Washington’s Mother
Molly Ball of Virginia, Molly Ball with hair like flax and cheeks like mayblossoms,—as she is described in the fragment of a quaint old letter,—married Augustine Washington of Virginia, and became the mother of George Washington.
Washington was like his mother in qualities of character. He had her strength of will, love of truth, firm purpose, high sense of duty, dignity, and reverence.
All these noble qualities were strengthened and made practical by her careful education and discipline.
When he became great, she was quietly proud of him. And when people spoke warmly of his glory and success, she would say:—
“But, my good sirs, here is too much flattery. Still, George will not forget the lessons I early taught him. He will not forget himself, though he is the subject of so much praise.”
When she was informed by special messenger that Cornwallis had surrendered, she exclaimed:
“Thank God! war will now be ended, and peace, Independence, and happiness, bless our Country!”
After the surrender of Cornwallis, Washington visited his mother at Fredericksburg, where she was living in her own little house. She was about seventy-five years old.
He reached Fredericksburg surrounded by his numerous and brilliant suite. He dismounted, and sent to inquire when it would be her pleasure to receive him.
Afoot and alone, he walked to her house. She was by herself, employed in a household task, when she was told that the victor-chief was waiting at her door. She bade him welcome by a warm embrace, calling him “George,” the dear familiar name of his childhood.
She spoke to him of old times and old friends, but of his glory, not one word.
Meanwhile, in the town of Fredericksburg there was excitement and rejoicing. The place was crowded with foreign and American officers. Gentlemen from miles around were hastening into town to congratulate the conquerors of Yorktown.
The citizens got up a splendid ball in Washington’s honour, to which his mother was specially invited.
The foreign officers were eager to meet their Chief’s mother. They had heard of her remarkable character. They expected to see her enter the ballroom in glittering attire, clad in rich brocades, like the noble ladies of Europe.
How surprised they were, when, leaning on her son’s arm, she entered dressed simply. She was dignified and imposing. She received quietly all the compliments and attentions showered upon her. At an early hour she wished the company much pleasure, saying that it was time for old folk to be in bed.
She retired leaning on the arm of her son.
“If such are the matrons in America,” exclaimed the foreign officers, “well may she boast of illustrious sons!”
George Washington Parke Custis and Other Sources