Sara Agnes Rice Pryor
The Mother of Washington and Her Times
"The Mother of Washington and Her Times" by Sara Agnes Rice Pryor is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life of Mary Ball Washington, the mother of George Washington, delving into her ancestry, upbringing, and the societal context in which she lived. This account aims to celebrate the oft-overlooked contributions of mothers to the legacies of their famous sons, particularly focusing on Mary Washington's life and character. The opening of the book introduces the premise that while many great men receive ample documentation of their achievements, the women who raised and nurtured them often remain in the shadows. Pryor emphasizes the absence of narratives surrounding the mothers of notable historical figures, lamenting this oversight in American history. She reflects on the importance of acknowledging these women's roles, particularly Mary Washington's, asserting that her influence was fundamental in shaping her son's character. The narrative sets the stage for a detailed exploration of Mary Washington's lineage, her early life in Virginia, and the cultural backdrop against which she raised one of the nation’s founders.