So incredibly interesting. Once a day with a tour group at Mt. Vernon they open the mausoleum and lay a wreath at Washington's tomb and ask the youngest child who knows it to recite the pledge of allegience. Many years ago, my brother assisted laying the wreath and my the. 5 year old daughter put her hand over her heart and recited the pledge perfectly. She still has a very clear memory of this.

[@REVNUMANEWBERN]

LOL, Washington & many other Presidents along with the actual American Revolutionary solders NEVER pledged allegiance to a U.S. flag, WHY, look it up, WHEN & by WHO wrote it, it was written BY A SOCIALIST

[@J.B.z_BBQ]

Wow! That’s amazing, a true patriot she is. God bless you and your family forever.

[@Pack.Leader]

What an amazing experience. Thank you for sharing.

[@caittails]

I don’t know why, but I just had the image of him in the afterlife being so confused at first as to why people were saying this random thing he’s never heard over his grave. 😂 I wonder how long it might have taken him to be like “I guess this pledge thing must be important to them.”

[@johnschuh8616]

Congratulations to your daughter and to her worthy parents.

[@sherrymaze2834]

My husband's great-great-grandfather, Col.William Grayson, had a great personal relationship with General George Washington. He was his aide-de-camp and is mentioned many times in George Washington's Collection of Diaries.

[@jackel99]

My gosh! My 4th great grandfather fought in the RW (Sons of the Amer Rev member), and he was in his late teens and early 20's. His grandson, my 2nd great grandfather was born in 1830.

[@jeffwarren6906]

Wow , what an awesome piece of history to have in your lineage . Just imagine what Col. Grayson would think of the reverence and respect given to Washington and the Colonel today . Thank you for sharing this with us ..

[@troyjackson3164]

That’s cool my great great great grandfather was General George Washington secretary who signed the ratification of the US Constitution with General George Washington after the Revolutionary war. William Jackson secretary documented on the document.

[@ptsmith4660]

my great great grandfather picked a potato in Ireland and said to his family, "nice tater"

[@CB-bk9xj]

@@ptsmith4660oh my gosh! You are so funny! Just the most hilarious joke ever made…

[@robertschumann7737]

"Going to a library was a real treat." You sir are a wildman and my kind of guy!!

[@jamesrobiscoe1174]

I loved libraries since before I was of school age, when I would go with my mother and aunt to one in our area, where a woman would read stories to the other children who were also there with a parent. We called it "Library School." Even in today's electronic world, there is nothing quite as satisfying as a visit to a library. Truly, one of the marks of a great civilization.

[@acgsmith5937]

I've gone hog wild in my town hall vault looking up people who live in my old house from centuries past. Then again, I'm easy to please.

[@dannotary951]

Well said , Mr. Bill Murray from the movie stripes

[@josephbingham1255]

I was in an education class when each was asked and expected to give a response to the question as to who the greatest American was. They were fishing for the same answer expected as Martin Luther King. When I responded that "Without a doubt it was George Washington" I was immediately verbally jumped upon. "He had SLAVES!" yelled one black woman. Calmly I agreed "Yes, and he's still the greatest American that ever lived." Of course he still is!

[@LTPottenger]

Whoever it is, certainly not a politician.

[@josephbingham1255]

@@LTPottenger Washington was the Commander of the Continental Army that fought for eight years. Post Revolution he was offered Kingship of America by disgruntled officers who wanted to stage a coup. He turned this down with "An abhorrent idea. Remove these thoughts from your minds!" He could have been a king but turned it down. He was chosen President as he was the most trusted man to not misuse his power until a working government could be established. Martin Luther King Jr. had his good points. But if you want to know why his record was sealed for 25 years and will very likely be renewed and sealed for another 25 years locate a copy of The Walls Came Tumbling Down by Robert Abernaty a fellow preacher and civil rights activist who knew him. There is no comparison as to who benefited America more.

[@ninaappelt9001]

All land owners with working farms and ranches, slaves were the hands working those fields.

[@ladavidson9269]

And 19th century politicians had WIVES who had NO VOTE & were treated as property. SO, therefore we are going to dis half the population? Please get over the slave thing.. folks have been enslaved since time began. Given a choice to be an 1850s slave or an 1870s chinaman build the TCRR , I'd certainly be picking cotton rather than suicide blasting the train passes.

[@0116Lori]

​@@ninaappelt9001Including black land owners.

[@Paul-lm5gv]

Fascinating! I enjoyed your excitement of telling the story as much as the story! George Washington's drummer boy - Alexander Milliner - is buried with 80 other Revolutionary War veterans in historic Mt. Hope Cemetery in Rochester, NY - the first municipal cemetery in the United States. Milliner died in 1865 at the age of 104!

[@kitrichardson2165]

Imagine, living through both the revolutionary war, and the Civil War. The two most significant events in all of American history.

