Discovering George Washington’s Hidden Hobbies and Interests

Discovering George Washington’s Hidden Hobbies and Interests

George Washington may be justly famous as a military leader and statesman, but fewer people know about his lesser-known hobbies and interests. In this article, we will explore some of the intriguing hobbies and interests that made up this founding father’s richly-textured life.

An Avid Hunter and Fisherman

Contrary to what many may believe, George Washington loved to hunt and fish. In fact, he was an avid sportsman who spent much of his spare time pursuing his passion. Washington was a skilled hunter and even kept his own pack of hounds, which he took out on frequent hunting trips throughout Virginia. It is said that he once shot over 10,000 acres of land in just one day. For Washington, hunting was a way to unwind and clear his mind; a solitary pursuit that allowed him to connect with nature and escape the pressures of public life.

Avid Farmer

In addition to his love for hunting and fishing, George Washington was also an experienced farmer. He owned several large estates, including Mount Vernon, and was deeply involved in the day-to-day management of his properties. He was known for his experimental farm practices and was eager to try out new agricultural methods. Even after he became president, Washington continued to spend time on his farms, often rising before dawn to oversee the work of his farm laborers.

A Passion for Architecture

Another of George Washington’s hobbies was architecture. This may seem like an unlikely interest for a man known primarily for his military and political achievements, but Washington was fascinated by the ways in which a building could enhance its surroundings and convey a sense of grandeur. He supervised the construction of several buildings, including the impressive Capitol building in Richmond, Virginia. Washington spent a great deal of time studying architectural styles, reading books on the subject, and corresponding with other architects.

Avid Reader and Writer

Despite his many other interests, George Washington was also an avid reader and writer. He was known for his sharp mind and his impressive writing skills, which he employed both in his personal correspondence and in his official duties. He was an avid collector of books and took great pleasure in studying literature, history, and philosophy. Washington’s extensive reading and writing gave him a broad perspective on the world and helped him to develop the critical thinking skills that served him so well as a leader.

Conclusion

In conclusion, George Washington was much more than just a military general and political leader. He was also a man with a range of interests and hobbies, from hunting and fishing to farming and architecture. His love of learning and his pursuit of diverse interests helped him to become a well-rounded individual with a deep appreciation for the world around him. Anyone can learn from this great leader’s example and strive to achieve similar breadth of interests and depth of character.