A collection of United States Historical Society “Great American Women” is on display upstairs in the Botetourt Museum of History & Culture in Fincastle. There are 11 prominent historical figurines that were donated out of the series of 12. They were made from 1998 to 1999 and are now discontinued. Each one is 6 inches tall and 2-1/2 inches at the base. The detailed porcelain figures have fabric and lace added to complete their attire. The costumes reflect the culture of their time in history.
Shown is Martha Custis Washington (1731-1802), who was married to George Washington on January 24, 1759, after becoming a widow. Not shown are the purple shoes she wore on her wedding day. Martha was known for her help during the Revolutionary War. She took up residence with her husband at Washington’s encampments for extended periods of time helping him and the soldiers. After Washington became the first President in 1789 Martha set the standard for arranging major social events as “Lady Washington. ” Feb. 16 was President’s Day.
~ Botetourt Museum of History & Culture
