George Washington’s House
George Washington House (The Garrison Savannah, Bridgetown, St. Michael) – the man who became America’s first president, George Washington, spent two months here as a young man in 1751. While there, he caught smallpox and was cured by local doctors’ innovative treatment. His resulting immunity enabled him to continue leading his revolution when others were falling prey to the disease. Visiting this house gives visitors insight on life in Barbados during the 18th century.
The district this house is located in is historically important, beautiful, and has other heritage attractions in easy walking distance. A cheerful café provides refreshments. According to Barbados National Trust one-time Director, Penny Hynam, Washington was not the only U.S. Revolution-period individuals with roots in Barbados. About 7 million Americans have their roots in Barbados (early Barbadians left to settle in South Carolina in the 1660s). Two signers of the U.S. Declaration of Independence, Richard Henry Lee and Arthur Middleton, were from Barbados, and generations of Bajan Yankees, Americans of Barbadian descent, have lived in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey.