In a stunning archaeological discovery, Mount Vernon officials announced on Thursday the unearthing of a treasure trove of preserved cherries at George Washington's historical estate. Buried deep in the cellar of Washington's Mount Vernon home were 35 glass bottles containing cherries, with 29 of them found intact.

The cherries, along with gooseberries and currants, were stored in five underground pits in the mansion's cellar and had been hidden for approximately 250 years. The remarkable find occurred during ongoing renovation projects at Mount Vernon, just a few weeks after two bottles were initially discovered in April.

Mount Vernon President, Doug Bradburn, expressed his awe at the unexpected archaeological revelation, stating, "Never in our wildest dreams did we imagine this spectacular discovery."

The significance of this find extends beyond the preserved fruit itself, as it sheds light on the culinary practices employed by the enslaved people who managed the food preparations at Mount Vernon. The artifacts underscore the knowledge and skill of those responsible for taking fruits from tree to table, including Doll, the cook brought to Mount Vernon by Martha Washington in 1759.

Mount Vernon officials believe that the cherries and their pristine condition offer a rare opportunity to learn more about the 18th-century environment, plantation foodways, and the origins of American cuisine. Principal archaeologist, Jason Boroughs, highlighted the quality of the preserved bottles, revealing intact fruit, pits, and pulp.

To further delve into the historical significance of this discovery, researchers plan to conduct DNA extraction and possible germination using the 54 cherry pits and 23 stems found within the preserved bottles.

The context surrounding this find adds to its intrigue. These hidden artifacts likely remained undisturbed since before the American Revolution and were possibly forgotten when George Washington left Mount Vernon to lead the Continental Army, according to Bradburn.

As the meticulous analysis of the preserved cherries and their containers continues, it is clear that this discovery at Mount Vernon provides a unique glimpse into the past, offering valuable insights into plantation life, culinary practices, and the early origins of American cuisine.