The marker of George Washington's 281st birthday just passed, and in recognition of our nation's father, David M. Rubenstein donated $10 million to the Mt. Vernon estate. The donation was made through The Mount Vernon Ladies' Association, which is the longest-standing national preservation organization that has owned and operated the home of America's first president since the mid 1800s. 

"I hope that Americans will always keep in mind how much George Washington meant to the founding of this great nation, and how his examples of sterling character and unbiased leadership provide a timeless example for leaders of today and the future," said Rubenstein. "Mount Vernon has accepted a growing responsibility for reaching and teaching people - on all fronts, of all ages and from all walks of life."

This gift will help cover the costs of a library preservation project that will serve as a center for leadership training and academic research. The Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington is slated to open on September 27, 2013. It will hold the late president's books and papers for future research. 

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