[@thommysides4616]

I'm glad he willed himself to live until the end of the Civil war.

[@beccagee5905]

My great great uncle lived through WWI, WWII, the Korean War, and the Viet Nam war. He walked everywhere, and didn't drive. He only ate game he shot himself. He was really old when I was in middle school, and he lived for about ten years more. We would see him walking, stop to ask him if he wanted a ride he'd say no. So my dad would tell him we were going to Dairy Queen to get a milk shake, he was ready to ride then. 😂

[@MikeL-oo2ht]

So Milliner saw the birth of our country and (almost) the death of it during the Civil War . You'd wonder what his thoughts were about so much history.

[@seanrcollier]

​@@beccagee5905 It was so cruel that you were really taking him to the vet

[@northernpines]

The same occurred to Lincoln in 1901 when he was disinterred for burial in the newly refurbished tomb. A young boy of 12, Fleetwood Lindley, who was summoned for the historic event by his father, said Lincoln was remarkably well preserved. His skin was dark and "the color of an old saddle" but his clothes and bow tie were still preserved. He said he instantly recognized the corpse as Lincoln.

[@lisanadile4688]

Librarian here: inviting everyone to visit your local library and see the treasures we have waiting for you!

[@imdeplorable2241]

You are so right. I spent hours, DAYS, in Rare Books and Manuscripts sections of libraries from Albany to Poughkeepsie to Newburgh, NY, researching my genealogy. I encourage everyone to go into those sections or rooms and look around or read an old book or manuscript. It is absolutely fascinating.

[@mosestaylor-ju6we]

Amen

[@rse4379]

Treasure maps as well.

[@Malcontender]

I love your wholesome little reminder.

[@benjaminkay4364]

You have some historical letters?

[@bluzzedude8111]

This is incredibly interesting! It's amazing that his body, being that they didn't embalm people in those days, was so well preserved. I read once that when Lincoln's coffin was opened and viewed by his son to confirm it was his father after being hidden for decades, his body was in an almost perfect state as well! Fascinating history!

[@jackhowland3737]

Lincoln was embalmed numerous times on during his various viewings after his death. They had to keep him looking good and odor free as he was displayed across the Country. At that time it was typically with a mixture containing arsenic. That's a poison. His body is probably still pretty good shape. It was near perfect when the Coffin was opened in 1901.

[@Mykee1997]

In Lincoln's case, he was embalmed (first US president to be embalmed) on multiple train stops through multiple cities from DC to Springfield IL. Thus there is presumably, the reason for his body staying so well preserved when it was viewed for the last time, in Sept 26,1901.

[@charlesyoung7436]

I believe that an elderly man appeared on the "I've Got a Secret" TV show in the 1950's to eventually say that he was the last person to see Abraham Lincoln, when his coffin was opened in 1901. He was a young boy at the time, and his father was involved with the transfer of the sarcophagus to a reinforced resting place, as there had been threats to steal the body (they checked to see that this had not already happened).

[@jimbo42521]

Historical records at the national archives tell us that Lincoln was embalmed with a highly toxic lead-arsenic solution. It gives perfect results, but the fumes are immensely hazardous to the embalmer. A few years later the use of formaldehyde became the accepted standard.

[@oleradiodudea.m.4735]

@@Mykee1997 A national park ranger assigned to the home of Mr. Lincoln in Springfield told me that the air around the body got more and more undesirable as the body went from town to town on the train.

[@stevepark9308]

Fascinating description of the long ago events, written in a language that sadly no longer represents our own. Return to us, these intellectuals and men of character and vision.

[@alexstokowsky6360]

I was surprised I found the language so easy to understand and read, but I am 68 years old and penmanship was a "thing" in my day.

[@Malcontender]

@@alexstokowsky6360 Eventually, they'll stop teaching children how to write entirely by citing the ubiquity of some new tech that makes the pen "redundant" . Then, the power goes out and it's _bedlam_ .

[@jackstoltz1379]

Well you cant blame people for not talking so lovely no a days. Hollywood and the music industry pushes different crap out every four years to change us

[@wjreid12]

What a fascinating story! Like other commenters, I had no idea that Washington's body was disinterred. The more I learn of his life, the more impressed I am that, despite human failings, he was truly a "great man" such as we no longer see today.

[@jakurdadov6375]

Quite simply, without George Washington, there would be no United States. His many selfless actions during the War and his later many selfless actions in the creation of the Executive branch would not, could not, have been executed by any of his contemporaries. We are far richer for his having served us.

[@JamesAdams-ev6fc]

A selection process brings great leaders to the forefront during difficult time, at least in a free society. Consider Eisenhower for example. And we may be about to witness this selection process in operation once again.

[@jakurdadov6375]

@@JamesAdams-ev6fc It can also exclude terrible and dangerous non-leaders, too. A selection process we will soon see.

