George Washington Birthplace National Monument, Virginia

by J. Paul Hudson

Glass.

Hundreds of pieces of broken wine bottles were found, including 11 wine bottle seals bearing the initials of George’s father, “AW”. During the 18th century only well-to-do planters imported wine bottles from England with their names or monograms stamped on the necks of the containers. Many wine-glass stems were also found, revealing the fine assortment of drinking glasses used by the Washingtons. Numerous windowpane fragments were unearthed.