George Washington House, Bridgetown (must see)

The George Washington House is a 18th century plantation home that was occupied by the man who would become the first President of the United States. It is located in the historic Garrison area of town, on the top of Bush Hill. At the age of 19, Washington lived in the house for two months in 1751. At that time, the house was called Bush House.

One thing that makes this house unique is more of a statement about Washington's life than the house. This is the only place and the only country that Washington visited during his lifetime outside of colonial America.

The two-story house is entirely restored and decorated as it would have been during Washington's stay in 1751. As a result, you see day-to-day furnishings like beds with mosquito netting, chairs, and basic crockery and cutlery. From these items, you can gain some fascinating insights into how people made do during that time.

The second floor hosts a more traditional museum, with items described by audio and visual aids. One display recounts Washington's fight with yellow fever while on the island and the third-generation Barbadian doctor who treated him and restored him to health.

Additionally, the museum is home to countless artifacts of island life. You'll find reminders of the days of slavery, which was still practiced on the island during Washington's visit. You'll see barbed-neck collars, spiked manacles, and agricultural tools like sickles and cane bills.

The house itself has been remodeled over the years. When Washington visited, it was only one level. The second story was added in 1845, and it was impossible to remove it when the home was renovated and restored in 2007.

The George Washington House is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Allow two or three hours to see all of the exhibits and grounds. The house is owned and maintained by the Barbados National Trust. During a visit to the island in 1997, US President Bill Clinton presented a plaque commemorating Washington's visit to the island.