Presidents' Day: A Celebration of History, Real Estate, and the Burst of Spring

Presidents' Day, celebrated on the third Monday in February, is a time to honor the rich history of the United States and the leaders who shaped it. It's also a time when the real estate market often sees a burst of activity as spring approaches. Let's dive into the origins of Presidents' Day, some fun facts about the holiday, and explore the homes where some of our most iconic presidents grew up.

Origins of Presidents' Day

Presidents' Day was established in 1885 to honor President George Washington's birthday, which falls on February 22nd. However, in 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the celebration to the third Monday in February, creating a three-day weekend that also honors Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is on February 12th.

Fun Facts About Presidents' Day

• Washington's birthday was on February 22, 1732, making him 282 years old if he were alive today!

• The day was initially called Washington's Birthday, but it later became known as Presidents' Day to honor all U.S. presidents.

• The holiday is often associated with sales and discounts, especially on cars and furniture.

Homes of Iconic Presidents

• Mount Vernon (George Washington): Located in Virginia, this was Washington's plantation home. Visitors can tour the mansion, gardens, and see Washington's tomb.

• Monticello (Thomas Jefferson): Designed by Thomas Jefferson himself, this masterpiece of architecture is located in Virginia. Visitors can explore the house, gardens, and the nearby University of Virginia, which Jefferson founded.

• Lincoln's Birthplace: This humble log cabin in Kentucky is where Abraham Lincoln was born. Today, it's a national historic site with a museum dedicated to the 16th president.

• Franklin D. Roosevelt's Home (Hyde Park, NY): Known as Springwood, this estate was the birthplace and lifelong home of FDR. Visitors can tour the house, gardens, and even see FDR's personal train car.

Real Estate and Presidents' Day

As spring approaches, Presidents' Day often marks the beginning of the busy real estate season. Many people take advantage of the three-day weekend to start their home search or list their properties for sale. It's a time when the real estate market sees increased activity, making it an exciting time for both buyers and sellers.

In conclusion, Presidents' Day is a celebration of history, a kick-off to the real estate market, and a time to reflect on the lives of our nation's leaders. Whether you're exploring the homes of iconic presidents or searching for your dream home, Presidents' Day offers something for everyone.