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George Washington House: A Journey into 18th-Century Barbados

Step back in time at the beautifully restored George Washington House, the only place he lived outside the USA, in historic Bridgetown, Barbados.

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Explore the beautifully restored George Washington House, the only residence outside the United States where the first U.S. President once lived. This historic site offers a glimpse into 18th-century Barbadian life and Washington's formative experiences during his 1751 visit.

A brief summary to George Washington House

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore the house, museum, and Garrison Tunnels.
  • Take advantage of the self-guided tour with audio devices available in six languages.
  • Check out the 16-minute docudrama in the air-conditioned cinema for an overview of Washington's visit.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, take a bus from the Fairchild Street Terminal towards the Garrison Historic Area. Any bus heading towards Hastings will also get you close. The fare is BBD 3.50. Disembark at the Garrison Historic Area stop, and it's a short walk to George Washington House.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown. A short taxi ride from the city center to George Washington House will cost approximately BBD 20-34. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Walking

    If you are in Bridgetown, walking to George Washington House is an option. Head towards George Washington Boulevard, which is approximately a 45-minute walk from the main commercial area. Follow local signs or ask for directions.

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Discover more about George Washington House

George Washington House, nestled in the Garrison Historic Area of Bridgetown, Barbados, offers a unique window into the 18th century and a significant chapter in the life of a young George Washington. Built around 1717, this Georgian-style mansion served as the residence for George and his half-brother Lawrence Washington during their stay in 1751. Barbados was the only country George Washington ever visited outside of colonial America. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored rooms, furnished to reflect a typical, yet not lavish, plantation residence of the mid-18th century. The museum on the upper floor delves into the rich cultural heritage of the island during this era, when Bridgetown rivaled Boston and London in importance. Exhibits also shed light on the darker aspects of plantation life, including the practice of slavery. A highlight is the access to a section of the Garrison Tunnels, rediscovered in 2011, which were originally built for drainage but later used as escape routes for the British military. George Washington's time in Barbados, though brief, profoundly impacted his future. He studied the island's military defenses and innovative agricultural techniques, experiences that broadened his understanding of colonial life and influenced his later leadership. The house stands as a testament to the shared history between Barbados and the United States, offering an engaging and educational experience for all.

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