George Washington House, Bridgetown (must see)

The George Washington House is an 18th-century plantation home that once hosted the man who would later become the first President of the United States. Back in 1751, at the age of 19, Washington stayed for two months in this house, known back then as Bush House (probably due to its location on Bush Hill in the historic Garrison area of Bridgetown).

One thing that makes this property unique, though, is more of a statement about Washington's life than the house itself. Indeed, this is the only foreign place that Washington ever visited during his lifetime outside of colonial America.

The two-story building is entirely restored and decorated as it would have been during Washington's stay. As a result, you can see day-to-day period furnishings like beds with mosquito netting, chairs, and basic crockery and cutlery. From these items, you can gain some fascinating insights into how people made do during that time.

The second floor hosts a more traditional museum, with items described by audio and visual aids. One display recounts Washington's fight with smallpox while on the island and the third-generation Barbadian doctor who treated him and restored him to health.

Additionally, the museum is home to countless artifacts of island life. There, you'll find reminders of the days of slavery, which was still practiced on the island during Washington's visit. Among these, you'll see barbed-neck collars, spiked manacles, and agricultural tools like sickles and cane bills.

The house itself has been remodeled over the years. When Washington visited, it was only one level. The second story was added in 1845, and it was impossible to remove it when the home was renovated and restored in 2007.

Presently, the property is owned and maintained by the Barbados National Trust. During a visit to the island in 1997, US President Bill Clinton presented a plaque commemorating Washington's visit to the island.