[@JamesAdams-ev6fc]

@@jakurdadov6375 I agree with you, and I think the Constitution is up to the days that lie ahead.

[@leighc2982]

What is all this talk about human failings?? We could literally say that about every person who has ever walked the planet. Give it and George a rest.

[@kathykit7629]

As a history lover, this was truly fascinating. The research and discovery of the letter must have been a real thrill for you. It certainly would have been for me.

[@curtgomes]

I had no idea that Washington was disinterred in 1837. This is truly a fascinating piece of history. George Washington a man who rose to the occasion and left us all in a better place.

[@STho205]

The River tomb was abandoned in favor of the marble mausoleum nearer the mansion on the hill, due to concerns of flooding and the decay of the structure. It would appear that they moved the remains just in time as the original coffin was collapsing. The original Federal plan was to bury Washington in the basement of the Capitol Rotunda with a sight glass in the center of the floor to allow citizens to look down onto the chamber. This smacked too much of royalty for Washington and his last wishes were to be buried at home.

[@TheS197King]

​@STho205 got to admit that that would have been awsome to have that for his fellow citizens to pay him respects.

[@STho205]

We still can, but at Mount Vernon, now the house is a public museum. I go about once every year in the late Spring.

[@marciasiehr6561]

Didinterred

[@greggb1416]

Mr. Coddington, I discovered this video as a result of KZbin’s recommendation. I so enjoyed it, however I can’t seem to find the words to express how I felt hearing you read this fabulous piece of history. You certainly have a special air about you, in your delivering this bit of history. I am now a subscriber. Thank you sir.

[@dianeatpeace337]

If you have a chance -- check out the publication 'Military Images' magazine which Mr. Coddington publishes. It is full of otherwise lost- to-time fascinating photographs and stories bringing the history of our country alive.

[@greggb1416]

@@dianeatpeace337 will do.., thank you

[@kathyruder5301]

The command of the English language that journalists had in the past is amazing. Seeing a photo of the letter--amazing as well!

[@user-dc2ed2dm8d]

A joy to listen to the newspaper account.

[@maxjones-rs4ek]

I visited Mt. Vernon. My takeaway was how the actual home itself was not near what I envisioned. President Washingtons bedroom was very small, in my opinion. A fairly large bed he passed away on was big for the room. The interior of the house was much smaller than I imagined. Standing on the back porch overlooking the river I tried to put myself in his shoes at what he might have been thinking standing there. Great experience to see it all. Very moving.

[@sheldor5312]

Noticed the same during my visit. Expected some huge grand home.

[@hippymama100]

For the time and place, it was a very grand home. When you consider that many Americans at that time were living in one room cabins or sod huts, you see the luxury in it.

[@ctrotter5447]

I think because they kept the house and rooms warm with fireplaces and wood burning stoves is why the spaces were smaller. Plus the whole pre-modern lifestyle was so different and the homes would reflect that. For instance, they would have valued and invested in their horses and other animals and food gardens rather than a fancy bedroom or a big recreation room with a pool table, etc.

[@johnschuh8616]

I had a similar experience. He was, after all, a farmer who loved his home and his work. There was also his desk and I could imagine him leaving it and going out to do his rounds. It was doing such as these that he caught cold and then was done to death by inept doctoring. They say he was while aloft, genius to a whole range of visitors who came to Mount Vernon. But then that was the way of Virginian planters of that time.

[@bryanspindle4455]

As someone who has lived near the historic triangle of Virginia my whole life, l always admired Washington and was interested in his life and what he did for his country. I live within a few miles of Williamsburg where he often visited and where he married Martha and not far from Gloucester, Virginia where his grandparents lived and Yorktown where Cornwallis surrendered to Washington ending the Revolutionary War in 1781. I have visited Mount Vernon five times in my 67 years.

[@bryanspindle4455]

@johnwalter9696 Certainly

[@TheBatugan77]

​@johnwalter9696 Yes. Did for our country. That's what he said. That's what he meant.

[@deborl7278]

It's written in history WHAT HE DID FOR OUR COUNTRY ! Well known stories shared from generations to generations of blessed history and incredible strength of a man that is rarely found in men these days. IF WE WOULD ONLY LEARN FROM HISTORY . Would change ALOT of attitude in folks these days. We certainly do NOT enjoy or have not enjoyed the life we have in the USA WITHOUT ,what our founding fathers went through to establish .

[@elizabeth3143]

​@johnwalter9696, without George Washington we wouldn't have a country. He was the Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, which gained our independence from Great Britain. He was instrumental in the creation of our Constitution. And as the first President of the United States, he set many of the precedents we still adhere to today. No one did more for the creation of our country than George Washington.

