Skip to main content

Primary sourceLetter12 September 1758

To Mrs. George William Fairfax, 12 September 1758

George Washington · 12 September 1758

A personal letter from George Washington expressing his feelings prior to his marriage.

This letter provides a personal glimpse into Washington's emotions and relationships before his marriage.

Source: Internet Archive

About this source

What it is

This letter, dated 12 September 1758, was written by George Washington to Mrs. George William Fairfax while he was stationed at Fort Cumberland. It reflects his personal feelings and connections before his marriage to Martha Custis.

Why it matters

The letter offers a rare glimpse into Washington's emotional life, revealing his affections and the complexities of personal relationships during a formative period in his life. It highlights the human side of a figure often viewed primarily through a political lens.

Look closer

  • What does this letter reveal about Washington's personal relationships before his public life began?
  • How does the tone of this letter differ from his official correspondence?
  • What might this letter suggest about the societal norms of the time regarding relationships?

This letter is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of George Washington on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.

Ready when you are

Start chatting with George Washington now.

20 messages free · No credit card · Available in 50+ languages.