Fredericksburg, Va. — Mary Ball Washington, mother of President George Washington, died from “a malignancy of the breast.” We know today that it was breast cancer.
Washington Heritage Museums and the Imaging Center for Women have partnered during Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October to raise awareness about breast cancer, and promote regular health exams and care. The community is invited to participate in the Mary’s Ribbons, Tie One On display.
The white picket fence outside Mary Washington House at 1200 Charles St. in Fredericksburg is adorned with pink ribbons to honor and remember those who have faced the struggles of breast cancer.
“While many diseases have been eradicated or brought under control since Mary Washington’s time, breast cancer continues to impact the lives of many each year,” said Anne Darron, executive director of Washington Heritage Museums, of which Mary Washington House is part.
Guests are encouraged to tie a ribbon to the fence of Mary Washington House, and add the honoree’s name to the Book of Honor and Remembrance. Ribbons are available at no charge during tour hours, which through October 31 are 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Saturday, and 12 – 4 p.m. Sunday. Ribbons are also available at Medical Imaging of Fredericksburg locations.
The museum is hosting a Mary’s Ribbons Tie One On closing event — Luminarias in the Garden — from 6 – 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28. Guests will sample craft beer, and see the garden illuminated with luminarias. The cost is $10 for WHM members, $15 for non-members.
Mary Washington lived for 17 years in her Fredericksburg home on Charles Street. Her son George purchased it for her.
