APRIL 26 - JUNE 1, 2013

The Wentworth Lear Historic Houses announces the opening of "The Many Faces of George Washington." The national traveling panel examines the multidimensional, real-life man behind the myth. The Wentworth Lear Historic Houses is pleased to be the only northern New England organization to host this special exhibition in 2013. 

Through dazzling color graphics of paintings, photographs, and iconic objects from the Mount Vernon collections, “The Many Faces of George Washington” provides background and insight into our nation’s first President, a man whom many recognize but few know much about. Spanning Washington’s entire life, the exhibit focuses on the traits that made him a beloved leader and the choices that helped establish a stable democratic government. The exhibit looks at Washington’s leadership in the exhibition’s seven sections: Virginia Childhood, Risk Taker, Realistic Visionary, Wise Decision Maker, Impassioned Learner, Visionary Entrepreneur, and At Home at Mount Vernon. 

An opening reception featuring a performance by noted Tobias Lear Role Player, David Kozisek will be held for members on Thursday, April 25, 2013 from 5:30-8:00 pm. Annual membership is $25.00 for adults. To become a member and RSVP for the opening reception, please visit www.wentworthlear.org or call (603) 436-4406.

While on display at the Wentworth Lear Historic Houses, the seven panel exhibit will be augmented with demonstrations, historical artifacts and appearances by role players. The exhibition was produced by the Mount Vernon Ladies Association in conjunction with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History and was made possible by a generous grant from the F.M. Kirby Foundation. Wentworth Lear Historic Houses exhibit sponsors include Mrs. Rogers M. Doering, Piscataqua Savings, the Chandler’s Loft and People’s United Insurance Agency. 

"Tobias Lear served as George Washington's personal secretary and hosted the first President at his home in Portsmouth while serving in Washington," said Stacey Fraser deHaan, House Manager of the Wentworth Lear Historic Houses. "This historic connection between Portsmouth and President Washington makes it all the more exciting that the Wentworth Lear Historic Houses is currently the only Northern New England site to host ‘The Many Faces of George Washington’." 

The exhibition will be open to the public from April 26-June 1, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 5:00 pm (last tour leaves each day at 4:00 pm). Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for Seniors, and $5 for children (children under 5 are free) and includes access to the Wentworth Gardner and Tobias Lear houses as well as the historic warehouse. Groups interested in scheduling a visit should contact Stacey Fraser deHaan at 436-4406. 

For information on the Exhibit Lecture Series, the "The Many Faces of George Washington" exhibition or the Wentworth Lear Historic Houses, visit www.wentworthlear.org. 

About the Wentworth Lear Historic Houses

Located in the South End neighborhood of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the Wentworth Lear Historic Houses are comprised of the adjacent Wentworth-Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses. Both houses date from the mid-1700's and are classic examples of Georgian architecture. Tours are given to the public from June through October. The Wentworth-Gardner and Tobias Lear Houses Association is dedicated to preserving and enhancing its structures, collections, and grounds, and contributing to the vitality of community through education and outreach. For information, visit www.wentworthlear.org.