MEDIA Show Media Credit: Transferred to the Mount Vernon Ladies' Association through the generosity of John Augustine Washington III, 1860. Conservation courtesy of Harry and Erika Lister.Original Author: Possibly Thomas FentonCreated: ca. 1784–1788Medium: Copper alloy house bellHouse Bell to Summon WorkersThis copper alloy bell dates to circa 1784–1788 and was part of the bell system at the Mount Vernon mansion that enabled George Washington and his family to summon enslaved laborers and white overseers.FEATURED INGeorge Washington and SlaverySound in Colonial VirginiaEnslaved Community at Mount VernonEnslaved House Servants