Martha Washington

It's the birthday of Martha Washington, born on this day in 1731. 
 
The kitchen garden at Mount Vernon was said to have been Martha Washington's personal pride.
 
Surrounded by 4-inch-brick walls her garden was protected and it also enjoyed a bit of a microclimate. In addition to the walls, there were pear trees and apple trees that lined the walkways and provided a windbreaker for the vegetables.
 
There was even a cistern placed in the center of the garden; providing the garden with a steady supply of water.
 
One expert stated,

"Mrs. Washington had a passion for gardening and her summer residence at the Hasbrouck house allowed her to indulge in it."

One admirer said,

"Under her skillful hands, bloomed a garden like the desert of the Scriptures."