Released on: July 10, 2008, 9:31 am

Press Release Author: Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens

Industry: Entertainment

Press Release Summary: George Washington\'s Distillery is the site of a Whiskey
Rebellion on August 9th & 10th!

Press Release Body: MOUNT VERNON, Va. - The Whiskey Rebellion controversy comes to
Historic Mount Vernon for the first time with dramatic performances, a military
encampment, militia drilling, music, open-hearth cooking, and costumed
demonstrations at George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill.

On August 9-10, two days after George Washington issued a proclamation that called
out the militia to enforce the law and quell the rebellion in Pennsylvania, visitors
will see young men debating at the Gristmill whether to take up arms. See what
happens when the irascible miller tries to convince them to stay home. Fast forward
in time and meet Washington's distiller, who reflects five years after the rebellion
on how the Whiskey Rebellion solidified the laws of the country. Tour the Gristmill
and Distillery as costumed workers operate both buildings. Enjoy tastes of food made
from cornmeal, and purchase your own meal ground at the Gristmill. Activities are
included in regular admission to George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill, located
three miles from the main Mount Vernon Estate: $4 for adults; $2 youth ages 6-11;
free for children ages 5 and younger.

When President George Washington ordered up militia forces in 1794 to enforce
taxation on whiskey distillers in Pennsylvania, it was one of the first tests of
federal authority in U.S. history. The defense of the constitutional powers of the
federal government was at stake, and gristmills, which served as community centers
in the 18th century, would have been the setting for debate when people took their
grain to be ground and also exchanged information.
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Events, programs, and activities are subject to change.
Public Information: 703-780-2000; 703-799-8697 (TDD); MountVernon.org


Web Site: http://www.MountVernon.org

Contact Details: Mount Vernon Estate & Gardens
PO Box 110

Public information:
(703) 780-2000
info@mountvernon.org