[@elizabeth3143]

@johnwalter9696 , Sorry, all I can see that you wrote was, "did for our country?" That's what I responded to. Didn't see any previous comments.

[@DelaniaAndTheDogs]

Nice. This gentleman is so pleased to see the letter he’s beaming. Love his reaction and his retelling of history.

[@ClifffsVictory]

If you visit Charleston, SC you can tour the “Heyward-Washington House” where the President stayed during his “Southern Tour” in May of 1791 and the “Great Hall” of the “Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon” where Washington danced with the ladies of the city. The buildings are wonderfully preserved and open to the public for a modest fee. City hall also has a fantastic original painting of Washington (second floor City Council Chamber) available to the public during the week (no charge). If you are a history buff, you will be amazed by Charleston.

[@ssherrierable]

There are houses all over the east coast that claim Washington slept there during the war

[@dialdude]

Incredible. Not only did Washington create much of our foundation as a nation, but he continues to affect us, particularly in this time of need. This letter, if read carefully, slowly, and with much consideration of when it was written, can have the effect of reinforcing us. Who we are, where we are, how WE have affected so much of our world and even WHY we created this country. Thank you so much for sharing this important event and document. God Bless.

[@jake1776]

This was stunning. I just purchased a historic revolutionary war home in South Carolina- colonel Benjamin Herndon is buried with his family in the backyard. I find your video fascinating because the deeper I delve into the history of Mollihon Plantation, (Col. Herndon’s granddaughter was the wife of SC Gov. William Gist who started the civil war), the more I find it fascinating just how much the leaders of the confederate cause most certainly were one and the same in carrying forward George Washington’s legacy. At rose hill, Gists house which still exists, a portrait of Washington still hangs on the wall.

[@deborl7278]

I find this historic findings just absolutely incredible. Our youth should be taught truth from fiction in history classes across our nation.

[@DebbieAppelhans]

Awesome thanks for the history 😊

[@leftseat30]

Strange question....when you buy a home with burials in the backyard....what is required during showing, closing, etc???

[@jake1776]

@@leftseat30 I am not sure if there is a mandatory disclosure requirement. It wouldn't have been necessary as a "requirement" in this case as the buried colonel and his family were actually a prominent feature of the advertising. (not hidden at all). Regarding ownership, I am required to allow the public to access this private cemetery if any member of the public gives a written request.

[@dianatrott5359]

Thank you for sharing such a precious story and document about the first and courageous President of The United States of America. You told it with dignity and honor. Much appreciated.

[@utuber13x]

From myself on behalf of my generation rest in peace President George Washington , I wish you were here today, we and the Republic need you now once again, when justices no longer up hold the Constitution, hopefully we can muster in your spirit once again, for the cause that you once bravely lead, a great Republic if we can keep it.

[@scottsand2317]

Amen 🙏 Thank you

[@Freedom27401]

Things are looking up.

[@KenG557]

I've always found it interesting that Washington, the Father of our country, is entombed in such an humble setting at Mt. Vernon.

[@ruthhamilton4882]

The way I understand it, he loved it there and would want it this way.

[@cisio64123]

@@ruthhamilton4882 Agreed . He was a humble man who only wanted to be at home with his family so this is probably exactly the way he would want to rest in peace.

[@Snakebite-h4s]

His wishes.

[@edmchenry3454]

That humble grave is an apt description of the idea on which our country was founded....NO KING! EVER!

[@Jesusiscominglookup]

I have found hidden from history, the relationship between Lees and Washingtons. I think America really needs to know how far back the relationship between the two families go it’s absolutely amazing.

[@scottsand2317]

Can you recommend some books please

[@jacquelyndixon2788]

I don't think it is hidden. Always taught with the history of Arlington Cemetery.

[@BillyColeII-dr6dk]

Gen "Lighthorse" Harry Lee was one of Washington's top generals....Lighthorse Harry Lee was Robert E. Lee's father.

[@jgunther3398]

It's not hidden history at Washington And Lee University!

[@Jay-bo6jm]

I thought it was going to take 4 decades for you to get to the letter....

[@susanheston4483]

Thank you for the history lesson. This was something they didn't tell us in school, many years ago. Wonderfully done as well.

[@petermendoza1170]

Great background on this beloved man. Thank you.

[@texanasimmons1761]

In April 2002, my late husband served as an honor guard for the reinterrment of Genl. Joseph B. Johnson in Fairfield, Texas. He had been buried, with his wife and son on their family farm. But his last wish was to be buried in the Fairfield, Texas cemetery. My husband was a Civil War re-enactor and his group were asked to disinterr the general and move his grave. They disinterred the general, his wife and son and given a full period reburial.

[@tubularfrog]

Amazing to hear the published article of the disinterment of Washington, and how well written the article was as compared to what you could expect in modern times. Thank you for sharing your discovery.

