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First in the Hearts of His Countrymen
America Remembers George Washington (1732-1799)

George Washington was an American icon of mythic proportions during even his lifetime. His death in 1799 solidified that stature and plunged the nation into deep mourning. In his famous eulogy, Henry Lee, eloquently and accurately summed up the first President's role in the early republic - Washington was truly "First in war, first in peace, first in the hearts of his countrymen." So not surprisingly, Washington has been extensively celebrated in the fine and decorative arts throughout the past two centuries.

First in the Hearts of His Countrymen shows visitors just how pervasive Washington's image became as he was celebrated in his lifetime and nearly canonized by subsequent generations. Not only was his visage captured in fine paintings, it remains integral to our nation's currency, and even became a part of everyday objects such as whiskey flasks. Drawn primarily from the Chrysler's Permanent Collection, this exhibition highlights some of the fine and decorative art objects that pay special tribute to our foremost Founding Father.

For More Information or Images Please Contact the Chrysler at (757) 664-6200 or museum@chrysler.org

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