08/03/2026
A great article!
Have you had the chance to see the newly released film, "Young Washington?" Michelle Arcari Rose, Executive Director of Washington Heritage Museums, has penned a compelling and insightful op-ed titled, "Setting the Record Straight: Mary Ball Washington Deserves Better." This thought-provoking piece was published in the Fredericksburg Free-Lance Star on Sunday, July 5th. We invite you to read the letter below - we welcome your thoughts and feedback!
"Hollywood has a history of turning women of the founding era into props in their sons’ and husbands’ stories. The new film Young Washington (opening July 3) is, sadly, no exception. Despite an all-star cast and an inspirational story, the portrayal of George Washington’s mother, Mary, as cold and illiterate is a profound disservice to one of Colonial America's most remarkable figures—and to the history of our country as we approach our 250th anniversary.
The real Mary Ball Washington was not a backwater figure hovering at the edge of her son's greatness. She was, by any honest measure, an extraordinary woman, especially for her time . . ." Read the entire op-ed at the following link:
https://www.washingtonheritagemuseums.org/in-the-news