[@thommysides4616]

I'm a 63 year old American Christian artist, and preacher who is living in South Africa. Back home in Ohio, I remember riding my bike as a kid to the local thrift store. Way in the back along the entire wall was a giant bookshelf. Hundreds of old second hand books were there and each book was only a dollar a piece.... no matter the subject or author. About once a month I would make the 2 mile journey to go on my antique book hunt. The widow lady who owned the shop was constantly bringing in new books she had bought from estate sells and at auctions. I doubt there was another young kid like me, who was more into buying books published in the 1840's, 50's and beyond.... Most kids my age were more into buying comic books..... although I did buy my share of those too.....used....for 5 cents a copy.... which I purchased at another local store owned by still another widow woman. I guess my grass cutting money and money I got collecting coke bottles....helped to keep the local widows employed...ha ha! When I moved here to South Africa many years ago I had to leave most of my belongings behind, but I just had to bring a few of those precious books I had bought as a child growing up. I always loved learning about America's past and people. I respect you for going the extra mile and traveling to the library so we could all enjoy what you found. Like me....as a kid.... pedalling that bike two long miles there and back, so I could buy an old worn out and forgotten book with some money I had made cutting grass. You.... reminded me of myself. Going treasure hunting.....and oh what a find you made! God bless you my friend. Keep doing what your doing!!! "Here is some of what I'm doing now, over here in South Africa: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJ3OqoOvYtGdm7c

[@JohnAllen-gg1oz]

Mowing lawns and collecting empty pop bottles brought back fun memories of long ago. I would live my 40s and 50s childhood over again in a second.

[@MrBoho7]

I can see myself taking quite the deep dive on your channel. This format of learning history is so interesting to me. Physically seeing a historian attempting to piece the stories together. I love it.

[@lifeonthecivilwarresearchtrail]

Thanks! If you'd like to see how I incorporated this information into the published story, see "Blessed Martyr, Vile Traitor: John Augustine Washington III, Mount Vernon’s last family owner and aide to Gen. Robert E. Lee": www.militaryimagesmagazine-digital.com/2023/11/14/blessed-martyr-vile-traitor-john-augustine-washington-iii-mount-vernons-last-family-owner-and-aide-to-gen-robert-e-lee/

[@MrBoho7]

@lifeonthecivilwarresearchtrail that was a great read, thanks for the link!

[@lifeonthecivilwarresearchtrail]

Thank you. Fascinating research project and storytelling opportunity. @@MrBoho7

[@VIKING-SON]

I'd like to personally thank you for sharing this story and doing the research to uncover it. It is amazing you wouldn't know or realize any of this, unless someone like yourself brought it to light.

[@lifeonthecivilwarresearchtrail]

Thanks. I'm fascinated by the countless stories from our past, most forgotten, and all revealing about who we are.

[@syndahra]

What an amazing find! I would be over the moon to see a document like that. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@davidtucker3008]

I found it necessary to watch the video a second time to sort out all the pertinent facts of the story, but i think i've got it now. Can't understand the comment on the absence of clothing, you know he wasn't buried naked, not even poor people were done that way. Any clothing either rotted away or fell/slid off the body when they were maneuvering the coffin around. I had heard or read years ago that his body was reinterred in a new coffin at some point but i never heard any details. A facinating short story about a man i hold in the highest esteem.

[@petermacmillan6756]

Some people were buried with a shroud, but never naked, unless they were being deliberately disrespected.

[@thenerdyadventuresofcore9661]

History teacher here. I also maybe have G.W.'s signature tatooed on my arm... Truly unfathomable that somebody laid a hand on his head. To be that person, or to be in that families lineage... Amazing.

[@J.B.z_BBQ]

George Washington is my second cousin eight times removed. My grandmother on my father side was Mabel Jane Wright, her direct sixth great grand father was Major Francis Wright, and he married George Washington’s great aunt (Anne Pope Washington), she was the sister of George Washington‘s grandfather. Thus, making George Washington my second cousin eight times removed. My ninth great grandfather (Thomas “The Immigrant” Blodgett) arrived in Massachusetts in 1635 with his wife and two young sons from London England. Thomas the immigrant Blodgett was the founding father of the entire Blodgett family in America. All documentation shows that there were well over 100 BLODGETT’s that fought in the revolutionary war alone. My first cousin seven times removed (Samuel Blodgett) put up $10,000 from his own pocket to help build the foundation of the capital and George Washington’s home. He was a good friend and correspondent of George Washington.

[@sallybrown4947]

Thank God Washington can't see what the USA has turned into in 2023. He would never stop throwing up!

[@annmatthews196]

I'm thinking that he actually DOES see it, and he's praying that we off our asses and stand up for saving AMERICA

[@johnsebesta7351]

You are absolutely correct. If George Washington was alive today, he would have been arrested and convicted by the Democratic Party. They would have imprisoned him on having slaves and reading the Bible to much among some lies that they would have created.

