CRP's Blog

“For all that is known about George Washington, Philip Smucker finds the untold story. Here is the muscular Washington, galloping through the Virginia woods, chasing after foxes, charging fearlessly through musket fire. . . Smucker brings to life the man as he was. A delightful tale.”

—Tom Gjelton, NPR Senior Correspondent, author of Nation of Nations

Long before George Washington was a president or a general, he was a sportsman. His horseback riding abilities and prowess were legendary in his time, and he excelled in nearly every kind of action he performed, including dancing, throwing, fencing, fishing and even card playing. Using his talents and ambitions—and the centuries-old British idea of sport—to propel him into positions of leadership and influence, Washington eventually became the model of sportsmanship and manners for a new and highly competitive country.

A fresh perspective on Washington’s ascent through prowess and savvy, Riding with George: Sportsmanship & Chivalry in the Making of America’s First President by Philip G. Smucker presents Washington as an advocate for sound competition, honor, fair play and impeccable manners. Smucker, a fifth-great grandnephew of Washington, culls for the first time the related papers, verified reports and striking vignettes to weave an illuminating contribution to our understanding of the first President’s astounding accomplishments.

At six feet two inches and with a penchant for rambunctious horse riding, Washington’s memorable performances both on the hunting field and the battlefield helped crystallize his contribution to our modern ideas about athleticism today. Likewise, colonial society tended to reward men who were socially adept, graceful and fair at play. Washington’s Old World chivalry thus propelled him to become a model of right action and good manners for a fledgling nation.

Through thoughtfully collected historical research and anecdotes, Smucker seeks insights into this lesser-known side of George from scholars, relatives, historical impersonators, foxhunters and even dance and fencing instructors. A truly “boots-in-stirrups” account, Riding with George tells the overdue story of Washington’s secrets to fame and leadership.

About the Author:

Philip G. Smucker is a journalist, professor and research fellow at the National Library for the Study of George Washington at Mount Vernon, and the author of My Brother, My Enemy and Al Qaeda’s Great Escape. He lives in Alexandria, Virginia and Afghanistan.

 Order your copy!

(Also available in e-book)