Fun Facts About George Washington

Portrait of George Washington by Gilbert Stuart

George Washington was America’s first president, but did you know he was also a dog lover, a dancing pro, and even a skilled spy master? Here are six fun and little-known facts about George Washington that kids will love!

1. He Had a Lot of Pets—Including a Parrot!

Washington had over 50 dogs during his lifetime, and he even gave them funny names like Sweetlips, Vulcan, and Drunkard! He also had a pet parrot named Polly, which belonged to his wife, Martha. Some say Polly liked to squawk during important meetings!

2. He Never Lived in the White House

Even though Washington was the first U.S. president, he never lived in the White House! It wasn’t built yet when he was in office, so he lived in New York City and Philadelphia instead. The White House was completed in 1800, after Washington had already left office.

3. He Was a Great Dancer

Washington wasn’t just a great general—he was also an excellent dancer! He loved attending fancy balls and parties, and he was known for impressing people with his graceful moves on the dance floor.

4. He Had Fake Teeth—But Not Made of Wood

You might have heard that Washington had wooden teeth, but that’s a myth! His false teeth were actually made from hippopotamus ivory, gold, and even other human teeth! They were uncomfortable, but he wore them for most of his life.

5. He Helped Create a Secret Spy Ring

During the Revolutionary War, Washington set up a spy network called the Culper Ring to secretly gather information about the British. His spies used invisible ink, secret codes, and even laundry signals to send messages. It was like something out of a spy movie!

6. He Almost Became King—But Said No!

After winning the American Revolution, some people wanted Washington to become king of the United States! But Washington refused, saying that America should have a president, not a king. That’s why he is remembered as the “Father of His Country.”