[@AviatorJohn70]

Imagine him seeing a moron like Trump become President.

[@dguy0386]

given the troubles America had even in his own time, he would be sad but not exactly surprised

[@bluewolf4915]

The long lost Republic, replaced by a sham of a democracy destine to fail.

[@glendapeterson1180]

You did superb research on this incident. I wasn't aware Washington had ever been disturbed. Somehow it seems a bit disrespectful, but it's amazing that they were able to touch the body after so many years. I hope the man I consider one of the greatest to ever live will now be left in peace.

[@Error_404_Account_Deleted]

Mt Vernon is great to visit. And the cafe is darn good too.

[@inhale.exhale.2527]

being 63, 1837, 1858 and 1863 were merely 123, 102 and 97 years before my birth. how things have changed in these intervening years! stunning.

[@JohnAllen-gg1oz]

As a person of 80 years I can attest to how short those years are.

[@KevinMaloneysmilingthrutherain]

Amazing discovery. Thank you for sharing this with us. The state of our current nation makes me shudder as to what our Countries founding father may be lamenting in his eternal state.

[@MichaelJohnson-gi3qo]

What an interesting facet of the American Civil War. The concept of national treasures and relics, more importantly the "ownership", care and the curation of these relics. It never crossed my mind. Something that should be periodically evaluated and updated as needed. Thank you for your research.

[@jbos5107]

Thank you Ron. You just took me out of my miseries. I've got some catching up to do on your channel. You deserve so many more subs!

[@rickb5946]

Excellent video!! So well done. I recall a Readers Digest story written by a man who was present when they moved Abraham Lincoin to his memorial. I was a boy, so the Readers Digest must have published the story in the early 1960s. Reminds me so much of this story!.

[@JasonIsOverHere]

John Augustine Washington III is buried in Charles Town, WV along with multiple other Washington family members. There are more Washington family members buried in Jefferson County, WV than anywhere else. Over 70 in the Zion Episcopal Church graveyard.

[@elle_lovesgizmo]

I'm a first time viewer & you've got me hooked. The detail in explaining the background, not to mention the extensive research you did & told it in such a way for anyone to understand. History is my most loved of learning, especially the Revolutionary War up to the Civil War being my favorite. Since you've talked about Washington, I thought it would be nice if you could do an episode of his farewell speech & his fears he had for the future.

[@jeanniedavis7951]

I'm a first time viewer. Fascinating. I'm hooked. Thank you 😊

[@gregoryboyd7176]

An outstanding presentation of a little-known history! In my own collections I have a copy of the 1785 life mask Jean Antoine Houdon took of Washington's face at Mount Vernon and it's clear how much the renowned artist altered that face into the one we know today. In life, Washington had a noticeable scar below his right eye so significant that it must've impaired his vision to some degree, the result of a wound he possibly received in battle. Also obvious is a shallow chin, less prominent brow and a more curved nose... all of which were "corrected" when Houdon later sculpted the official portrait of Washington that other artists used as models for their own paintings... and the familiar image that has been passed down ever since!

[@debbiewilson9712]

Is that true to life image available online? I.e. is there anyway to see what he actually looked like according ro that mask?

[@gregoryboyd7176]

Google "1785 Washington life mask" and among the many versions there you'll find images of the unaltered original even though they don't clearly show how significant the scarring was under the General's eye. I'd be happy to post my own pics but am unable to do so here. In total I have 14 life masks in my collection that are all hung to show the subject's actual height in life... and they always incite lively conversation among my visitors!@@debbiewilson9712

[@savanahmclary4465]

May George Washington Rest in Peace, forever.

[@jameslalumandier9797]

Great episode. When I visited Mount Vernon I was a little disappointed to find that George wasn't present in the family tombs in the back of the property but I think there was a plaque that said he had been there but was subsequently moved elsewhere. It's nice to hear the details as available to this moment in history.

[@kaddyd1815]

Thank you so much for this …..having toured Mt. Vernon a few times, I was aware that Washington was moved from the original tomb to the much more befitting tomb where he lies today but I was unaware of any of the details you have discovered.

[@delstanley1349]

If the above letter was written in Dec 1863 then it would have been four score and seven years since the nation was independent, or only a few weeks after Lincoln had delivered his famous Gettysburg address.

[@RVail623]

West Virginia was admitted to the Union on June 20, 1863, just 2 weeks before the Battle of Gettysburg. The original Federal District of Columbia was comprised of land areas donated semi-equally by both Maryland & Virginia, of a square-shape 10 miles on each side, totaling 100 square miles. The Virginia segment south of the Potomac River (including the City of Alexandria) was returned back to the political control of Virginia in 1846.

