But Fraser’s diligent research has resulted in a more comprehensive understanding of the nation’s first first lady - and through her important story, a fuller sense of the nation’s first president. While many books have chronicled George Washington’s life and public service, no other has so thoroughly examined the marriage bonds between him and his wife.įew primary sources exist on the life of Martha Washington, who destroyed all but one of the couple’s personal letters. “The Washingtons” has drawn widespread praise from scholars and critics. Since 2005 the prize has been one of the largest literary awards, which honors the best new works about the nation’s founding, especially those that engage a broad public audience. This is an accolade I shall long treasure.”Ĭonferred by Washington College, the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, and George Washington’s Mount Vernon, the award was presented to Fraser on May 25 at a black-tie gala at the Mount Vernon estate. Fraser was awarded the $50,000 prize for her book, “The Washingtons: George and Martha, ‘Join’d by Friendship, Crown’d by Love.’”Ī noted biographer whose work has focused on the women behind great men of history, Fraser says: “I feel greatly the honor that has been accorded ‘The Washingtons,’ as George and Martha’s marriage was an inspiring partnership to chart. Congratulations to author Flora Fraser, winner of the 2016 George Washington Prize.

The washingtons by flora fraser