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George Washington's Initials
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According to legend, the youthful, George Washington, engaged by Lord Fairfax, proprietor of the Northern Neck of Virginia, surveyed the surrounding acreage of Natural Bridge. During his visit, he scaled some 23 feet up the left wall of the bridge and carved his initials "G.W.", which may still be seen today.
On July 5, 1774, Thomas Jefferson purchased Natural Bridge and 157 surrounding acres from King George III of England for the "sum of twenty shillings of good and lawful money." (about $2.40). Jefferson visited the bridge often, surveyed the area, and even drew a map in his own hand. In 1803, two years after becoming the President of the United States, he constructed a two room cabin on the grounds.
Source: Park Sign
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