[@erichimes3062]

I never knew that

[@KCCardCo]

It would be interesting if someone, someday finds a sketch of this description. This is a very interesting and important presentation and the room you're in makes it better.

[@elkhunterbill5087]

Thank you for bringing this story to us!

[@rickbishop3426]

Just visited Mount Vernon last weekend (again). Excellent news and reporting.

[@StephenA.Gilford]

As you mentioned, Benjamin Silliman was a highly respected chemist. He taught at Yale where one of the colleges there is named after him. Yale has an extraordinarily good archive about its own history. I would be surprised if they were not able to offer you a substantial sample of Silliman's handwriting for you to compare and perhaps nail down the identity of the letter writer.

[@Poppy_love59]

Thanks for posting this here at KZbin for us all to see !

[@rainedevries3451]

This video was suggested by YT and I am thankful for it doing so. This was fascinating to learn about, and I thank you for sharing your research!

[@mark1mer]

Terrific Video! Thank you for this. I picked it up because I was looking for George Washington videos. I recently moved to Northern Virginia and was preparing to visit Mt. Vernon in the spring. But... this video gave me the opportunity to find your channel, and to enjoy and learn and benefit from your knowledge and work.

[@campbeja001]

You did a nice job describing a little reported event in history. Your telling of the story was fascinating. Thank you. I am sure Washington if he had lived up to the civil war era would have seen the error and cruelty of slavery. His memory and legacy belongs to the entire country. I doubt he would have wanted to see the great country he defended, divided

[@66smithra]

So stop trying to "divide" it and bringing up slavery every time George Washington is mentioned. Slavery was common for thousands of years up to that point. Get over it.

[@leighc2982]

Why do think Washington wished his slaves to be freed upon his death??

[@leighc2982]

​@@66smithraAnd is still practiced in the modern world.

[@avengingemmapeel]

Please note that the slaves he owned were freed upon his death as stipulated in hs will.

[@diriklolkus5065]

Thanks!

[@TheAntHill184]

Thank you for making this video and presenting the evidence in an unbiased way and manor. I hope you continue to do so. Present the evidence wherever that leads and open new (to us) doors of history as it was and is. I’ll be referring your channel to others, homeschoolers included.

[@peggywilliams2222]

I lived in Fredericksburg Washington’s childhood home was Ferry Farm (on the Rappahanock River.) School groups statewide toured it every year. His adult home is Mount Vernon (on the Potomac River) just outside D.C. Both are worthy of visiting.

[@coniwatson9512]

Thank you . Descendent of George Hume who spent 2 yrs teaching young George Washington as apprentice land surveyor. This was hard going into backwoods of the time. If you check George Hume of Wedderburn bio. he was exiled to colonies for 1715 Jacobite uprising. Maybe over campfire they discussed being a rebel against the British. They had to travel miles.

[@elizabethguenther7319]

Crystal Bridges art museum in Bentonville, AR had a traveling exhibit containing some original surveyor letters Washington wrote during that time.

[@chuckyoneill9029]

That was great our country is still young from Philadelphia, liked and subscribed and shared.

[@leighc2982]

I remember being told of the disinterment and President Washington's remains being put into a new sarcophagus when I visited Mount Vernon in the late 1980's.

[@dj-kq4fz]

Thanks! Washington is, to me, the most fascinating person of the era. Everything I learn just amazes me more about the man and his place in history.

[@catherinegrillos8739]

What an incredible find!

[@normawingo5116]

What a happy experience to find you and this snapshot of history in my rolling list today. I enjoyed this immensely. I wish I was an excellent researcher like you. Thank you

[@lisarobertson8485]

My family visited Mt. Vernon in 1971. I was just a teenager but clearly remember learning that Washington was originally buried in a small family crypt. At that time, we could freely walk about the property and followed a path that took us to his original family tomb. I only wish that I had taken a picture of it. I took thought it was interesting but the original crypt was less impressive.

[@marshabaker6153]

That ws really interesting! Thank you so much for all your hard work!

[@jeffcooley7577]

Important work. Thank you for bringing back to our collective consciences.

[@steverid]

Fantastic video sir. I am lucky enough to live 10 minutes from Washington's Mount Vernon estate. I'm a charter member as well and get to attend events not open to the public. I'm always in awe of the entire estate while there. It's a beautiful place.

[@JamesAdams-ev6fc]

I can think of some reasons as to why Washington's body would have been well preserved in 1837. Suffusing the corpse with arsenic, for example, would have killed off any organisms present. By this I mean no disrespect, of course: the ideas of the first president, which Liberty Fund has assembled (George Washington: A Collection, edited by W.B. Allen), were far in advance of his time. The combination of physical courage, moral character, and intelligence made him "first in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen."

[@caittails]

Man, newspapers sure aren’t what they used to be. 😂 This was SO COOL to learn! I love these little bits of history that no one knows about because they’re not big enough to make it into textbooks, but were clearly important to the people who lived through them. It really makes you think about what “big” things to us are happening now that history might not care about at all.

[@dresqueda]

Interesting, additional information on Washington. Thanks for sharing this!

[@mikeinla6922]

Great story, thank you. I recommend a visit to Mount Vernon if you get a chance.

[@GregJGreen]

Thanks for your vid, very interesting. Washington has been my favorite founding father since childhood.

[@robertpuleo1203]

Thank You for sharing this information. I have always wondered how our founding fathers were laid to rest and how they were dressed

[@tonyromano5133]

Just stumbled across this channel, and as a big civil war buff I look forward to reviewing past and enjoying future videos.

[@andretremblay]

Fascinating. Thank you!

[@BruceDaughtry]

I saw pieces of George Washington's original wooded casket while touring the Mason's museum in Philadelphia. Prior to that tour, I had no idea that Washington had been reinterred.

[@Rockhound6165]

We visited Mount Vernon this summer and I was moved when we visited George & Martha's tomb.

[@NurseEmilie]

Extremely interesting. Thank you for this wonderful video.

[@billc3278]

I recall the History Channel (When it was still History), describing a similar scene with Lincoln around 1900 before he was finally placed in the current site.

[@JB-zo7ln]

Mr. Coddington, are you by any chance the brother or a relative of Mr. Robert Coddington? If so, I greatly appreciate his historical videos of New York city. Thank you for this most wonderful video of our history. Just incredible.

[@lifeonthecivilwarresearchtrail]

Not to my knowledge! My great-great grandfather lived in the city, and so we may be related as cousins.

[@jamesseaman2950]

Any person who has been to George Washington's Mount Vernon estate would know that his body had been moved long after his death. The old burial vault for the Washington family is on the walking tour, as is the new family tomb to which all the family's remains were eventually moved. This is the first time I've heard a description of event.

[@ref6122]

If the disinterment took place 10 years later they possibly could have photographed the body.We would then have more complete historical connection with the father of our country.

[@delstanley1349]

It is unlikely they would have photographed the body even if they had working cameras around. Lincoln's body was exhumed in 1901, 36 years after he was assassinated. There were about two dozen or so witnesses. The story was in one of the national magazines (Look, Life?), and an account by a young man, Fleetwood Linley, who was a witness was also reported. Linley said that Lincoln's face was chalky white, and his suit had mildewed. The above description of Washington was 38 years after death, and that of Lincoln was 36 years. Maybe the countenance on Washington's face was more pleasant than that of Lincoln, BUT Washington wasn't shot in the head either. There are photographs of workers lifting and handling Lincoln's coffin, but none show the actual body. There are some photographs I seem to recall of Lincoln's body shortly after death on a bed, but many sources say it is a hoax. In any event I doubt if they would have taken any pics of Washington's exhumed body years after death. I think general photos were taken/available of anyone (in France) as early as the late 1820s, and a photo "could have been" by 1837. I think!

[@Hiker33]

The first documented deguerotypes taken in the US were in 1839-1840, so very close to being possible.

[@robinrobyn1714]

If the disinterment took place 20 years earlier, they could have photographed the body. You must be ignorant of history.

[@theresadecker2597]

so rude

[@thimsile]

A picture of him in a decomposing state to be burned into the memories of all Americans is not the way he should be portrayed and remembered. This is the antithesis of allowing a late great to 'rest in peace'. Imagine 3 decades after your death, you are dug up and photos are taken of you decomposing face, a spectacle for the world to see. The thought of it happening after I go sickens me.

[@americanborn3151]

Man, can you imagine being present on that day.

[@dianefiske-foy4717]

WOW‼️ Very interesting. I enjoyed hearing this letter and story a whole lot 👩🏻‍🏫🥰‼️

[@wandaarnt234]

A History Lover I thank you watching from Pennsylvania 🙏🙏🙏🎚🎚🎚🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@bonnielucas3244]

What an unbelievably great way with words. Outstanding video

[@michaeld5770]

Loved this presentation. Thanks.😉

[@randyjon224]

Fascinating story, thank you kindly. I've never been to Mt. Vernon, but it's been on my bucket list and after seeing this, I'll be taking a road trip next summer. Thanks again. 🇺🇸

[@patrickmurawski400]

It would be a shame for him to see what his country has become!!!!

[@FrankIsAlwaysRight]

Why? Would he be upset that slavery is outlawed?

[@scottsand2317]

@@FrankIsAlwaysRightI’d say we are past that and going into uncharted and very turbulent times.

[@rhondahewitt8196]

But thankfully there are still true American patriots that still hold original views as founding Fathers. God Bless America.

[@JohnDoe-fn7ml]

Very cool!!… thank you for sharing. History especially unknown history is fascinating.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